BMW has just unveiled the 2023 X1, which is expected to hit dealerships in late 2022. While the European market will receive a number of engine options, including the all-electric iX1, the U.S. will have one option: the xDrive28i (which we’ll call the X128i). Let’s dig into some of the details of the X128i and then daydream about the impressive new iX1 EV offering, which happens to be the first in the compact all-wheel-drive, all-electric SAV segment from BMW.
The X128i will come with a familiar turbocharged two-liter inline-four, and all-wheel drive. The engine produces 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. However, instead of the traditional eight-speed automatic transmission we’ve grown to know, it will now come with a seven-speed dual-clutch (DCT) setup. We’ll have to wait to hear about the driving experience of the new X1 when equipped with the new dual-clutch automatic transmission, but I imagine quicker, harder shifts will be available in Sport mode. This engine, combined with the DCT, allows the X1 to hit 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds.
The 2023 X1 is larger in every way, including the kidney grilles, which include active shutters for better aerodynamics. The chiseled front and rear facia follow suit with BMW’s other SUV offerings, and the standard LED headlights and are shifting to a more narrow design—although not as narrow as the new 7 Series. BMW minimizes weight by using “intelligent lightweight design.” For the X128i, this means an aluminum hood, smart use of plastics in the doors, and optional forged wheels.
The interior boasts new tech, with the most obvious being the curved 10.7-inch central infotainment screen and 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, running iDrive 8. There will be an M Sport package, which can be fitted with adaptive M suspension, providing adjustable dampers and slightly lowering the vehicle.
The iX1, which will be available in Europe in iX130 trim, takes things up a notch. Two electric motors work together to produce 313 horsepower and 364 pound-feet of torque, which result in a sub-six-second run to 60 mph. A full charge (and modest driving) gives the iX1 more than a 250-mile range. Fast-charging technology can return the batteries to 80% charge in just under 30 minutes.
The blue accents on the lower edges of the iX1’s trim area nice touch. Perhaps we’ll see more of this technology make its way stateside in future BMW products.—Mike Bevels
Photos courtesy of BMW.
