Spied - India-bound 2016 BMW X1 testing in China

24/06/2014 - 17:10 | ,  ,   | Nithyanandh K

The 2016 BMW X1 was recently spied testing in Europe and now the test mules of the next gen crossover have surfaced in China.

2016 BMW X1 spied China front three quarters
The 2016 BMW X1 would be based on the UKL front wheel drive platform.

The design is expected to be an evolution of the existing model with the front and rear fascias subscribing to BMW's latest family design language. Expect a lower slung stance with sharper elements and revised LED taillights. The interior is also expected to receive noticeable enhancements.

2016 BMW X1 spied China rear
The new model would adopt the brand's latest design language.

The new car will be underpinned by the modular UKL front wheel drive platform (the current X1 is based on a RWD platform) that debuted on the new MINI. The upcoming 2 Series Active Tourer and the next gen 1 Series are also based on the UKL platform.

International media reports suggest that the next gen X1 could be smaller than the outgoing version but the FWD layout is expected to free-up more legroom, especially at the rear.

2016 BMW X1 spied China side
The international debut is expected sometime in 2015.

The entry level models would be powered by the new family of downsized 1.5-litre three cylinder petrol and diesel engines while more powerful versions would be propelled by 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel motors. The higher end variants will be equipped with xDrive all wheel drive system but it remains to be seen whether BMW will introduce xDrive in the India bound X1.

The 2016 BMW X1 is expected to make its global debut sometime in 2015. India should get the next gen model a few months after its international launch given that models like the X1 are important volume spinners for the brand here. The new X1 will compete with the Audi Q3 and the new Mercedes GLA, both of which are based on front wheel drive architectures.

[Source: Chesi.com]

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