THE NEW BMW X1

The launch of the third generation X1 sees a choice of a petrol and diesel engine, and will be followed shortly by an all-electric BMW iX1 x Drive 30e. Personally I’m wondering how you manage to charge your mobile phone with the current rolling blackouts let alone a car. But BMW have always positioned themselves as class leaders and have nailed their colours to the mast of all-electric.

The X1 sDrive18i and X1 sDrive18d are linked to a 7 speed steptronic transmission which powers the front wheel drive.

The most noticeable changes on the exterior is the narrower rear window which creates a striking look from the rear. The front kidney grille is smaller and the air intakes are closed to create better drag efficiency.

All model variants come as standard with 18-inch light-alloy wheels as fitted on xLine and M Sport cars, although these models are also available with 19-inch and in a first for the BMW X1 20-inch wheels. Customers can choose from two solid and ten metallic shades for the exterior paint finish including a Frozen paint option from BMW Individual for the first time.

Inside, the BMW X1 exudes comfort and the ergonomic design is minimal. A floating armrest with a curved BMW display keep the inside looking sleek and modern.

The BMW Maps navigation system, a Sport leather steering wheel, intelligent two-zone automatic climate control and a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation all come as standard in the new generation of the BMW 1, as do four USB-C ports, two 12V power sockets and a far greater number of driver assistance systems compared with the outgoing model.

Restructured equipment packages enable targeted individualisation of the car. The premium character can be turned up another notch by optional features such as the mirror package, ambient lighting, panoramic glass sunroof and Harman Kardon Sound System.

The new My Modes combine individually selectable vehicle settings with matching experience worlds for the interior. The Augmented View function is available as an optional add-on for the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system. An interior camera makes it possible to take snapshots of the occupants or have images of the interior sent to the customer’s smartphone. In addition to this, a Personal eSim designed for 5G mobile technology, the BMW Digital Key Plus, the BMW ID functionality and smartphone integration using both Apple CarPlay¨ and Android Auto TM are also available in the new BMW X1.

Prices start at R753 045 for the BMW X1 5Drive 18i.