BMW has confirmed prices for the new plug-in hybrid xDrive25e version of its second-generation X1 – and confirmed that the same powertrain will appear in the X2 later this year.
Available to order now from £38,200 and with deliveries beginning in March, the five-seat SUV will be capable of up to 35 miles of electric range on the WLTP test cycle. It uses an updated version of the petrol-electric hybrid driveline used in the 225xe Active Tourer.
The X1 xDrive25e will be available in Sport Line, xLine and M Sport trim levels in the UK. Standard equipment includes 17in alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, LED headlights and sports seats.
A turbocharged 1.5-litre three cylinder petrol engine, making 123bhp and 169lb ft of torque, combines with an electric motor, making 94bhp and 122lb ft, mounted in the rear axle assembly. These deliver a total output of 217bhp and 284lb ft.
The transversly mounted engine sends its reserves exclusively to the front wheels via a six-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox, while the electic motor powers the rear wheels. This setup that provides the X1 xDrive25e with front, rear and four-wheel drive capability, depending on the driving mode.
BMW quotes a 0-62mph time of 6.9sec and top speed of 120mph. Combined fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are put at 134.5–148.7mpg and 43-48g/km respectively, depending on trim and wheel size.
Energy for the X1 xDrive25e’s electric motor is provided by 9.7kWh lithium ion battery. This uses BMW’s latest battery cell technology to give an electric-only range of 35 miles at speeds of up to 84mph.
The battery can be charged either on standard household mains or via a high-power wallbox installation. By packaging the lithium ion unit beneath the rear seats, BMW has retained the nominal 450-litre boot capacity of existing petrol and diesel X1 models.