The 2020 BMW X1 and 1 Series Are Finally Here

BMW is getting busy these days with the release of the updated version of its popular crossover, the BMW X1 and the newly-redesigned, all-new BMW 1 Series.

Both models received a number of tweaks in the interior and exterior, and here are some notable changes they’ve made on these models:

2020 BMW X1

The X1 has made changes to its kidney grille. Now bolder and more assertive, it gives a more expansive feel to the front, giving it a more confident stance that means business from the get-go.

Meanwhile, the LED headlights are interesting to look at. It’s not spectacular-looking, we admit, but we like how they played with angles here without going overboard. The two lights give a sense of order and proportion, but their overlapping, uneven lids shake the design subtly to make them look edgier.

Interior-wise, the X1 pretty much remained the same, save for some nips and tucks in the center stack, dashboard design, gear selector, and instrument panel. We like how they added those small accents, such as the contrast stitches on the floor mats and instrument panel, or even the piano black trimmings. They’re not that noticeable at first, but it made the interior look classier and elegant.

The X1’s eight-speed automatic X1 has a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel engine that can churn out 148-hp and 330-Nm of torque.

2020 BMW 1

The newest BMW X1 now uses the UKL platform, and changed from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive. Consequently, this has made the cabin and rear legroom more spacious, while increasing cargo volume at the same time.

The exterior also sports a kidney grille, with large alloy wheels and cool-looking headlights. The rear roofline has been tapered off, and with that distinctive L-shaped taillights, give a more dynamic facade–even at the back.

We noticed that the all-new 1 Series’ distinctive cabin design has more curves compared to other BMW models. The instrument panel is fully digitized, allowing drivers to simultaneously view media information, navigation, and instrument gauges on the screen.

The BMW 1 Series has also has an updated iDrive infotainment system (and navigation), with dual-zone automatic climate control system to make the interior more comfortable for everyone on board.

Fitted with a 1.5-liter turbocharged, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and three-cylinder engine, the newest 1 Series offers 138-hp and 220 Nm of torque. It takes around 8.5 seconds for it to go from 0 to 100 km/h. 

Sportier, Spunkier Variants

Here’s a tip: those who want a spunkier, more high-achieving 1 Series can go for the M135ixDrive. Charged with 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo, 1.5 liter engine, it can squeeze out an impressive 301-hp and a nasty 450-Nm of torque. It can reach 0-100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. Really–it’s not bad for a hatchback, right?

Meanwhile, those who want a sportier model can go for the 118i hatchbacks, which feature gloss black highlights in the exterior, window trimmings, and fog light housings. Meanwhile, the interior is sportier and still classier, thanks to the highlights found in the cabin plus the posh, leather furnishings in the interior.