The second-generation BMW X1 is finally here and aims to deliver an even more compelling product than the highly successful first X1. Last week, we went to Austria to test drive the new F48 X1 and our driving impressions can be found here. We also bring you a new photo gallery highlighting the beautiful lines and premium cabin of the X1.

The new 2016 BMW X1 has grown quite a bit over the previous model, sprouting 53 millimeters in height, with a 36 millimeter raise in the front seating position, to give the X1 a more commanding view of the road. This increase in size, and switch to front-wheel drive architecture, has also given the X1 better interior space, to the tune of 37 millimeters more rear knee room and 85 liters more cargo space, bringing the total to 505 liters. With the rear seats folded down, the X1 has 1,550 liters of cargo space.

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The extra growth of the X1 has worked wonders on the somewhat cramped original model’s interior, but it’s also given the exterior styling quite a more masculine feel.

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Engine options for the new 2016 BMW X1 will be a bunch of 2.0 liters, two petrol and two diesel. There will be an X1 xDrive20i, xDrive25i, xDrive18d and xDrive25d as well as an sDrive20i which will be front-wheel drive. All engines will displace 2.0 liters and all will feature BMW’s TwinPower turbocharger technology. The xDrive25i and xDrive25d have 231 horsepower, but the petrol engine will have 258 lb-ft of torque and the diesel will have 332 lb-ft. An Aisin eight-speed automatic will be standard on most models, with the xDrive18d being available with a newly designed six-speed manual.

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The BMW X1 xDrive28i will be the exclusive model in the US at launch featuring a 2.0 liter TwinTurbo 4 cylinder engine from BMW’s new family of modular engines with maximum output of 228 horsepower. No diesel X1 is planned for the U.S. market.

Click below for the photo gallery: