2016 BMW X1 To Feature Transverse Engine, FWD

The new X1 undergoes a major transformation, is now based on new UKL modular platform. 

The new BMW X1 is round the corner, as the German luxury car maker is seriously testing the prototypes of its next-generation baby crossover in various countries like China and Brazil. The new X1, codenamed as F48, is expected to be unveiled soon after June this year, most likely at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. An Indian launch may follow the global premiere, probably before 2016.

The compact crossover undergoes a major transformation altogether, as the new X1 is based on the new UKL modular platform, with a transverse engine and front wheel drive. This new platform is also shared with the new 2014 Mini Cooper which went on sale late last year.  The existing X1 is actually based on the E91 3-series wagon platform, and so it isn't an SUV at all theoretically. That doesn't mean that the new car is strictly an SUV, in fact the UKL platform also underpins BMW 2-Series Active Tourer. BMW is just streamlining its compact segment products to this platform. Personally the RWD is something I would rather like for X1. The ‘xDrive’ all-wheel drive system will continue to be optional as before anyway.

2016 BMW X1 rendering

The engine line-up may include 1.5-liter 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol, 1.5-liter three-cylinder diesel and a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel producing 168 bhp. A 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic transmissions are on the list, while India may get the latter only.

The exterior design of the new 2016 X1 is almost similar to the existing model, as understood from various spy-shots. The interiors receive new dashboard design and a redesigned steering wheel. The new FWD architecture may free up more space on the inside. There are also reports that the X1 will get a seven-seat variant, positioned slightly below the X3.

2014 BMW X1 that is currently on sale in India.

The X1 is currently imported to India via CKD route and is assembled at the company’s Chennai plant. The routine will continue for the 2016 BMW X1 as well.

Photo Credit: Newestcars2016, auto-moto, indianautosblog