The face-lifted BMW X1 was revealed at the 2012 New York motor show and has a range of upgrades to keep it fresh against rivals such as the Audi Q3 and Mazda CX-5.
Cosmetic changes for the 2012 X1 include updates for the front grille, bumpers, headlights, side sills and door mirrors (which now have side-repeaters). The interior has been refreshed, too, with classier trim and a new centre console.
There are new engines, too, with four upgraded 2.0-litre diesel engines. The sDrive (rear-wheel drive) and xdrive (four-wheel drive) variants of the 141bhp 18d and 181bhp 20d engines are cleaner and more efficient than the units they replace.
The new sDrive 20d Efficient Dynamics model is available with a six-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel-drive only. It develops 161bhp and emits just 119g/km of CO2 – placing it in road tax band C, the lowest rating for the X1 range.
At the top of the range, the new xDrive25d replaces the current range-topping 23d. This is available in four-wheel-drive only, and is cleaner and more efficient despite an increase in power from 201bhp to 215bhp.
All models have a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a new optional eight-speed automatic gearbox reduces CO2 emissions and fuel consumption even further.
The existing SE and M Sport trims continue, and are joined by two new trims: Sport and xLine. Sport slots into the range above SE, and comes with 17-inch alloys, gloss-black exterior trim and sports seats. The new xLine trim sits above Sport, and includes 18-inch alloys, aluminium-finish exterior trim and leather upholstery.
Prices for the 2012 BMW X1 start at £24,660, which is £115 less than the previous entry point, thanks to its lower tax liability. There are similar reductions for most models, although the range-topping xdrive25d will cost from £31,860, an increase of £2005 over the outgoing 23d.
The 2012 BMW X1 is available to order now, with first deliveries expected in July.
