Renderings - India-bound 2016 BMW X1 takes shape

02/12/2014 - 19:22 | ,  ,   | Anjan Ravi

Will switch to the front-wheel drive layout.

As BMW prepares to unveil the second generation of its entry-level crossover offering, the X1, next year, early artist sketches seen here give an accurate look at what the Audi Q3 rival will be like.

2016 BMW X1 rendering
The new X1's engine range will start with the 1.5-liter three-cylinder units.

The overall shape of the new X1 is expected to be familiar to today's model, despite reports suggesting a reduced length of 100 mm. It might seem odd for a new generation automobile to reduce in size, as it is usually the other way around, but in the case of the new X1, there would be a second, seven-seater variant with a longer rear overhang in the future X1 range.

The new X1 will be the second BMW to use the Mini-derived front-wheel drive UKL architecture, after the 2 Series Active Tourer.

The absence of a transmission tunnel, and the new transversely mounted engine layout will free up cabin space for rear passengers, insiders have insisted. And speaking about the engine, base variants of the new X1 are reported to use the Mini's 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel engines.

2016 BMW X1 rendering front
The second generation crossover will also spawn a sporty X2 model.

At the top of the range will be the 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol and diesel mills, matched to an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual.

Also read: BMW says UKL architecture will make up 40 percent of sales

The new X1's platform will also spawn a sportier model referred to as the X2, the European media report. While we cannot speak of the X2, the new X1 is certainly India bound as it is BMW India's biggest volume spinning model. Expect the new X1 to reach Indian shores in 2016.

Competitors: Mercedes GLA, Audi Q3
Expected Price: INR 28–32 lakhs, ex-showroom
Launch Date in Europe: 2015

[Renderings from AutoBild and AutoMoto]

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