China’s demand for more spacious automobiles has convinced BMW to add a few centimeters to its entry level SUV. Even so, the X1 LWB still remains the smallest crossover in the Bavarian car maker’s line-up.
However, thanks to its 4.56 meters (180 in) in length, 1.81 meters (71 in) in width and 1.62 meters (64 in) in height, this particular variant has almost outgrown the first-generation X3, offering between 5 and 18 cm (2 – 7 inches) more knee room for the rear passengers, and a boot capacity between 465-675 liters, – a value influenced by the positioning of the rear seats; fold the backseat and customers will be able to enjoy up to 1,650 liters of space to carry their luggage.
In China, the X1 Long will offer three power options, including the “entry level” 3-pot 136 HP sDrive18Li, the four-cylinder 192 HP sDrive20Li/xDrive20Li, and inline four, 231 HP xDrive25Li; all turbocharged, of course. Moreover, the sDrive18Li is coupled as standard to a six-speed Steptronic transmission, while the remaining models come equipped with an eight-speed.
Two trim levels will be available on the long-wheelbase variant of the X1, the xLine and the Sport Line, both available with a wide array of standard and optional, such as parking assist and memory functions, rear Park Distance Control, keyless start, electrically adjustable driver’s and front passenger’s seats with memory function, Dynamic Damper Control, LED headlights, Driving Assistant package, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.
The “stretched” BMW X1 will be built at BMW Brilliance’s Tiexi plant in Shenyang.
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