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Car
Review
This BMWX1 sDrive20i
bears the codename
F48 inBMW’s scheme
of things and is the 2
nd
generationof the compact
crossover, first seen at
the 2008ParisMotor
Show. What has changed
ismore than just looks;
the very core of BMW
has been altered. While
the 1st X1 either came in
rear- or all-wheel drive,
the F48 has becomemore
‘mainstream’ with a front-
wheel drive configuration.
T
hanks
t o t he new
UKL (literally short for
‘Lower Class’) modular
platform for front- and
four-wheel drive BMWs
and MINIs, the F48 looks
bet ter propor t ioned
than its predecessor. The switching of
engine orientation from longitudinal to
transverse also helped the new X1 look
less front-heavy.
And in doing so, BMW actually made
the X1 look more like a proper crossover
than a stationwagon on steroids. As a
result of this re-engineering, it is now
shorter (by 38mm) but wider (by 23mm)
and taller (by 53mm) than the old one.
The transverse engine layout also allows
for better cabin space and improved
safety.
The new X1 is also looks bolder
with a more prominent kidney grille,
angular headlights and increased ground
clearance. The rear lights are also recon-
figured and look more aggressive and
better proportioned.
Size-wise, if you like the Honda HR-
V’s proportions, you will like the BMW
X1’s, which is a sleeker, more premium
version of the Honda’s.
The Cabin
The longer wheelbase (by 90mm)
is a boon for legroom; headroom is
comfortable too. Cargo space is 505
liters, increasing to 1550 litres with seats
folded. The cargo space has a double
floor for increased storage. The rear seats
fold 40:20:40, so storing long slim items
will not sacrifice rear seating.
BMW X1 sDrive20i:
Moving Forwards