We're only three months into 2023 but BMW Philippines distributor SMC Asia Cars Distributors Corp. has launched another vehicle.
After revealing the iX3 EV last January, the automaker has taken the covers off the 2023 X1. Now on its third generation, the smallest crossover SUV from the Bavarian automaker features a more daring exterior, a more high-tech cabin, and a wide array of new and upgraded intelligent systems.
Beginning with its looks, some might mistake this as a major facelift. In reality, the 2023 X1 is all-new from top to bottom. It retains the proportions of its predecessor but gets a more aggressive and sportier demeanor. The front fascia gets a new pair of slim adaptive LED headlights, restyled LED lightning signatures, bolder (and larger) dual kidney grille, L-shaped accents on the front bumper, and a faux skid plate in the center.
The rest of the vehicle sees the X1 get sleeker LED taillights, L-shaped accents on the rear bumper that reflect the ones on the front bumper, a more stylish tailgate, flared wheel arches, and 18-inch alloy wheels in Star-spoke Style 865.
As with all BMWs today, the new X1 gets the brand's neat Live Cockpit Plus. This gives occupants a dual-cockpit layout wherein the driver is treated to a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Alongside it is a 10.7-inch touchscreen curved media display that's powered by the latest Operating System 8.0. It features state-of-the-art graphics and menu structure. In addition, the new iDrive also comes with improved intuitive touch and an intelligent voice assistant that can recognize additional commands.
Smartphone integration is now easier as well thanks to wireless Apple CarPlay which is now standard on the X1. Android users will also be happy that Android Auto is also available in the X1, albeit it still needs to have a data cable. Other available amenities include Bluetooth, satellite navigation, three-zone automatic climate control, Sensatec perforated black upholstery, four USB-C charging ports, two 12V power sockets, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and 40:20:40-split rear seats.
Speaking of cargo capacity, the X1 can carry 540 liters worth of luggage with the rear seats up. Fold them down, however, and luggage capacity increases to a whopping 1,600 liters.
Under the hood, the all-new X1 comes with a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel four-cylinder engine dubbed sDrive18d. It puts out 150 PS at 4000 rpm and 350 Nm of torque from 1750 to 2750 rpm. Power is then sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
A plethora of intelligent driver aids provide the driver (and passengers) peace of mind while on the road. These include cruise control with brake function, a front-collision warning system that can also recognize cyclists, and a parking assistant including a reverse camera and reversing assistant.
The 2023 BMW X1 sDrive18d xLine has a sticker price of PHP 3,890,000 and is covered by BMW's comprehensive 5-year warranty.
