2012 BMW X1 xDrive28i and sDrive20d Series

This is the formula on which the 2012 BMW X1 is based. At first glance it is a compact BMW X model. The second glance comes with the challenge to explore something new. For example, an efficient SUV with BMW driving dynamics. Either with sDrive, with characteristic BMW rear-wheel drive that separates steering from the engine so that every wheel can carry out its own task to perfection. Or as xDrive, with the intelligent all-wheel drive system and optional Performance Control that combines traction and agility.  The powerful straight six-cylinder petrol and four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines work alongside BMW Efficient Dynamics, a package of intelligent measures such as the Auto Start Stop function, the gear shift indicator and Brake Energy Regeneration, to guarantee outstanding efficiency. The maximum five stars awarded in the Euro NCAP crash test unite a clear conscience with a reliable safety.

2012 BMW X1

Diesel engines are still good for surprises. The BMW X1 features the world‘s first four-cylinder diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo. Alongside the ultra-lightweight aluminium engine block, two different-sized turbochargers are deployed sequentially to deliver blistering power of up to 150 kW (204 hp) at any speed range. At the same time, fuel consumption is a surprisingly frugal 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

The BMW X1 also boasts BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Performance Control systems. Arriving at a test track consisting of loose gravel constructed to demonstrate the capabilities of these systems, the X1 engineers described how the systems work in conjunction with each other and then allowed us to try them out firsthand. Having the opportunity to briskly circle the track in various modes allowed me to feel how good the systems really are. Instead of applying abrupt slaps on the wrist like many vehicles, the X1 seamlessly reduces throttle where traction is lacking and even applies braking when needed. No understeer, no oversteer, no funny business.

2012 BMW X1 sDrive20d

2012 BMW X1 xDrive28i

BMW X1 it is difficult to argue with a 2.0-liter powerplant producing 295 ft-lbs of torque at 2000 rpm which sure came in handy heading up that mountain road. The sprint to 62 mph happens in a modest 7.3 seconds and turbo lag is all but eliminated. Power delivery is seamless and always there whether you want or need it. When the X1 arrives on our fair shores, it will likely be with the 3.0L in-line six-cylinder gasoline engine that boasts 230 hp and 200 ft-lbs of torque. It is a shame the diesel I drove is unlikely find itself on this side of the Atlantic. It offers the power of a six-cylinder engine with the economy of a four. In fact, highway mileage is an impressive 44 mpg.

The four-cylinder versions xDrive28i and sDrive18i impress thanks to their precise response and efficient fuel consumption. The BMW TwinPower Turbo in the BMW xDrive28i boasts spontaneous power build-up at all revs. Its rapid response converts the driver’s wishes directly into forward thrust. This 180 kW (245 hp) drive unit lets the facts supply the emotions: from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds with a fuel consumption of only 7.9 litres per 100 km. The sDrive18i has a little less spirit but offers an equal amount of driving pleasure. Modern valve technology supplies the motor with the correct quantity of air at all times. The 110 kW (150 hp) engine consumes 8.2 litres over 100 km and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds. 

2012 BMW X1

2012 BMW X1 Interior

The BMW X1 xDrive23d features the world's first four-cylinder diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo. Two different-sized turbochargers are deployed sequentially to deliver blistering power right across the rev range. At low revs, the small turbocharger works on its own to provide instantaneous throttle response. Third-generation common rail injection in the BMW X1 sDrive18d, BMW X1 xDrive18d, BMW X1 sDrive20d and BMW X1 xDrive20d ensures exceptional performance (up to 130 kW / 177 hp) in hand with unbeatable fuel consumption levels (starting at a frugal 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres). The diesel engines in the BMW X1 meet the EU5 emissions standard.

 

Only the rev counter will reveal how quickly and comfortably the new 8-speed automatic transmission Steptronic changes gear. The additional gears reduce the rev interval of the engine between shifts making them barely perceptible. At high speeds the eighth gear reduces revs to increase comfort and lower fuel consumption. The system is also supported by the newly developed converter clutch even if you use the electronic gearshift lever or the optional paddle switches on the steering wheel to change manually.

Smooth and responsive, the 6-speed manual transmission in the BMW X1 makes for dynamic driving at its best. Its standout features are the short-throw shifts, perfect ratios and optimum exploitation of torque. The closely spaced gear ratios and the addition of a sixth gear enable the driver to make even more individual use of the engine's characteristics. The optional 6-speed automatic transmission Steptronic delivers smooth driving with exceptional reaction speed, combining instant power when pulling out and reduced fuel consumption at high speeds. Both transmission systems provide maximum dynamic performance in the full speed range and unmatched efficiency for short and long distances alike.

The 2012 BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition

Whether you're at home in the wild or on the city streets, the BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition is always ready for spontaneous activities with fuel consumption of just 4.5 litres per 100 km. Its powerful 2.0-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo engine will set your pulse racing while, at the same time, keeping fuel consumption and emissions to an absolute minimum. To make all this possible, the BMW EfficientDynamics technology package pulled out all the stops, with modified engine design, electric power steering, improved gear shift indicator and aerodynamically optimised light-alloy rims. Never before have performance and common sense been brought so close together.