A camouflaged prototype of the 2016 BMW X1 was spotted testing in Europe by Auto Plus reader 'DVCH99'. Under the skin, the second generation of BMW's entry level Sports Activity Vehicle will have very less in common with the current car.
The most significant change will be the shift in the drive from the rear wheels to the front wheels as the next generation X1 would sit on BMW's modular UKL FWD platform that debuted in the new MINI. Just like the current model, higher variants of the SUV will be equipped with xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This 3,000-odd Euro option is not offered in the Indian X1 variants.
The platform is likely to make the new model shorter than the outgoing one but the elimination of a transmission tunnel usually frees up legroom. The same platform will be shared by the soon-to-be-launched 2 Series Active Tourer and the next generation 1 Series.
A close look at the spyshots reveal that the new X1 would adopt the latest BMW signature with headlamps flowing into the kidney grill and L-shaped LED taillight elements. We also expect the fender gills to find its place in the upcoming model.
The next gen X1 would derive its motivation from a set of three- and four-cylinder petrol and diesel motors with displacements ranging from 1.5-litre (three-cylinder) to 2.0-litre (four -cylinder). A 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic gearbox will harness the power.
The new X1 will launch in Europe in 2015, and should promptly grace India about 6-8 months from the international launch.
[Source: Reporter.Autoplus.fr]
