2011 BMW X1 SUV spied almost undisguised
June 11, 2009 by George Skentzos
While BMW may have released its own ‘official’ spy shots of the upcoming X1 SUV, our very own spy photographers are still one step ahead, capturing a near undisguised prototype on the road.
Despite featuring full time four-wheel-drive, the BMW X1 will likely stick to green-laning – sharing the same sized footprint as Ford’s Kuga and the Toyota RAV4.
It won’t share their price however, with the X1 expected to start from around A$55,000 in Europe.
The cabin will share a high degree of commonality with the 1-series, complete with the latest iDrive and BMW’s signature swan-necked gearlever.
As with all new BMW models, the X1 will feature the efficient Dynamics technology – the intelligent system that utilises stop-start systems, intelligent alternator control and other green initiatives to boost economy and slash emissions.
The petrol engine line-up will include an entry-level 2.0-litre unit in 107 and 127kW guise and a 3.0-litre straight-six, good for 198kW.
The initial diesel range will consist of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine available with 107kW, 132kW and 152kW outputs.
Print it: 
WHAT? So whats the point of the X3? Unless they intend to discontinue that range?
I REALLY LIKE THIS! i didnt think i would, but that’s awesome!
Andy, the X3 is going to get bigger. But it’s all a bit confusing right now.
I don’t mind it, but it does look a bit awkward. However, I have read reviews for the 23d version (sill disguised, but almost finished) and apparently it is fantastic. The driving experience leaves it with no competitors one reviewer wrote.
Alex,I reckon you must be really rich,they say loaded people have no taste.This thing is pig ugly.
BMW have managed to out niche themselves. Why do they need this along with the X6, and X3, and X5. next were getting that pas thing. Come on Bimmer go back to making the ultimate driving machines.
With 2.0L twin turbo from 123d.
Would be COOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL car !!!!
wtf? starts at 55K?
I thought thats where the X3 started from?
Why the hell would you price a X1 in the same price range as the X3?
Isnt the whole point of this car to compete against Tiguans, CRV, RAV4, Forester etc etc?
BMW just pricing yourselfs out of the market right there. Stupid.
stupid price……………….
This thing looks X3 size, I don’t see the point they should have made it a lot smaller.
What exactly is the point of this car?
May as well make an X7 now as well to finish the range. To compete with Landcruiser or Hummer H1, or does the X5 already do this?
Come to think of it they should make the X7 next it can be called a Special Never off Bituemen Luxury Utility Vehicle, a SNOBLUV if you will.
TOO pricy…… but it look much better than stupid X3…
Q5 is the best looking
$55k seems a lot as it would leave much room between X1 and X5 for the X3 in terms of pricing. However, the next X3 will become bigger, my guess is around 4.6-4.7m in length, this will create X1, X3 and X5 range with body length ranging from 4.5 to more than 4.8m. Instead of ever finding new niche market, i’d love to see BMW come out with a M3 CSL or a R8 competitor, seems that BMW is becoming too focused on niche vehicle and new age activity vehicles, whatever that is…
TSI, i don’t like the Q5’s styling, looks really bland, like nothing stands out at all, but guess beauty is a personal thing. Not a fan of the styling of X1 or X3 either, personally i like GLK more in this class, pity not made with RHD.
Looks like this car had caught swine flu.
Maybe this will replace the current X3 since it was so unsuccessful.
But Left Lane Lover, I didn’t say I liked it and I didn’t say it looked good. I said I didn’t mind it and there’s plenty of difference. I would never buy one and I don’t think it looks that good, I just don’t think it’s as bad as the X3 and there are still plenty of uglier cars in this world. All I praised it for was it’s apparent on road excellence; something we could see more of in this sector.
You’re right, it is completely tasteless. But then it is a compact SUV so one can only expect so much as far as taste and looks go.
Almost as ugly as the X3…
But I guess their market research shows people will buy these at the respective price point.
I’d get a second hand X5!
Also read the review of the 23d for this. Seems a fantastic car to drive with a nice ride, also seems to have addressed the problems everyone was complaining about with the X3.
But yep from concept and spy shots, it doesn’t look too nice exterior wise. Abit too much like the X3 for my liking. Also with the 3 series GT given the go ahead seemingly, where does that leave the X1?
BARF
Is that a Ssang Yong?
Shak Im with you on this………..Another SUV BMW?
Cyster, you is sooooooo UUUUUUUUUGLY!
Not you, Bavarian Missile. ;)
oooh… i’m loving the front lights :D
I ♥ BMW.
They just don\’t stop making great cars.
This will most likely join the X5 and X6 in being a very nimble SAV (as they call, Sports Activity Vehicle). I don\’t remember if the X3 was noted for it\’s sharp dynamics. All I know is its due for a new model. Sorry BMW, but it doesn\’t match your newer more beautiful cars. This on the other hand, looks like it will be a good looker.
Thank you BMW
:P
My comment stuffed up somehow :S
What the hell happened there?
Anyways, I just read the comment before, the Q5 is nice but I don’t see it as being very driver focused. The styling is simple and elegant but I think Beemers are more to my taste. I do really like the new Audis though. Give me an A4, A5 or unfacelifted A6 anyday!
Nah…yuck. Audi Q5 is on the money!!!!!!! ;-)
New features and 2.0 twin turbo sounds interesting. This BMW X1 has potential. Though, I have to comment on the design,BMW just make this car plain! Those black lines makes this car look ugly!
Looks disgusting; cross between a smashed up Nissan Dualis with a new Subaru Impreza hatch rear.
BMW ahead of the trend again, these will be way popular in a couple years. Look at the X3 size car
Ugly.
Ugly.
Ugly.
Only a blind person could think it looks alright.
Oh i forgot to praise C/A, well done to C/A!!, i believe you have a WORLD EXCLUSIVE photos of the said X1.
I just realised that NO OTHER motoring website i surf/visit/read [thats most of them here and o/s]ONLY C/A has shown the car without that silly white camo that BMW use to hide its newset prototypes.
How do you guys do it, can understand here in Oz, but have you guys have a man on the ground O/S?
PS/ Like the X1, not as much as *her* though lol
Cheers
F-0