In true BMW tradition, the Concept X1 is expected to be almost identical to the final production version due towards the end of next year. It resembles a shrunk-down version of the X5 SUV with some elements from the X6 thrown in, and a healthy share of typical BMW styling to fill in the rest.
At the front, six contour lines and the three-dimensional shape of the bonnet project a sporty appearance. The inner lines taper out sharply to the front towards the BMW kidney grille, whilst the outer lines continue into the shoulder contours at the side.
The Concept X1 comes with dual round headlights cut off at the top and accented with a white-colored horizontal cover at the top edge. Typical of BMW X models, the fog lamps are positioned far to the outside, just above the air intake scoop.
The side view of the BMW Concept X1 also comes with all the typical features of a BMW X model, with short front overhangs, large wheel arches with almost square contours and the waistline made slightly lower around the A-pillars.
Black plastic body surrounds emphasize the wheels, while silver roof rails adds a sporty look. The concept also features BMW’s new L-shaped rear light clusters, featuring LED light tubes. Like the front, the rear features underfloor protection finished in silver.
As a special design feature specific to this model, three-dimensional contours encompass the headlights and rear light clusters to make them stand out.
Does BMW need a smaller SUV?
No details about the concept’s powertrain have been revealed but the production model due next year is expected to feature a similar lineup to BMW 1 and 3-series ranges. At launch the X1 is expected to feature two engines: a 170hp (126kW) 2.0L petrol unit and a 177hp (132kW) 2.0L diesel.
Production of the X1 is expected to top the 100,000 mark and will start at a BMW plant in Leipzig by the middle of next year. The X1 will be priced higher than the 1-series, likely starting close to the $30,000 mark in the United States.
Much of the car’s components will also be shared with an upcoming SUV model from Mini. A concept version of the Mini SUV will also be in Paris, but you can see the vehicle in our previous story by clicking here.
Reader Comments
Fri Sep 26 2008 9:23 AM
NoNameDenton says
Please let the rumors of the 3 door X2 SAV not be true.
Tue Sep 30 2008 11:20 PM
NoNameDenton says
Looks kinda like a mini BMW Infiniti CUV
Wed Oct 1 2008 6:10 PM
NaBUru38 says
The X1 is too long. More precisely, the engine compartment is too long.
Wed Oct 1 2008 7:28 PM
azlan says
they have got an x5 and an x3 why the hell did they waste time and money on making this its not even very good looking.if this replaces the x3 then thats ok but its still ugly and could have done alot better.
Tue Oct 14 2008 2:43 PM
james says
the x1 render was better looking than this, i swear it looks like a surprised rhino sticking out its tongue
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