Within the scope of the special event, the 2022 BMW X1, which we had the chance to get behind the wheel for a short time, gave the messages of what it would bring to the asphalt.
After models such as the 2 Series Active Tourer and the facelifted 3 Series, one of the important names that BMW has included in its Turkey lists this year is the new X1. The third generation, which we had the opportunity to come together as part of a special event held recently, brings together the current transformation dynamics of the brand with its own perspective. The 2022 BMW X1 product range, which is much bolder and more assertive when viewed from the outside, carries dynamics that raise the quality to a higher level on the cockpit side. The models that entered Turkey with X-Line and M Sport equipment packages are capable of responding to two different types of users beyond expectations.
2022 BMW X1 on paper
With the third generation, we come across improvements that will directly affect the user experience in the X1 product range. We would like to give place to the differences here first through the interior living space. The new X1 also stands out with its larger dimensions compared to the previous generation. Compared to the previous generation, we have a car 53 millimeters longer, 24 millimeters wider and 44 millimeters taller. This change in the body dimensions of the new BMW X1 also shows itself in the living area. The wheelbase, which has been increased by 22 millimeters, is felt seriously at the rear. The luggage volume, which has increased by 35 liters compared to the previous generation and reached 540 liters in total, is sufficient for such a model. When the sliding rear seats are folded down, there is a loading space of up to 1600 liters.
The cockpit structure of the new model group is parallel to the 2 Series Active Tourer. Here, there is a layout where we can see the expressions of the design approach that brings to mind the brand’s “Space Age” movement. The center console, where the new generation iDrive control panels are located, gives the effect of standing still when viewed from different angles. The positioning of the door handles on the end sections independently from the body is enjoyable both in terms of appearance and complementarity. The section where the driver and multimedia screens are located is completely free of physical keys. The combination of the 10.25-inch display screen and the 10.7-inch entertainment system definitely supports the premium feel, considering the visual richness. In this scheme, the fact that air conditioner controls cannot be provided via a physical button can be seen as an opposite approach for some users.
In the new generation, the material quality has also been increased. Although the X1 is placed in the background in terms of quality perception when placed side by side with the 3 Series, it definitely meets the expectations. As a matter of fact, you will encounter in the hardware list; BMW Head-Up Display, Adaptive LED Headlights, electrically adjustable heated front seats, HIFI/Harman-Kardon Sound System, Panoramic Glass Roof, Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant do not leave the new X1 behind among the top models of the family. In addition to all these standard equipment, during the launch process; Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Plus, Comfort Access System and Wireless Charging System equipment are available in all cars.
Codes of exterior design
BMW’s new design identity has been at the center of discussions for a long time. The new kidney grill approach, which has reached gigantic dimensions, especially in models such as the 7 Series and X7, still divides the enthusiasts today. It is possible to see the expressions of this identity clearly in the new X1. Growing kidney grilles, daytime running lights with frowning eyebrows and a three-dimensional stop design at the rear are the cornerstones for the new generation. Yes, like many people, we have not yet gotten used to the kidneys of the brand, which have been moved to gigantic sizes, especially in the front section. However, we witnessed that the form applied in X1 does not create an uncomfortable feeling in the real world. This new structure combines with the X1’s 4,500 millimeters long, 1,845 millimeters wide, 1,642 millimeters high. with the advent of does not reveal a much worse formula.
Looking at the X1 profile, it is an SUV that will please its users. The discreet design of the door handles takes the overall architecture of the vehicle one layer up. In addition, especially towards the rear section, strong statements from the XM concept, which will be carried into mass production in the near future, draw our attention. With the combination of all these design elements, BMW shared the X1’s friction coefficient as 0.26 cd. This figure deserves extra attention as it is the same as the i8, the brand’s super sports approach hybrid car. The third generation, which is very successful in terms of aerodynamics, is an important proof of the engineering level of the models in the SUV segment.
X1 M Sport and what’s left of the short ride
The version that we had the opportunity to experience within the scope of the organized organization carries the M Sport badge. As the name suggests, users will be waiting for important parts with this version, which is supported by more sporty parts compared to X-Line. In the M Sport version, which is positioned 15 millimeters lower than the standard package, the M Adaptive Suspension set comes as standard, in parallel. We can say that these changes, which provide the opportunity to drive with much more intuitive and fast response intervals, will definitely pass to the driver behind the wheel. The darkened grille, black mirrors on the outside, the M steering wheel and seats with Alcantara detail on the cockpit side also visually support the performance feeling reflected on the asphalt.
Although the badges and details bear the phrase “M”, when you look at the parts under the hood, you realize that this version is not a purebred M car. Positioned in both versions, the 1.5-liter gasoline engine produces 136 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque. With these values coming from the 118i version, the acceleration of the X1 from 0 to 100 is given as 9.2 seconds. Despite this, the new product range developed on BMW’s latest generation FAAR infrastructure is quite agile. Especially the M Sport version, which we had the opportunity to test, surprises with its performance on winding roads. After our driving, we felt that BMW tried to use more weapons in the infrastructure to make this version feel like an M car. To tell the truth, we’ve already dreamed of testing the X1’s new architecture with engines that offer higher dynamics. The first impression is that this infrastructure can be more successful with a higher level engine.
10.9,8,7….0
Another point that draws our attention during the tasting ride with the new model is on the entertainment side. We often mention that BMW’s new generation digital display systems are visually very successful and satisfying. Theme supports and interface designs allow for a very satisfying experience. The “Boost” mode is also included in these elements, which make itself felt in the M Sport package of the X1. With this kind of sporty package, we are used to the F1-type shift paddles positioned behind the steering wheel as standard from many models. With the pleasant comment BMW brought here, an extra task is assigned to the left side auricle. When you pull it towards you for a few seconds, the driver display takes on the “M” theme and the transformation begins. Right after, a countdown starts with the phrases “10,9,8,7…” on this screen. With all this provocative transformation, the reactions of the engine and transmission turn into a working character to transfer the generated power and torque to the ground as quickly as possible. This usage, which is very functional especially in sudden overtaking needs, gives great pleasure to the driver as a feeling, even though the engine dynamics do not offer high performance.
We can say that the engine options of the third X1 are wider than they have ever been, together with the ones not yet offered in Turkey. Apart from the diesel and gasoline engine with the “18” badge, which is positioned at the entry level of the family, there are more serious performances in hybrid-assisted units. With the xDrive23i positioned on the gasoline side, with a power value of close to 220 horsepower, the 0-100 value of the car in about 7 seconds stands out. In the xDrive28i version, the 2.0-liter gasoline engine comes with 245 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque.
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In the xDrive25e version, where the electricity is activated, 245 horsepower and 477 Nm torque are remarkable in the gasoline engine combination. In this version, there is a hybrid experience where users are offered a pure electric driving range of up to 90 kilometers. The xDrive30e, on the other hand, is the pinnacle of the hybrid engine with its 330 horsepower. With the new generation, the X1 will be available for purchase as fully electric for the first time. We can say that the combination of pure electric driving dynamism with this infrastructure also has great potential. 2022 BMW X1 will be our guest again and in detail in the upcoming period, in a longer period.