UK paper gets to drive prototype BMW X1 xDrive 23d
BMW will unveiling the latest edition to its sport activity vehicle lineup this fall, probably at the Frankfurt Motor Show. While the new X1 isn't ready to be shown publicly just yet, the Munich automaker did let a writer from the Times of London take one for a preview drive in Spain. The X1 is slightly smaller than the Land Rover Freelander and will compete with the likes of the VW Tiguan and the upcoming Audi Q3. The BMW will be launched with a trio of engines including the normally aspirated 3.0-liter 6-cylinder gas unit from the 328i. However the vast majority of sales are expected to go to a pair of 2.0-liter four cylinder diesel engines in 177 hp and 204 hp form as found in the 120d and 123d.
The Times' Andrew Frankel found the X1 to be a bit to close to the ground to be useful off-road. However, few people ever use these vehicles in such a way. For them, the on-road dynamics are vastly more important. Frankel found that the X1 exhibits the handling expected of its brand and it should get excellent mileage to boot. Even in 204 hp form the diesel should average about 36 mpg (U.S.). That's consistent with the 37 mpg we recorded in a 123d with the same engine last year.
[Source: The Times]
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