BMW X1: Variants explained

Currently, in its second generation, the BMW X1 is the smallest SUV in the brand’s lineup that attracts auto-enthusiasts with its unique styling, ergonomics, and powerful performance. In the local market, the SUV comes in two trims - sDrive18i and sDrive20i M SPORT, both are locally assembled (CKD) at the brand’s Kulim plant. Here we have a complete breakdown of the BMW X1 variants in terms of exterior, interior, performance, and safety. But, before diving into that, let’s have a look at the price list.

BMW X1 price list

Variant	Price (with SST rebate)	Price (without SST rebate)
BMW X1 sDrive18i	RM 194,738	RM 202,170
BMW X1 sDrive20i M SPORT	RM 216,780	RM 225,170

Note: The mentioned SST rebate is available till the end of December 2021.

Exterior

Outfitted with the M Sport package, the BMW X1 sDrive20i boasts a strong road presence with a large kidney grille, large air intakes, and hexagonal-shaped LED headlights. At the back, it features a single LED bar drawing the familiar L signature. Also, part of the kit is BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line, Welcome Light Carpet, LED fog lights, M Aerodynamics Package, anti-dazzle side mirrors with auto-fold function, rain sensor automatic activation for windscreen wipers and driving lights, and 18-inch M light-alloy wheels in Double-Spoke Style.

The BMW X1 sDrive18i, on the other hand, gets the same look with satin-finish aluminium roof rails and exterior trim, LED headlights, and tail lights, LED fog lights, anti-dazzle side mirrors with auto-fold function, rain sensor wipers, and driving lights, and 17-inch light-alloy wheels in V-spoke style 560. 

BMW offers the X1 in different colour options, including

BMW X1 sDrive20i M SPORT	Misano Blue, Black Sapphire, Alpine White, and Mineral Grey
BMW X1 sDrive18i	Alpine White, Mediterranean Blue, Black Sapphire, and Mineral Grey

Interior

While the interior appointments of the two SUVs are pretty much the same, the top-spec sDrive20i sets itself apart with several M Sport-specific components. These are M leather steering wheel, car’s key with M badge, M door sill finishers, and floor mats in M design.

Let’s compare the other features:

Specs	BMW X1 sDrive20i M SPORT	BMW X1 sDrive18i
Instrument cluster	5.7-inch TFT	5.7-inch TFT
Infotainment screen	8.8-inch infotainment display with Navigation system	8.8-inch infotainment display with Navigation system
Automatic air conditioning	Two-zone	Two-zone
Ambient lighting	Yes	Yes
Interior mirror	Anti-dazzle	Anti-dazzle
Seats	Sport seats for driver and front passenger	No sport seats
Seats adjustability	Power-adjustable front seats with memory function for driver	Power-adjustable front seats with memory function for driver
Design pack	BMW Individual headliner anthracite, Aluminium interior trims with Pearl Chrome	Black high-gloss interior trim finishers with Pearl Chrome highlight
Upholstery	Black Leather Dakota upholstery with perforations	Black Leather Dakota.

Engine and performance

Under the hood, different BMW X1 variants are fitted with different engines. Here, we have a comparison -

Specs	BMW X1 sDrive20i M SPORT	BMW X1 sDrive18i
Engine	2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol	1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol
Max Power	192 hp at 5,000-6,000 rpm	140 hp at 4,600 - 6,500 rpm
Max Torque	280 Nm at 1,350 to 4,600 rpm	220 Nm at 1,480 - 4,200 rpm
Transmission	7-speed Steptronic double clutch Sport	7-speed Steptronic double clutch
0-100 kmph acceleration	7.6 seconds	9.6 seconds
Top speed	224 kmph	201 kmph
Fuel economy	6.5  litres per 100 km (15.38 kmpl)	6.3 litres per 100 km (15.87 kmpl)

Both variants come equipped with a 7-speed Steptronic double-clutch transmission offering smooth gearshifts and outstanding driving comfort. They are also mated to dynamic cruise control that proves its utility in long and continuous driving conditions. Overall, we can say both versions offer you a very playful and relaxed drive, however, with the M sport package you can also turn sporty. 

Safety

When it comes to safety, no trim will disappoint you as both are fitted with the same safety suite comprising a long list of active and passive features. These are -

• Six airbags
• Dynamic braking lights with flashing function
• Dynamic Stability Control
• Dynamic Brake Control
• Electronic Differential Lock System
• Performance Control and Antilock Braking System
• ISOFIX 
• Attentiveness assistant
• Cruise Control with braking function
• Parking Assistant
• Rearview camera
• Driving Assistant pack, including Lane Departure Warning, front collision warning with brake intervention, high-beam assistant, and Speed Limit Info

Summing up

In a nutshell, we can say the two BMW X1 variants are almost identical in terms of looks and features but mechanical setup and cosmetics set them apart. Which version of the entry-level BMW suits your style, let us know in the comments.

Also read: BMW X7 vs Audi Q7: Spec-to-spec comparison