BMW has started accepting bookings for the X1 long-wheelbase SUV in India, weeks ahead of its launch on August 21. The BMW X1 LWB is a stretched version of the standard X1 and the ICE counterpart to the iX1 LWB EV, both of which are already sold in India. Upon launch, the X1 LWB will be BMW’s most accessible combustion-powered long-wheelbase model here.
BMW X1 LWB exterior design
Developed initially for China, the BMW X1 LWB measures 4,616mm in length, 1,845mm in width and 1,641mm in height, with a 2,802mm wheelbase. Compared to the standard X1, it's 116mm longer, has a 110mm longer wheelbase and is 11mm taller. The styling remains largely unchanged, with sleek LED headlights and tail-lights, large kidney grilles and a relatively low-slung crossover-like profile.
In China, the X1 LWB comes with 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, while 20-inch wheels are available as an option. However, BMW could use smaller wheels on the India-spec version for better ride quality, as the standard X1 and iX1 LWB sold here get 18-inch wheels.
BMW X1 LWB interior and features
Inside, the X1 LWB follows the same layout as the standard X1, but rear passengers get more space. Legroom has increased, while the seat height is up by 27mm and the headrest cushions are 37mm wider. Boot space has also grown to 540 litres, compared with 476 litres in the standard SUV.
Among the features expected are a 10.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, wireless charging, powered front seats, automatic climate control and a powered tailgate. It is also expected to get a digital key, Harman Kardon sound system, connected car technology and auto park assist.
BMW X1 LWB engine and gearbox options
While the India-spec X1 is available with 136hp 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbo-petrol (sDrive18i) and 150hp 2-litre 4-cylinder diesel (sDrive18d) options, the China-spec X1 LWB gets a different engine. It's offered in sDrive25Li and xDrive25Li versions, both using a 2-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that produces 204hp and 300Nm. The engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
The sDrive25Li FWD version can accelerate from 0-100kph in 7.9 seconds, while the xDrive25Li AWD takes 7.7 seconds. Both have a top speed of up to 229kph.
BMW X1 LWB price estimate and positioning
With the standard X1 is priced between Rs 50.9 lakh and Rs 52.9 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, the X1 LWB is expected to command a slight premium. This could be more pronounced if BMW brings the more powerful 2-litre turbo-petrol engine to India. The X1 LWB will also occupy a unique position, as there are currently no long-wheelbase entry-level luxury SUVs that directly rival it. Like the X1 and iX1 LWB, the X1 LWB will be locally assembled in India at BMW's Chennai plant.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Dhruv Dhaka
Saptarshi Mondal
