BMWBLOG reported in early January that BMW’s entry-level SAV, the X1, will miss its original launch target in early 2011 and be postponed until late 2011. The delay was related to production capacity at the Leipzig plant and a high demand for the vehicle. But new information come to confirm an even later date than the previously one reported.

We’re inclined to believe that the North American customers will have to wait until BMW rolls off the facelifted X1 which is likely to appear in early 2013.

The Canadian market received the X1 starting in June and the base price for the xDrive28i model is $38,500. The X1 will be equipped with the new N20 four-cylinder turbocharged engine. BMWBLOG had the opportunity to drive the car back in April.

The variant to be offered will be the X1 xDrive28i powered by the new N20 2.0 liter four-cylinder TwinPower turbocharged engine. The new unit produces 245 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque (258 lb of torque).

The engine can be mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or a 8-speed automatic transmission.

In the EU test cycle, the BMW X1 xDrive28i runs with 7.9 liters/100 km or 35.7 mpg imp (an improvement of 1.5 liters / 5.7 mpg), has CO2 emissions of 183 g/km (down by 38g).

Performance wise, the X1 xDrive28i runs from 0 to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds (6.5 with a 6-speed automatic).

According to our own sources, the delay is attributed to the higher than expected demand in Europe and the need to balance the production to satisfy the customers’ requests. Canada has already begun receiving the X1 xDrive28i as of this May.

For more information and an exclusive test drive of the BMW X1 xDrive28i, click through the link.

[Source: eGMcartech ]

With an average fuel consumption of 4.5 litres/100 km and a CO2 emission level of 119 grams per kilometre it achieves best marks for efficiency in a BMW X model.

Furthermore, from the autumn of 2011, a newly developed four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology will be available for the BMW X1. The 135 kW/184 hp power unit also sets new standards in the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions within its performance class, with values ranging from 7.1 litres and 165 grams for the BMW X1 sDrive20i and 7.7 litres (automatic: 7.6 litres) and 179 grams (177 grams) for the BMW X1 xDrive20i.

The consistent deployment of highly efficient engines and BMW EfficientDynamics technology fitted as standard helps BMW X models also achieve brand-typical driving pleasure combined with exemplary fuel economy and low emission levels. The BMW X1’s outstanding efficiency is a fundamental part of its premium character, which is unique within the competitive environment and also underscored by high-class workmanship, elaborated functionality, a variable interior and numerous equipment features. The BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition raises the relation between sporty and athletic agility and fuel economy to a new level. Its 2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, whose BMW TwinPower Turbo technology comprises a supercharging system with variable turbine geometry and Common Rail injection, generates a maximum output of 120 kW/163 hp between 3 250 und 4 200 rpm. Maximum torque of 380 Nm is available between 1 750 and 2 500 rpm.

The engine has been optimised in detail in order to achieve an exceptionally high degree of efficiency. Special model-specific features include a centrifugal force pendulum in the dual-mass flywheel, which compensates vibration experienced at low engine speeds, thus providing more riding comfort when the vehicle is driven within the economic low engine speed range. The gear-shift point indicator fitted as standard has been adapted to suit the new engine characteristics. Moreover, standard features also include brake energy regeneration, Auto Start Stop function, electromechanical power steering, a disengageable air-conditioning compressor and tyres with reduced rolling resistance. The BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition also features a longer rear axle drive ratio and specific light alloys in the Streamline design.

Furthermore, the BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition features newly conceived insulation technology for reducing engine noise that is perceptible inside the vehicle. The noise optimisation measures will be deployed as from the autumn of 2011 in all further diesel versions of the BMW X1.

The petrol engine variants of the BMW X1 also present themselves as pacesetters for ever-increasing driving pleasure combined with optimised efficiency. The BMW X1 xDrive28i is now being followed by further models featuring a new generation of four-cylinder combustion engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The technology package featured on the 2-litre four-cylinder power unit for the BMW X1 sDrive20i with rear-wheel drive and the BMW X1 xDrive20i with intelligent four-wheel drive comprises a supercharging system according to the Twin Scroll principle, the direct injection system High Precision Injection and variable valve control VALVETRONIC. This combination guarantees not only spontaneous response and sporty power delivery even in the higher load ranges, but also favourable fuel consumption that is outstanding for petrol engines in this performance class.

Maximum power output of the new engine is 135 kW/184 hp, which is made available between 5 000 and 6 250 rpm, whilst maximum torque of 270 Nm is achieved between 1 250 and 4 500 rpm. Thanks to its supreme pulling power and sporting performance, the BMW X1 sDrive20i accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and the BMW X1 xDrive20i in 7.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption of 7.1 litres/100 km as per the EU test cycle and a CO2 emission level of 165 grams are applicable to the BMW X1 sDrive20i both in conjunction with the standard six-speed manual gearbox as well as with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission. The BMW X1 xDrive20i achieves an average fuel consumption of 7.7 litres/100 km (automatic: 7.6 litres) and a CO2 emission level of 179 (177) grams per kilometre. The standard BMW Efficient Dynamics technology package featured on both models comprises in addition to brake energy regeneration and on-demand control of ancillary components also the Auto Start Stop function and the gear-shift point indicator for vehicles with manual transmission as well as electromechanical power steering on the BMW X1 sDrive20i.

With the introduction of the new engines, the drive portfolio of the BMW X1 will increase in the autumn of 2011 to a total of three petrol and four diesel power units with a power output spectrum ranging from 105 kW/143 hp to 180 kW/245 hp. All told, there is a choice of ten model variants, five of them featuring characteristic BMW power transmission to the rear wheels and five with the electronically controlled four-wheel drive system xDrive.

The entry-level model from the BMW X family attains additional appeal through optimisation of the suspension technology as well as an extended range of optional equipment. The standard stability control feature DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) has been supplemented on the rear-wheel drive diesel models by the dry braking and fading compensation functions. The models BMW X1 sDrive20i, BMW X1 sDrive28i, BMW X1 xDrive20i, BMW X1 xDrive28i and BMW X1 xDrive20d are equipped in addition with the brake stand-by function and a hill-start assistant. The BMW Individual roof rail system High Gloss Shadow Line will also be available in future as an individual option and thus not only in conjunction with the M Sport Package for the BMW X1. Moreover, the optional range of BMW ConnectedDrive features will be supplemented as from the autumn of 2011 by the Real-Time Traffic Information function.

[Source: BMW]

But having driven both, maybe it would be helpful to detail the differences and similarities. First, they both drive well. Like their larger sibling, the X5, BMW has not neglected the driver. As a friend says, a lot of guys say their trucks handle like sports cars, but nobody says their sports car handles like a truck. Yes they’re still SUVs but they’re the BMWs of SUVs.

The X3 is the newer of the two (even though the US has not seen the X1 yet. As such it has a few of the next generation EffecientDynamics built in that the X1 doesn’t. The most obvious of which is electrically assisted power steering. But, as BMWBLOG noted of the X3, the power steering is not bad at all. In fact it’s one of the better implementations of electrically assisted power steering and, given a set of non run-flat tires, might fool some people into thinking it’s a hydraulically assisted rack. The X1isn’t shabby underway either and it exhibits a precision that’s unmistakably BMW.

The interiors of both vehicles use good materials and have a focus on the driver’s seat. From the instrument binnacle, to the slight can’t of the center stack towards the driver, you can see who BMW thinks of first. And of course the passengers aren’t neglected with great seats and suspension tuning that the Germans have perfected. The X3 and X1 are good getaway cars. And both have the versatility of xDrive, fold down rear seating, and hatches that allow cargo to be swallowed whole.

So how different are they? Well the X3 is 7 inches longer, 3 inches wider, and a whooping 4.5 inches taller (that’s a bigger proportional change than the other dimensions). Oddly the wheelbase is only 2 inches longer in the X3. So while the X3 definitely has more cargo space, the X1 doesn’t skimp on the rear leg room.

So which one is better? Depends on needs. If the cargo space is significant, the X3. If fuel economy is the driver, the X1. The one I’d chose is the X1, because of the lower roofline and the enormous flexibility of the N20 turbo four cylinder, which makes it ideal for mountain roads. The lower price and better fuel economy is icing on the cake. Now, if I want an X1 I guess I’ll have to move to Canada, because they won’t be available south of the border anytime soon.

At 172.8 inches long and 72 inches wide, the Q3 is roughly the same size as Volkswagen’s Tiguan, and about 2.5 inches shorter than the X1.

The Audi Q3 is essentially a shrunken version of Q5 an Q7 SUVs. The design features a more coupe-like approach, with a gently sloping roofline and a steeply raked hatch.

The single-frame grill, like all recent models from Ingolstadt is once again present, along with the flashy, yet effective LED lights. Inside, no surprises as well, the typical Audi habiclat is present with the usual whistles and bells.

The Q3 is available in both all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive configuration, and weighs around 3,300 pounds (1,500 kilograms). The rear-wheel drive BMW X1 starts at 1505 kg.

At launch, in Europe, three engines will be available, all of them displacing 2.0 liters and combining turbocharging with direct injection. Two gasoline variants offer 170 or 211 horsepower, while the turbodiesel unit produces 177 horsepower; a 140-horsepower diesel will debut later. Audi says the 140-horse engine can return up to 45 mpg on U.S. testing in front-wheel-drive Q3s; the 211-horsepower model can reach 62 mph in a claimed 6.9 seconds.

The engines are mated to a six-speed manual transmission and a 6 and 7-speed automatic.

Compared to the X1, the Q3 offers significant more options including the parking assistant, lane change departure and traffic signs recognition.

Prices for the Audi Q3 will start at €29,900 for the base version. BMW’s entry level X1 sDrive18i starts at €27, 600.

As always, we decided to create a photo comparison between the two vehicles.

Pricing has been released at $38,500 MSRP for the base model without any option upgrades.

The X1 will fit well into Canadian life as a versatile daily driver that retains the closeness and connection to the road of the 3 series car that its chassis is based upon.  The X1′s all wheel drive system will be popular with Canadian drivers who frequent snow covered roads in their daily travels.  While the X1 does sit higher off the ground than its purely “car” based siblings, it will maintain a very sporty, lightweight feel among a sea of heavy SUVs in the market.

We love the X1′s looks and are certain of its success as many BMW drivers mature from their compact sport sedans, looking for something more practical while retaining much the same feel of their sport sedan.

Stay tuned for our BMWBLOG Drive Review in the coming months.

First official photos hit the web just days ago, but the X1 M Sport package will be introduced on March 1st at the Geneva Motor Show. The package will be available this Spring for all engine versions of the X1 and comprises suspension, exterior and interior components specially developed for this model.

They include sports suspension calibration and 17-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels for even sharper driving dynamics. Alternatively, the M Sports package can be supplied with 18-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels.

The M Sports package for the BMW X1 also features an M Aerodynamics package, door sills with the “M” logo and BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line trim for the side window surrounds and roof rails. Also available in conjunction with the M Sports package are the metallic exterior paint colours Alpine White, Le Mans Blue, Sapphire Black, Space Grey, Vermillion Red and Mineral White.

Sports seats upholstered in cloth/alcantara, an M leather-trimmed steering wheel with multifunction buttons and an M footrest for the driver add to the driving pleasure when the BMW X1 is equipped with the M Sports package. The high-end sporty theme is capped off by a BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite, dark cross-brushed aluminium interior trim, the M gearshift lever for vehicles with six-speed manual transmission and a leather handbrake lever gaiter.

For more details related to the UK market, see following link: www.bmw.co.uk

[Source: Bimmertoday ]

The engine can be matted to a 6-speed manual transmission or a 8-speed automatic transmission.
In the EU test cycle, the BMW X1 xDrive28i runs with 7.9 liters/100 km or 35.7 mpg imp (an improvement of 1.5 liters / 5.7 mpg), has CO2 emissions of 183 g/km (down by 38g).

Closely modelled on the BMW in-line six-cylinder engines, the all-new 2.0-litre engine with all-aluminium crankcase comes with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology features high-performance twin-scroll turbocharging system, High Precision Injection direct petrol injection with innovative solenoid injectors, and the latest further enhanced version of the BMW-patented VALVETRONIC variable valve control system.

Our own Hugo Becker has put together a comparison between the N20 four-cylinder TwinPower and the N52 six-cylinder naturally aspirated engine previously found in the xDrive28i.

Along with the first exclusive photos of the engine, we have a new set of wallpapers showing the X1 from different angles and driving scenarios.

The package will be available this Spring for all engine versions of the X1 and comprises suspension, exterior and interior components specially developed for this model.

They include sports suspension calibration and 17-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels for even sharper driving dynamics. Alternatively, the M Sports package can be supplied with 18-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels.
The M Sports package for the BMW X1 also features an M Aerodynamics package, door sills with the “M” logo and BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line trim for the side window surrounds and roof rails. Also available in conjunction with the M Sports package are the metallic exterior paint colours Alpine White, Le Mans Blue, Sapphire Black, Space Grey, Vermillion Red and Mineral White.

Sports seats upholstered in cloth/alcantara, an M leather-trimmed steering wheel with multifunction buttons and an M footrest for the driver add to the driving pleasure when the BMW X1 is equipped with the M Sports package. The high-end sporty theme is capped off by a BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite, dark cross-brushed aluminium interior trim, the M gearshift lever for vehicles with six-speed manual transmission and a leather handbrake lever gaiter.

The X1 with M Sport pack will be showcased at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show.

The engine can be matted to a 6-speed manual transmission or a 8-speed automatic transmission.

In the EU test cycle, the BMW X1 xDrive28i runs with 7.9 liters/100 km or 35.7 mpg imp (an improvement of 1.5 liters / 5.7 mpg), has CO2 emissions of 183 g/km (down by 38g).

Summary of Press Release BMW X1 xDrive28i

• World debut of a new generation of BMW 2.0-litre petrol engines; new BMW X1 xDrive28i is the first model to feature this innovative combination of hallmark BMW driving pleasure and efficiency.
• The first four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology offers a substantial power upgrade as well as a significant efficiency improvement; rated power: 180 kW/245 hp, rated torque: 350 Newton metres.
• • Closely modelled on the BMW in-line six-cylinder engines, the all-new
• 2.0-litre engine with all-aluminium crankcase comes with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology featuring high-performance twin-scroll turbocharging system, High Precision Injection direct petrol injection
• with innovative solenoid injectors, and the latest further enhanced version of the BMW-patented VALVETRONIC variable valve control system.
• • New engine generation constitutes the latest innovative highlight of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, 2.0-litre engine with torque upgrade compared to the previous engine and exceptionally low fuel consumption and emissions.
• • Equipped as standard with six-speed manual transmission or optionally with eight-speed automatic; extensive BMW EfficientDynamics features, including Auto Start-Stop function (manual transmission models).
• • New BMW X1 xDrive28i combines even more agility with significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions; average fuel consumption
• in the EU test cycle: 7.9 litres/100 km or 35.7 mpg imp (an improvement of 1.5 litres / 5.7 mpg), CO2 emissions: 183 g/km (down by 38 g), acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds (manual transmission) or 6.5 seconds (automatic transmission, down by 0.3 seconds).
• • Standard-fitted intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system calibrated for optimised driving dynamics; Performance Control optionally available.
• • M Sports package available as an option for all BMW X1 model versions.
• • Unique vehicle concept in the premium compact segment, typical
• BMW X styling features and driving qualities, extensive interior adaptability, uncompromising premium quality including outstanding build and materials, upscale interior trim, and innovative BMW ConnectedDrive options that include apps to receive internet radio stations and for in-car Facebook and Twitter use.

[Source: BMW ]

They include sports suspension calibration and 17-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels for even sharper driving dynamics. Alternatively, the M Sports package can be supplied with 18-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels.

The M Sports package for the BMW X1 also features an M Aerodynamics package, door sills with the “M” logo and BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line trim for the side window surrounds and roof rails. Also available in conjunction with the M Sports package are the metallic exterior paint colours Alpine White, Le Mans Blue, Sapphire Black, Space Grey, Vermillion Red and Mineral White.

Official photos will follow shortly

Sports seats upholstered in cloth/alcantara, an M leather-trimmed steering wheel with multifunction buttons and an M footrest for the driver add to the driving pleasure when the BMW X1 is equipped with the M Sports package. The high-end sporty theme is capped off by a BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite, dark cross-brushed aluminium interior trim, the M gearshift lever for vehicles with six-speed manual transmission and a leather handbrake lever gaiter.

[Source: BMW | Photo: Carscoop ]

BMW X1 is produced at the Leipzig plant in Germany and within the last twelve months, the sales have increased substantially and demand remains strong. The X1 is shaping up to be a successful model for BMW and it is interesting to see how it inserts itself onto the US market where BMW is already selling the premium X3 SAV and now the MINI Countryman.

For the US, BMW is likely to introduce the 28i and 35i models, in a rear-wheel drive and xDrive configuration. While there is no confirmation on a diesel engine, we certainly expect to see one of the award winning diesel turbos coming across the ocean, most likely, the 2.0 liter turbo diesel that powers the xDrive23d model in Europe or the 123d. In Canada, most likely a 25i model will be offered.

With the launch of the X1, BMW opened a new premium small SUV segment. First rivals are scheduled to appear in 2011 when Audi will unveil their Q3 model, followed shortly by Saab and its 9-4x. The other premium automakers, Mercedes-Benz and Infiniti, are also expected to launch similar models in the near future.

[Source: 123Auto ]

With the recent launch of the new X3, BMW has been aggressively marketing the premium compact SAV and an X1 offering could create a confusion among the buyers. The X1 initial rollout was planned for Spring-Summer of this year.

BMW X1 is produced at the Leipzig plant in Germany and within the last twelve months, the sales have increased substantially and demand remains strong.

So how long will we wait for the X1? Car and Driver quotes BMW Communication Manager Tom Plucinsky: ““Until fall of ’11 at the absolute earliest”.

The X1 continues to remain on schedule for the Canadian market with a Spring rollout and an appearance at the upcoming Montreal Auto Show.

[Source: C&D ]

In a previous article today, we anticipated the new X1 to debut in April at New York Auto Show, but our Canadian neighbors will have the honor to host one of BMW’s best seller vehicles in Europe.

No information have been revealed around the engine offerings, but in Europe, the X1 is offered with a rear-wheel drive and xDrive configuration, along with a variety of petrol and diesel engines.

For the US, BMW is likely to introduce the 28i and 35i models, in a rear-wheel drive and xDrive configuration. While there is no confirmation on a diesel engine, we certainly expect to see one of the award winning diesel turbos coming across the ocean, most likely, the 2.0 liter turbo diesel that powers the xDrive23d model in Europe or the 123d. In Canada, Auto123 speculates that a 25i model will be offered as well.

With the launch of the X1, BMW opened a new premium small SUV segment. First rivals are scheduled to appear in 2011 when Audi will unveil their Q3 model, followed shortly by Saab and its 9-4x. The other premium automakers, Mercedes-Benz and Infiniti, are also expected to launch similar models in the near future.

[Source: Auto123 ]

BMW X1 Photo Gallery

In the press release issued at the time, BMWNA refrained from confirming the engine options that will be offered, but a mention of rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive configurations, as well as a wide variety of gasoline and diesel powertrain choices, slipped into the press release.

Marketing was expected to begin in late 2010, but details around the U.S. bound X1 have been scarce in the year just passed.

In Europe, the X1 exceeded all the sales expectations and months after its launch, the small SAV became the top sold SUV.

For the U.S., we expect BMW to introduce the 28i and 35i models, in a rear-wheel drive and xDrive configuration. While there is no confirmation on a diesel engine, we certainly expect to see one of the award winning diesel turbos coming across the ocean, most likely, the 2.0 liter turbo diesel that powers the xDrive23d model in Europe or the 123d.

If a summer launch is still in schedule, we anticipate seeing an X1 U.S. model at the New York Auto Show in April.

[Source: xbimmers ]

Based on the photos below, the two cars are not only competing in the “Who’s bigger and better competition”, but also for similar customers. The two youngsters appeal to the same demographic, young professionals, outdoor active and last, but not least, loyal to the brand.

It will not be uncommon to see buyers migrating from one brand to another, or in this case, from the X1 to Countryman or vice-versa. Both vehicles offer an urban vehicle, versatile, fuel friendly and somewhat spacious.

The choice becomes even more confusing if BMW decides to price them in the same range, and with the new X1 making its debut in the U.S. next year, we certainly expect an entry-level price in the low 30s, similar to the MINI Countryman.

The X1 is based on the same platform as the xDrive BMW 3 Series Touring, Length and it measure 175 inches in length, 60.8 inches in height and 70.8 inches wide. MINI Countryman comes a bit short at 161.3 inches, 61.5 inches height and 70.4 wide.

The difference in trunk space is quite significant though, the X1 has a cargo capacity of 420 liters, which can increase to 480 liters with the back seats pulled a little to the front, and up to 1350 liters of storage space with the seats folded.

The back seat of the Countryman is a split-folding design, and cargo capacity jumps from 350 to 1,170 liters when it’s down, considerably lower than the X1.

Design wise, both cars maintain their brand’s DNA, with characteristic design elements and icons.

Recently, BMW X1 was crowned as Europe’s top selling premium SUV/SAV, so we look forward to see how the Countryman stacks up against the Audi Q5 or the Volvo XC60.

[Photos source: Auto Motor und Sport ]

The stainless exhaust system features four tailpipes each with 80mm diameter. The upgraded exhaust improves not only the appearance of the X1, but also the acoustics.

In Germany, the price for the Hartge X1 exhaust system was set at 1,785 euros, and as mentioned before, it is only available for the diesel models.

Petrol powered X1 models are expected to receive a similar exhaust system offering.

The X1 will have its own production line at the Kaliningrad plant and will appear at Russian dealers in October.
Initially, Avtotor expects to launch the production of the X1 sDrive18i Urban version priced at $42,000, as well as xDrive20d in Urban and Lifestyle versions priced at $50,000 and $55,000, respectively.

By the end of 2010, Avtotor plans to deliver 400 X1 models. According to the company’s plans, by the end of the current year, more than 400 X1 models are expected to be assembled in Russia, while the total volume of BMW cars to be produced at Avtotor this year will exceed 10,000 units.

According to the same report, both companies plan to expand their cooperation in Russia and in the long term, BMW and Avtotor plan to produce 50,000 units a year and to launch full-scale production, including welding and painting.

At the Kaliningrad plant, Avtotor also assembles the top X-models, BMW X5 and X6.

The new BMW X1 continues on its ascending path and recent reports confirm the X1 as being the top-seller premium SUV in Europe.

[Source: InsideLine ]

According to Automotive News, a combination of these factors has led to a high demand. Through July, BMW has sold 55,550 X1s. Since its market launch in late-October 2009, more than 64,049 X1s have been sold, the company said.

With the launch of the X1, BMW has opened a new premium small SUV segment. First rivals are scheduled to appear in 2011 when Audi will unveil their Q3 model, followed shortly by Saab and its 9-4x. The other premium automakers, Mercedes-Benz and Infiniti, are also expected to launch similar models in the near future.

The X1 currently costs at least 9,000 euros less than the other premium SUVs and will soon go head-to-head with the MINI Countryman, a vehicle with similar capabilities and expected to be priced in the same range.

At BMW, the X1 currently ranks fourth overall in the brand’s European sales after the 3, 1 and 5 Series models. Worldwide, the X1 is BMW’s No. 5-selling model, a ranking that should improve once U.S. sales start next year.

As BMW’s head of sales, Ian Robertson, mentioned as well, many customers have transitioned from the first generation BMW X3 which is being replaced by the end of this year.

Furthermore, BMW is seeing many customers coming from other non-premium brands, including Ford, VW and even Lancia.

In the U.S., BMW is expected to initially launch two models, X1 xDrvei28i and the twin-scroll turbocharged xDrvei35i.

1. BMW X1 44,067
2. Audi Q5 43,660
3. Volvo XC60 29,616
4. Land Rover Freelander 20,138
5. BMW X5 16,565

Source: JATO Dynamics

[Source: Auto News ]

Today, we have some new photos of the same color, this time featured on the BMW X1. Introduced last year, the BMW X1 Sports Activity Vehicle replaced the X3 as the entry-level model in the premium mid-compact SUV segment. Launched initially in Europe,, the BMW X1 is coming to the North American market in early 2011 with a variety of engines and options.

For the U.S., BMW will introduce the 28i and 35i models, in a rear-wheel drive and xDrive configuration. While there is no confirmation on a diesel engine, we certainly expect to see one of the award winning diesel turbos coming across the ocean.

Despite initial criticism and less-flattering reviews from Jeremy Clarkson himself, BMW’s CEO Norbert Reithofer, confirmed once again the success of this new X-model and the breakthrough into a new segment that focuses on a younger demographic, highly active, but still appreciative of performance.

“The BMW X1 has significantly exceeded even our own ambitious expectations: Since its introduction last fall, we have delivered more than 36,000 units to customers. “Among these customers are plenty of younger people for whom BMW was not a serious option before.”

The X1 is part of the latest BMW design language and some design cues are imported from the new 7 or 5 GT.