New BMW X1 LWB Teased Ahead Of India Launch On Aug 21

While X1 LWB will be dimensionally similar to the Chinese version, interior features and powertrain options could be the same as the standard X1 SUV sold in India

LWB variants of popular luxury cars have been a great success in China and India. Following that trend, BMW is readying the X1 LWB for the Indian market. This is essentially the ICE version of the iX1 LWB on sale in India. X1 LWB is already offered in China, where it is sold as X1 Li. The SUV will be imported as CKD units and assembled at BMW’s plant in Chennai for price competitiveness.

BMW X1 LWB – Larger size, more interior space

Among the key differences between the standard X1 and X1 LWB variants will be the larger size of the LWB model. BMW X1 LWB is 4,616 mm long, 1,845 mm wide and 1,641 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,802 mm. In comparison, the standard X1 SUV is 4,500 mm long, 1,845 mm wide and 1,630 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,692 mm.

That means the X1 LWB variant is 116 mm longer and 11 mm taller than the standard X1. The gain in wheelbase stands at 110 mm. Apart from the larger dimensions, most other exterior features of X1 LWB are the same as the standard X1 SUV. Key features include a large kidney grille with aluminium bars in satin finish. The grille frame gets a chrome finish.

Across exterior and interior, a number of design elements are derived from BMW’s high-performance M models. The SUV has a hexagonal bumper in a blacked-out finish, adaptive LED headlights and body coloured roof mouldings. Side profile has blacked-out B and C pillars, body coloured door handles, squared wheel arches, a gently sloping roofline and sporty alloys.

While the Chinese-spec X1 LWB has 19-inch standard and 20-inch optional wheels, the India-spec model could be using 18-inch wheels like the standard X1 and iX1 LWB. At the rear, BMW X1 has distinctive 3D-style L-shaped tail lamps, vertically oriented reflectors, roof mounted curvy spoiler and a dual tone bumper with inserts in a glossy black finish.

More legroom, boot space

Dimensional gains mean that users can access more space on the inside. A significant percentage of the increased space will translate into more legroom for rear passengers. Seat height will see an increase of 27 mm, whereas headrest cushions will be wider by 37 mm. X1 LWB will also have a larger 540-litre boot, as compared to the 476-litre boot available with the standard X1.

Apart from the roomier cabin, most other features of the X1 LWB variant will be the same as the standard X1 model. Key highlights include a leather steering wheel with integrated shift paddles and mounted controls. X1 has individually adjustable front sports seats, digital key, automatic tailgate, and IRVM with automatic anti-dazzle function.

There’s a panoramic glass sunroof, wireless charging and premium audio system by Harman Kardon. Other highlights include a curved display, comprising a 10.7-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The SUV has dual zone climate control and a comprehensive range of connectivity features.

BMW X1 LWB powertrain options

In China, the BMW X1 LWB is offered with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine. It generates 204 hp and 300 Nm of torque and is paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. The FWD variant takes 7.9 seconds to achieve 0 to 100 km/h. In comparison, the AWD variant does it slightly faster in 7.7 seconds. BMW X1 LWB in China has a top speed of 229 km/h.

In India, the X1 LWB may use the same engines as available with the standard X1 or Mini Countryman C. The 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine generates 230 Nm of torque. It can achieve 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds. The 2.0-litre diesel engine generates 360 Nm of torque. It can achieve 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. The standard X1 in India has a top speed of 210 km/h.

When launched on 21st August, BMW X1 LWB will have no direct rivals. It could be offered at a premium price in comparison to the standard X1. The latter is available in the price range of Rs 50.9 lakh to Rs 52.9 lakh.