BMW begins production of X1 in India

Words by Abhishek Wairagade

The second generation X1 has begun production at BMW’s Chennai plant, after being showcased at the Auto Expo in February. The first unit was rolled out in the presence of BMW’s MD of the Chennai plant, Jochen Stallkamp.

The SUV gets a restyled front kidney grille along with an overhauled bumper. Full LED head lamps and tail lamps are standard. The ORVMs have been redesigned to add to the fresh look.

The X1 is equipped with BMW’s 2-litre diesel engine which makes 190bhp and 400Nm of torque and is offered in both, RWD and AWD versions. The 8-speed gearbox is offered with paddle shifters on the xLine and M Sport version. BMW claims that the X1 can sprint from a standstill to 100kmph in 7.8 seconds and max out at 219kmph.

The second generation X1 is taller and shorter in length, but has a longer wheelbase as compared to the older car and thus has a more SUV-like stance. This car is also more spacious on the inside, bettering both its rivals, Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, inclusive of the boot capacity. The huge sun roof gives it an even roomier feel. The SUV is lighter by 135kg at the same time, making it more fuel efficient.

On the equipment front the X1 gets BMW’s iDrive system with an infotainment display (16.5cm), automatic stop-start function, 6 airbags and ABS as standard on all variants. The pricing starts at Rs 29.9 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and the X1 is available in all BMW showrooms pan-India.