The BMW X1 is BMW’s compact premium SUV. It blends luxury, everyday usability and practical space. The 2025 lineup includes refined petrol and diesel engines in global markets and a new India-made long wheelbase electric variant. This guide explains the X1 in simple language for Indian buyers. It covers design, engines, the new iX1 long wheelbase EV, features, safety, pricing, ownership tips and FAQs. A quick specification table appears below for a fast overview.
Quick Spec Table
| Item | Typical Figure / Note |
|---|---|
| Models (India 2025) | BMW X1 compact SUV and BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase All Electric (locally produced) |
| Electric Motor (iX1 LWB) | eDrive20L single motor, front wheel drive, about 204 PS |
| Common Petrol Engines (Global) | 1.5 litre to 2.0 litre turbo petrol, about 134 to 200 plus PS depending on tune |
| Transmission | 7 speed DCT or 7/8 speed automatic; EV uses single speed |
| Boot Space (ICE) | About 476 litres (varies by configuration) |
| India Price Guide (2025) | Roughly ₹50 to ₹64 lakh ex showroom depending on variant and offers |
Overview — Who the X1 Is For
The BMW X1 suits buyers who want a compact SUV with a premium feel. It is smaller than the X3 but still carries BMW’s driving character. The size works well for city use and tight parking spaces. Interior room is practical enough for small families. The introduction of the India-made iX1 long wheelbase shows BMW’s interest in offering electric mobility with more rear comfort and better local support. This appeals to buyers who want a luxury EV with dependable aftersales service.
Design and Road Presence
The X1 has a confident and upright stance. The design looks modern without being overly aggressive. The front is wide and uses slim LED headlamps. The side profile stays compact and easy to navigate in traffic. Larger wheels give it a planted look. The tall glass area improves visibility for city driving. Overall, it appears like a mature compact SUV that still fits narrow spaces.
Interior and Cabin Comfort
The cabin carries a premium feel. Surfaces you touch often use soft materials. The dashboard is driver oriented with clean controls. Seats are supportive for long drives. Rear seat space is competitive for the segment and the boot is among the largest in the class. Higher variants bring leather upholstery, ambient lighting and premium trim that elevate the experience. Reviewers often praise the cabin quietness and solid comfort at highway speeds.
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Powertrains — Petrol, Diesel (Global) and India iX1 Electric
Globally, the X1 is sold with several petrol and diesel engine options. Popular choices include 1.5 litre and 2.0 litre turbo petrol engines. Some markets also get mild hybrid support for added efficiency. Gearboxes are smooth and suited for both city and highway driving.
The key India launch for 2025 is the BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase All Electric. It is built at the Chennai plant and uses the eDrive20L single motor layout delivering around 204 PS. Local production helps reduce pricing and improve parts availability. The extended wheelbase adds rear legroom, making it attractive for EV buyers who want more comfort.
Driving Dynamics and Ride
BMW tunes the X1 to balance comfort and sportiness. The chassis remains stable at high speeds and feels agile through corners. Steering precision is better than typical family crossovers. Suspension tuning leans slightly firm which helps maintain that BMW character. EV models offer instant torque and near silent driving, making them very smooth in the city. Test drives regularly highlight the X1’s ability to combine relaxed commuting with capable handling when pushed.
Infotainment and Tech
The X1 features BMW’s latest infotainment software depending on model year. The digital driver display and touchscreen offer clear graphics and easy-to-read layouts. BMW is expanding features like augmented reality navigation and advanced HUD systems across its range. Higher trims include premium audio, panoramic sunroof and connected car functions with remote monitoring and navigation services.
Safety and Driver Aids
The X1 includes multiple airbags, ABS, EBD, stability control and several driver assistance features. Higher variants may offer adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and advanced parking aids. Feature availability varies by region and trim, so Indian buyers should confirm exact ADAS features with dealers.
Practical Ownership and Service in India
BMW has expanded its dealer and service network over the years. Local production of the iX1 LWB helps reduce costs and improves service turnaround times. Prices were adjusted in 2025 after GST changes, making ownership slightly more accessible. Still, maintenance and running costs remain higher than non luxury brands, so extended warranties and service packages are recommended.
Pricing in India and the GST Effect
BMW revised pricing in 2025 after GST 2.0. Entry variants now fall around the low ₹50 lakh band ex showroom, while higher trims fall in the ₹60 lakh range. Final on road prices vary by city, insurance type and optional accessories. Local production improves EV pricing for the iX1 LWB. It is always best to request a fresh on road quote before deciding.
How the X1 Compares with Rivals
The BMW X1 competes with the Mercedes GLA, Audi Q3 and other compact luxury SUVs. The X1’s strengths include driving dynamics, practicality and the availability of a long wheelbase EV. Rivals may offer advantages in design, pricing or interior tech. A back-to-back test drive helps identify which suits your preferences best.
Real World Fuel Economy and EV Range
Fuel economy for petrol or diesel models depends on engine choice and traffic conditions. Typical mixed driving figures fall in the mid-teens for kmpl. EV range varies by battery pack and driving style. Real world city range is usually better than highway range. Buyers should check official figures from BMW India for the exact iX1 LWB variant.
Practical Buying Tips for Indian Buyers
• Test drive during different times of day to check ride comfort, noise levels and AC performance
• Try the rear seat with regular passengers if back seat comfort matters
• For EV buyers, check home charger options and nearby public fast chargers
• Ask about warranty coverage, battery warranty and service packages
• Request a written on road quote including taxes and insurance
• Compare offers across multiple dealerships
Pros and Cons Quick View
Pros
• Premium cabin with practical boot and spacious rear seat in the LWB EV
• Strong driving dynamics for a compact SUV
• India-made iX1 LWB lowers EV cost and improves parts availability
• Modern infotainment and increasing ADAS features
Cons
• Higher running costs compared with non luxury SUVs
• Feature list varies by variant and region, so dealer confirmation is needed
Detailed Specification Table (Representative Figures)
| Specification | Typical / Reported |
|---|---|
| Model | BMW X1 (2025) and BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase All Electric |
| ICE Engines (Global) | 1.5 to 2.0 litre turbo petrol plus diesel options in select markets |
| EV Drivetrain (India) | eDrive20L single motor, front wheel drive, around 204 PS |
| Transmission | 7 speed DCT or 7/8 speed automatic for ICE models, single speed for EV |
| Boot Space (ICE) | About 476 litres |
| Seating | 5 |
| Safety | Multiple airbags, ABS, EBD, ESC, ADAS depending on trim |
| Price Guide (India) | Rough entry ex showroom around ₹50 lakh and above |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the BMW X1 available as an EV in India
Yes. BMW introduced the iX1 Long Wheelbase All Electric in 2025. It is locally produced and offered in the eDrive20L variant.
Q: What is the price of the BMW X1 in India
Prices begin in the low ₹50 lakh band and increase with additional features, options and variant choices.
Q: What is the expected range of the iX1 LWB
Range depends on driving style and official configuration. Check BMW India’s documentation for WLTP or local test values.
Q: Should I pick the EV or petrol model
Choose the EV if you have easy access to charging and want quieter, lower cost running. Choose petrol if you drive long distances often or prefer traditional fuel convenience.
Q: How does the X1 compare with the Mercedes GLA or Audi Q3
The X1 is generally more engaging to drive, while rivals may offer styling or tech advantages. A test drive is the best way to decide.
Final Thoughts
The BMW X1 remains a strong choice for buyers who want a compact luxury SUV with a refined cabin, modern features and enjoyable driving dynamics. The addition of the India-made long wheelbase electric iX1 expands the lineup and offers a premium EV option with more rear space. Always compare dealer quotes, check features for your specific variant and factor service packages into the ownership cost. If you want a well rounded luxury SUV with a balanced feature set, the X1 deserves a place on your shortlist.
