BMW updates X1 and releases 3-Series M Sport package

BMW is not allowing its new luxury rival Infiniti to draw any oxygen in the prestige vehicle space, revealing updates and changes to its volume selling X1 and 3 Series range, designed to keep the Bavarian brand top of mind with luxury car buyers.

Hard on the heels of announcing a limited-time fixed-price servicing deal across its range, BMW has announced a comprehensive mid-life update for its X1 compact SUV we first reported back in May, plus details of an M Sport Package for its top-selling 3 Series Sedan.

The bigger news is with the X1 which has copped a comprehensive mid-life update that includes a new eight-speed transmission, the latest TwinPower engines, and a mild interior and exterior refresh. 

Three new engines join the established X1 xDrive20d, including two petrol models, the X1 sDrive20i and X1 xDrive28i, and a new entry-level diesel, the X1 sDrive18d.

Both the sDrive20i and xDrive28i are powered by a 2.0 litre four-cylinder engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct Injection, and variable valve timing. The X1 sDrive20i produces 135kW/270 Nm and, coupled with the standard six-speed manual, accelerates from 0-to-100km/h in 7.4 seconds. The X1 xDrive28i bumps power and torque to 180kW/350Nm, taking 6.1 seconds for the same sprint.

The entry-level diesel X1 sDrive18d shares the same basic engine construction as the X1 xDrive20d, meaning an all-aluminium 2.0-litre, four-cylinder TwinPower turbodiesel. The entry level model delivers 105kW/320Nm and stops the clocks for the 0-100km/h dash at 9.6 seconds. The X1 xDrive20d, meanwhile, musters 135kW/380Nm and reaches 100km/h in 8.1 seconds.

All models now have the option of a new eight-speed automatic transmission, plus a range of other fuel-saving technologies including Brake Energy regeneration, auto Stop-Start on both manual and automatic transmissions, Eco Pro mode and an Optimum Shift point indicator for manual models.

BMW says the combination of new engines, new auto transmission and adoption of the various EfficentDynamics features delivers class-leading efficiency and emissions for all models.

The X1’s lines have also been updated with a range of styling enhancements including new fog lamp surrounds, new side indicators integrated into the exterior mirrors, and new headlamps. When specified with the optional Xenon lights, white LED corona rings and a white LED eyebrow element add a distinctive new look.

The cabin features new, higher quality materials covering the centre console, new centre panel trim surrounds and new chrome trim elements, while standard equipment levels have also been boosted across the range.

Pricing kicks off at $44,500 for the X1 sDrive18d, rises to $46,500 for the X1 sDrive20i, to $54,500 for the X1 xDrive20d, and tops out at $57,800 for the X1 xDrive28i. The new auto adds $2693 to these prices with the exception of the xDrive28i which adds $3500 thanks to the luxury car tax. 

“The mid-life update of the BMW X1 reaffirms its position at the top of what has become a highly competitive environment in the compact SAV segment,” said BMW Group Australia Managing Director, Phil Horton.

“Now equipped with the latest generation of BMW engines and a significantly enhanced interior, yet remaining exceptional value, the X1 is again setting the pace” said Mr Horton.

Meanwhile, the German prestige marque has also updated its 3 Series range with a new M Sport Package designed to enhance the dynamic character of its mid-size flagship.

The M Sport Package includes sport suspension that lowers ride height by 10mm, 19-inch light-alloy wheels and an aerodynamics package.

The exterior features a new high-gloss Shadow Line treatment for the eight-bar kidney grille, while on the inside there’s an M Sport leather steering wheel, Dakota leather upholstery, Anthracite roofliner, M door sill trims, Aluminium interior trim, sports seats and unique instrument cluster.

The M Sport Package can be further enhanced with additional options such as M Sport brakes, and reduced pricing for the Adaptive M suspension.

Phil Horton said more than a quarter of all previous generation 3 Series sold in Australia had been optioned with the M Sport Package.

“The 3 Series has always had the sporting edge in this class and the new M-Sport package epitomises that character,” he said.

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