India bound BMW X1 facelift launched in Malaysia

BMW has launched the facelift version of the entry-level crossover, the X1, in Malaysia. The new version debuted at the 2012 New York Auto Show – that is when BMW started selling this model in the US. This model was later launched in the Europe as the facelift and will be made available in India soon.

The design tweaks to the X1 facelift include revised headlamp console, new bumper, modified front grille and sleeker ORVMs. On the inside, there are hardly any changes expect new colour tones, bit of chrome, new upholstery and few additions to the trim options.

The X1 facelift on sale in Malaysia gets a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit churning out 184bhp and 270Nm of peak torque – upgrade from the naturally aspirated mill in the predecessor. The engine is mated to 8-speed AT transmission and start/stop feature for better efficiency and emissions.

In India, the facelift will continue to be powered by 2.0-litre 177bhp turbo diesel engine; however, the power rating is expected to improve to 380Nm. We are also expecting BMW to offer 4x4 version to compete with the Audi Q3 Quattro. There is still no confirmation from BMW India regarding the launch of the X1 facelift, but our sources inform that the model will be made available in India with a marginal price hike by January 2013.

We hope to get more information about the X1 facelift at the launch of the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe later this week.