As early as Q3 2025, our spies were able to spot the refreshed BMW X1. Spotted on three different occasions (Sept 2025, Oct 2025, and most recently in Feb 2026), the updated X1 is set to receive a “Neue Klasse” facelift based on what our spies managed to capture.

With the all-new iX3, i3, and other BMW models sporting the Neue Klasse look, it's not surprising the automaker has decided to make it available across different nameplates.

Fast forward to June 2026, and our spies managed to spot the refreshed BMW X1 once more. Like the previous sightings, it's quite apparent that the updated X1 will get the Neue Klasse look. From the slimmer LED headlights to the vertical kidney grille, the crossover is set to get a fresh new look (pun not intended).

However, our spies did mention that the vehicle we're looking at is no ordinary X1. In fact, our spies claimed that this is the upcoming X1 M40, which will likely serve as the most powerful internal combustion (ICE) model in the X1 lineup. This can be seen, thanks to the quad exhaust pipes in the back, which serve as a hallmark design for the current M35i.

Currently, the X1 M35i, which is the closest we'll get to a proper BMW X1 M, has a 2.0L TwinPower Turbo that makes 317 PS and 400 Nm of peak torque between 2000 and 4500 rpm. Paired with a slick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the X1 M35i can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

So what will make the M40i different? While there are no exact specifications yet about the X1 M40 available, we can perhaps expect the 2.0L TwinPower Turbo engine to generate more power with up to 350 PS on tap. Meanwhile, torque output could go beyond 400 Nm if BMW decides to give it more upgrades.

Combined with a limited-slip differential, adaptive M suspension, M Compound brakes, and an upgraded 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the BMW X1 M40 may just prove that the X1 can still be a sporty crossover SUV.

With BMW still busy testing the refreshed X1, our spies estimated we can expect the updated crossover SUV to make its official debut sometime in 2027.