BMW X1 – The New Driving Revolution

The new BMW X derivative aims to become as much of a success as the original X5 did ten years ago.

Since the release of the X5 a decade ago the X model line has become extremely successful. Featuring in music videos and on TV and film the desirable nature of this range as seen over 1.5 million X5s being worldwide and the new edition hopes to be just as popular.

The X1 again breaks boundaries, taking the design from the old X5 but in a more compact, more functional, more affordable size. The vehicle’s elegant lines and command driving position echo its larger stablemate, while the five-seat configuration and 1,350-litre boot space provide outstanding load-lugging capability.

There are three power options to choose from with the X1 but in reality you only get on engine. There is the 18d, 20d, and 23d engines that all come in sDrive and xDrive, which to me and you means rear wheel drive and 4x4 respectively. All engines are the same aluminium build and are 1,995cc but are in different states of tune.

The 18d gives out 143 Hp and its quickest time from 0 – 62 mph is 9.6 seconds compared to the 20d, which is slightly more tuned with 177 Hp and takes 8.1 seconds to 62 mph. The 23d has the addition of the turbo charger and gets 204 Hp getting from 0 - 62 mph in just 7.3 seconds.

As well as the sDrive and the xDrive there’s also the iDrive features as well, meaning all the communication and entertainment gadgets.

Music expert, Ellie Walker loves the new sound system,

“I just find it amazing these days that I can link my MP3s to my car and listen in such high quality. The connectivity of all new BMWs is great,” she comments.

The BMW X1 goes on sale in the UK on 24 October, 2009 with the sDrive18d and xDrive18d variants following in December.

E. Dooley

21/07/2009