Recent news of the second-generation BMW X1 has gotten some BMW enthusiasts kind of upset with its switch to a front-wheel drive-based architecture. However, this is a good move for BMW as it helps them stay competitive in the hotly contested segment. These smallish luxury crossovers are becoming one of the most popular vehicles in the world. Their ability to blend comfort, performance and practicality are desired by the majority of families. What would make a small luxury crossover even more attractive to many families would be the addition of extra seats.
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So BMW has decided to give the people just that, as there will now be a BMW X1 with an extended wheelbase and an extra row of seats geared towards the Chinese market. The extended wheelbase BMW X1 will essentially be the same front-wheel drive based X1, based on BMW’s new UKL architecture, except it will have an extra row of seats, making it a seven seater.
Related: 2016 BMW X1 – First Drive
This new Chinese market BMW X1 has recently been spied testing and it looks incredibly similar to the standard car. In fact, you’d be very hard pressed to notice any actual details. The roofline is extended quite a bit and less sloping than the standard wheelbase model and the rear end is a bit taller. Also, the shape of the three-quarter glass seems to be a bit different than the standard car. Otherwise, the long-wheelbase BMW X1 will look just as attractive as the standard car.
I’m not sure how necessary the extra row is in an SUV as small as the X1, but it must be necessary enough for BMW to build it. The Chinese market values backseat space more than almost anything else, that’s why BMW builds long-wheelbase version of even the 3 Series for it. So it’s understandable why the X1 would be made as such for the Chinese market. However, it’s questionable how usable such rear seats would actually be and how much cargo space they would eat up when in use.
Overall, it makes sense such a car would exist for the Chinese market, but it’s only useful for a market that desires an extra row of seats over cargo space, even if those extra seats are barely usable.
I can’t wait to see this car live. I was super impressed with the one I drove and recommend it every time someone I know is looking for a new vehicle. This one looks even more impressive. It may very well be my next vehicle purchase.
You will love it! Just purchased this model 2 weeks go and it’s a great little SAV:)
I bought a CPO X5 D. What a machine. The X1 looks awesome.
Congrats on the new X5!
What’s CPO?
Certified Pre-Owned. I wanted to get out of my M4 Conv. when I saw the X5 in the lot and wanted the X1 diesel. The car was as new with less than 20K miles and offering a hard to pass on discount from new. For a big heavy car it gets a real 25mpg fully loaded with a 74mph avg speed on US highway. This vehicle is really great. I’m sure your X1 will put smiles on your face all the time. Mine does.
Here in North America we don’t have any engine options. Only the 2L turbo. Nice engine although I would have gone for a diesel if at all possible. No complaints though it takes premium fuel at $1.20 a litre. I actually don’t require the car everyday although I look for any occasion to take her out:)
So what color is your X5?
I have the Mineral grey metallic. Again not my first choice but there were very few choices here in Quebec!
My X5 is alpine white. I’m a white car guy. It pays in Florida. The mineral grey is awesome. I almost got my M4 in that color after seeing one on the lot. Super happy for you Howard. Enjoy that sweet car!
Lucky duck! That would have been my first choice. I find all beepers look great in white!
Especially the X models. Well enjoy yours as well. Aching for a little snow now to test out the IDrive. Just a few days of snow would suffice!
Cheers
I feel that way Howard, thanks. When my second driver in the family gets her license I plan on giving my wife the X5 and looking at something sporty again. Maybe the new alfa. Looks amazing. Or a Tesla S. I am really happy with the X5 it puts a smile on my face when I just touch the “throttle” on the highway and it goes 70-100 in a blink without anyone really noticing any drama. Major torque and efficiency. I feel like I’m driving hot rod when I pull up to the stop light and get the looks from people who know what they are looking at:) Not too many of these around. I imagine you have a similar feel. Enjoy your hot ride brother!
Yup. My first BMW and loving the attention a new model brings! Good times. Drive safely:)
Is possible check the safety in fog lights, because there is a gap at the edges and can intruducir a tool or finger because i purchase one in Peru and see this problem.
I checked mine and have no gaps that would allow a tool or finger to intrude into the surrounding structure. Sounds like a problem especially if water gets inside.
I wait this car , but I want to be like bmw x1 or santa fe , I don’t like to be long in the back like station car , I want to see jeep suv car from bmw , not station car ..
The 2016 X1 is a real SUV. High driving position and loads of space for passengers, even in the back seats, as well as cargo.
I love mine!