BMW has unveiled the mid-life facelift model of its popular SUV the X1 for the international markets. Last year the brand sold nearly 2,87,000 units of the SUV which was in its third-generation. And now the new facelift model will not only get visual upgrades but it is also expected to come with a new plug-in hybrid variant.
On the exterior, the 2020 BMW X1 gets the larger kidney shaped chrome grille similar to that on the latest X models, reshaped bumpers on both ends along with new refreshed more detailed headlights and new wider 3D tail lights. The fog lamps on the bumper are now placed horizontally with a sleek rectangular design instead of the round ones found on the current generation. The tailpipe diameter is now larger by 20mm and compliments the new rear bumper.
On the interior, the car features a centrally mounted 6.5-inch screen as standard. An 8.8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system which can be controlled using the BMW iDrive Controller, voice control or touchscreen that comes as an option, depending on the trim. Contrast stitching on the upholstery that matches with the floor mats, can be availed on high-end trims. The car also comes with 6 colour ambient lighting as an optional package.
The powerplant which will be introduced in 2020 is the new plug-in variant which is called the xDrive 25e, powered by a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine producing 124.7 HP of power and 219.6 Nm of torque coupled with a 95.3 HP/151.8 Nm electric motor with a 9.7kW battery pack which can deliver an electric-only range of 49.8 km.
The SUV will also come in an M Sport variant which will have visual differentiating features, a lower ride height, larger air intakes, etc.
In India, the current BMW X1 has two engine options and the facelift model when it comes to India is expected to use the same engines with minor improvements in power and efficiency. Petrol variant which comes with a 1,998cc, 4-cylinder engine which produces 192 HP of power and 280 Nm of torque mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox. Diesel variant comes with a 1,995cc, 4-cylinder engine which produces 190 HP of power and 400 Nm of torque mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox
The facelift model will be coming to India mostly around the end of 2019 or at Auto Expo 2020.
