BMW Korea officially launches the premium compact SAV ‘New X1’ and the fully electric SAV ‘New iX1’ in the domestic market.

The BMW X1 has been a leading model in the compact sports activity vehicle (SAV) segment since the first generation was released worldwide in 2009, with approximately 2.7 million units sold to date. The completely redesigned third-generation New X1 offers a refined exterior and advanced interior design, along with enhanced space and driver assistance systems, providing top-tier driving experience in its class.

The New iX1, BMW’s first fully electric model in the compact segment, is now added to the lineup. With a sleek and sophisticated design optimized for aerodynamic performance, the 5th generation BMW eDrive system provides outstanding performance and a variety of convenience features, establishing a new standard for premium fully electric SAVs.

The exterior of the BMW New X1 and iX1 features a dynamic silhouette that emphasizes modernity, harmonizing smoothly sculpted body panels and elongated rooflines. The newly applied ‘L’ shaped LED daytime running lights and integrated kidney grille on the front enhance their striking presence.

The rear showcases an LED rear light design that sharply ascends at both ends, while a large diffuser positioned at the lower rear adds to the sporty impression. With active air flap control systems in the kidney grille and hidden type door handles, enhanced aerodynamic performance is achieved, boasting a drag coefficient of only 0.26Cd, ensuring agile and stable handling in all conditions.

In the front seats, a driver-centric BMW curved display combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 10.7-inch control display. Moreover, the latest BMW operating system, BMW OS 8, minimizes physical buttons while enhancing touch control and voice recognition capabilities. Together with a BMW head-up display, a new gear selector design, and a floating armrest that integrates the control panel, it completes a future-oriented interior design.

The dimensions of the BMW New X1 and New iX1 have significantly increased compared to the previous models, with a length of 55mm, a width increase of 15mm, and a height of 15-25mm, providing spacious seating and cargo capacity. The trunk capacity expands from a standard 490-540 liters up to a maximum of 1,495-1,600 liters when the rear seats are folded down, showcasing its versatility.

The BMW New X1 is available in two engine options: gasoline and diesel. The gasoline model, New X1 sDrive20i, is equipped with a BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produces a maximum output of 204 horsepower and a maximum torque of 30.6 kg·m, while the diesel model, New X1 sDrive18d, applies a BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder diesel engine that yields a maximum output of 150 horsepower and maximum torque of 36.7 kg·m. Both models feature a 7-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission for efficient and lively driving.

The New iX1 xDrive30, featuring the 5th generation BMW eDrive system, has one motor on each axle, delivering an impressive maximum output of 313 horsepower and a torque of 50.4 kg·m, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds.

Complemented by BMW’s first electric all-wheel-drive system in the premium compact segment, it ensures optimal traction and steering safety in any situation, enhancing driving enjoyment with the BMW Iconic Sound Electric, an electric vehicle sound developed by renowned film composer Hans Zimmer.

The New iX xDrive30 boasts a state-of-the-art charging software and a 66.5 kWh capacity high-voltage battery, enabling a driving range of up to 310 km on a single charge and requiring only 29 minutes for a battery charge from 10% to 80%.

Additionally, both the New X1 and New iX1 come standard with an actuator wheel slip limiting device for instant wheel slip control, while the M Sport models feature a function that automatically adjusts damper damping force based on road conditions and driving styles, allowing for even more stable and dynamic driving.

Both BMW New X1 and New iX1 are equipped with enhanced driver assistance systems as standard. The Driving Assistant includes lane-keeping assistance and stop-and-go features as standard. Additionally, a Parking Assistant Plus system, which aids in reverse steering according to the entry path and provides a surround-view feature, is also standard equipment.

Vehicle connectivity has also improved significantly. All models come with the BMW Digital Key Plus, enabling vehicle locking and unlocking, ignition, and driving without a physical key using a smartphone. Remote software upgrades keep the vehicle’s software up to date, and both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available.

Convenience features designed to support a comfortable journey for both the driver and passengers will be included. All models come with lumbar support and active massage seats in the front, while the rear seatbacks can tilt up to 12 degrees for comfy long-distance travel. Additionally, a Harman Kardon sound system, heated steering wheel, and heated seats are standard provisions.

BMW New X1 and New iX1 will be released in two trims: xLine and M Sport.

The New X1 sDrive20i xLine is priced at 58.7 million won, the New X1 sDrive20i M Sport at 63.4 million won, and the New X1 sDrive18d xLine and M Sport at 57.7 million and 62.4 million won, respectively. The New iX1 xDrive30 xLine is priced at 67.1 million won, and the New iX1 xDrive30 M Sport is listed at 69.5 million won. With government subsidies, different regions can receive electric vehicle subsidies of up to 7.9 million won for the New iX1. (Prices include VAT and are based on the individual consumption tax rate of 3.5%)

Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr