2020 BMW X1 Debuts With New Looks And A Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain

BMW has introduced the facelifted 2020 X1.

Looking instantly recognizable, the updated model has a new front bumper with larger air intakes and restyled fog lights. Designers also installed a larger twin-kidney grille that is flanked by new headlights.

The styling changes continue further back as the crossover adopts new taillights, a revised rear bumper and additional body-color accents. There are also larger exhaust tips and a driver’s side mirror which projects a two-tone “X1” image onto the ground. Rounding out the changes are four new wheel designs and a revised color palette that now includes Jucaro Beige metallic, Misano Blue metallic and BMW Individual Storm Bay metallic.

Interior changes are pretty modest, but include a new gear selector and a newly optional 8.8- or 10.25-inch infotainment system. Other updates include revised upholstery and new contrast stitching on the instrument panel and floor mats.

The facelifted X1 will arrive in Europe this summer with an assortment of three- and four-cylinder engines. However, the big news in a plug-in hybrid variant called the X1 xDrive25e.

Slated to go into production in March, the X1 xDrive25e will have a TwinPower Turbo engine that produces 123 hp (92 kW / 125 PS) and 162 lb-ft (220 Nm) of torque. The engine powers the front wheels, while the rear wheels are motivated by an electric motor developing 94 hp (70 kW / 95 PS) and 122 lb-ft (165 Nm) of torque. The latter is powered by a 9.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and this allows the crossover to travel more than 31 miles (50 km) on electricity alone.

Besides the plug-in hybrid variant, Europeans can order the X1 sDrive16d which has a 1.5-liter TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder that produces 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS) and 199 lb-ft (270 Nm) of torque. Opting for the X1 xDrive25d rewards buyers with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel developing 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. There will also be a petrol-powered X1 xDrive25i with 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque.

In the United States, the X1 will arrive late this year with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. It will be connected to an improved eight-speed automatic transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system. When the latter option is selected, the crossover will accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 6.3 seconds.