The next-generation BMW X1 has finally
started testing on public roads and these spy shots prove it. Spotted by
Carscoops photographers in southern Europe, the third-generation X1 continues
to features heavy camouflage and plastic padding in some areas. As a result,
guessing its final shape is not that easy, though one thing is very clear: the
new BMW X1 will feature bigger kidney grilles.
Chances are they won’t be as controversial
as those BMW has fitted to the new 4 Series family as the grilles don’t reach
as far downward. They are clearly wider than on the current model. The
headlights and taillights are partially covered by camouflage, though it
doesn’t seem like they are the finished items. Thus, guessing their shape is
very difficult at this point. We’ll have plenty of time to see BMW X1
prototypes testing with less camouflage as the model is expected to debut in
late 2022, which means it will debut for the 2023 in North America.
Developed under the U11 codename, the 2023
BMW X1 will use the same FWD-based platform as the next-generation 2 Series
Active Tourer MPV. The compact luxury SUV is expected to offer internal combustion
engines, plug-in hybrid powertrains and, for the first time, a fully electric
variant. The latter is likely to be called the iX1. The test prototype you see
in these images features an internal combustion engine, though, as suggested by
the exhaust visible under the rear bumper.
We still don’t get a look at the interior
but the SUV is said to feature an ultra-minimalist dashboard with a curved
digital instrument panel, simple ergonomics and many environmentally-friendly
materials. This sounds a lot like what we’ve already seen inside prototypes of
the second-generation 2 Series Active Tourer.
