Updated April 9, 2015 with video:
Updated March 17, 2015:
The Nurburging is open for manufacturer testing and the X1 has returned for more performance development.
The F48 X1 rides on BMW's UKL platform and will come in both FWD and AWD models while engine offerings will range from 3 to 4 cylinders.
Our
2016 model map shows that the US will receive both a sDrive25i and xDrive25i. Production of the sDrive25i begins in November 2015 and xDrive25i in July.
Recent photos fully revealing major parts of the F48 X1:
The upcoming 2015 F48 X1 has dropped its heavy camouflage to reveal much more exterior styling details, as well as much of the production headlights and tail lights.
As the previous spy photos previewed, the F48 X1 front end looks more sport-utility than the current X1 and the high cutline of the current X1 now meets the kidney grilles, a trend we're seeing in all future models we've spied (G11 7 Series / G30 5 Series).
The F48 X1 will make a switch from RWD to FWD. It's been built on BMW's FWD UKL platform and should be offered in both FWD and AWD models. The UKL platform will also underpin the next generation 1 Series and is already being used on the 2 Series Active Tourer and the new MINI.
Engines will range from 3 to 4 cylinders and
recent info has shown that the US will receive at least an sDrive25i and xDrive25i, with production beginning in July 2015 for the xDrive and November 2015 for the sDrive model, subject to change. There will also be a long wheelbase version X1 (F49) offered, perhaps for the Chinese market only.
The new X1 may have its premier by next Summer (2015), followed by an auto show debut in the Fall and a market launch in early 2016. An X2 sibling may join the lineup a year later.