BMW unveils new X1

02/07/09

BMW shows off its newest - and smallest - sports utility. It begins sale in October and prices start at £22,660

This is the new X1, BMW’s smallest off-roader yet. With a starting price of £22,660 and two-wheel drive powering the cheaper models, it will be more of a tough, high-built hatchback than a full-on off-roader. Despite its tidy dimensions it will seat five and also packs a sensibly-sized boot.

Looks-wise it promises closely to resemble its big brother, the X5. All version will have diesel engines, producing between 143 and 204bhp. In keeping with the exceptional fuel economy and low CO2 emissions achieved by other BMWs, the entry model will be capable of up to 54.3mpg overall and 136g/km of CO2. Top-line X1s, costing up to £29,055, will pack proper four-wheel drive.

Cars will drive using a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, and BMW’s stop-start system will be available across the range. This saves fuel and reduces emissions by stopping the engine whenever the car is at a halt with its gears to neutral. The top model will also be available with a six-speed auto gearbox that offers shift paddles on the steering wheel.

Three X1 variants begin sale in the UK on October 24. The two cheapest models won’t be available until December, however.