The all-new BMW X1 M35i xDrive

Featured in:
October 2023

Most powerful four-cylinder unit from the latest generation of engines, M-specific chassis technology and BMW xDrive deliver sublime performance.

A performance model with unmistakable M character is taking its place at the top of the new BMW X1 range. The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive builds on the spontaneous driving pleasure that lies at the heart of the compact Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept with an injection of the dynamism, agility and precision for which M models are renowned. Its four-cylinder unit is part of the new modular generation of BMW Group Efficient Dynamics engines and uses M TwinPower Turbo technology to record maximum output of 221 kW/300 hp in Europe and an even higher figure of 233 kW/317 hp in the USA and other selected markets.

The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive races to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 5.4 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). M-specific chassis technology – including the option of M Compound brakes for the first time on a performance model – teams up with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive to deliver sublime performance characteristics. The sharper character of the new BMW X1 M35i xDrive is clearly apparent both inside and out. The new range-topping model comes with the type of exclusive design and equipment features originally reserved for high-performance cars from BMW M GmbH. These include the two pairs of exhaust tailpipes and the optional M Sport seats with illuminated M logo.

The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive also blazes a trail when it comes to digital technology: it is among the first models to feature the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9. The market launch of the new BMW X1 M35i xDrive will get underway in October 2023 in the USA. Deliveries in Europe will commence in November 2023. The flagship model will be built at BMW Group Plant Regensburg, together with all other variants of the new BMW X1, including the all-electric BMW iX1.

New four-cylinder engine with extra power
The most potent incarnation of the four-cylinder petrol unit from the latest modular generation of engines delivers the raw power that the new BMW X1 M35i xDrive turns into captivating performance. Various innovations set these new engines apart from the preceding generation. They include the adoption of the Miller cycle, redesigned intake ports and combustion chambers, and changes to the camshaft timing, injection, ignition system and exhaust gas routing.

Among the 2.0-litre unit’s M-specific highlights are a new, extremely robust crankshaft drive, an optimised system of oil supply for the pistons with cooling channels, and main bearing shells and caps carried over from the latest-generation six-cylinder in-line petrol engine. Its M TwinPower Turbo technology has been upgraded by increasing the performance of the turbocharging system and indirect charge air cooling at the same time as introducing dual injection for mixture preparation as a function of load point. It is also equipped with VANOS variable camshaft timing with optimised oil supply for the actuator and Valvetronic fully variable valve timing. The engine generates its maximum output between 5,750 and 6,500 rpm, while peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) is on tap from 2,000 up to 4,500 rpm.

The new four-cylinder unit’s spirited power delivery is accompanied by an emotionally rich soundtrack from the M-specific exhaust system. The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive is the first performance model from BMW M GmbH whose exhaust gases are channelled via two pairs of twin tailpipes. Nestled neatly into the left and right of the rear apron, they are a signature feature of high-performance models from BMW M and have now been adopted by the most powerful member of the compact SAV range.

19-inch M light-alloy wheels as standard
M light-alloy wheels in twin-spoke design measuring 19 inches in diameter round off the bespoke chassis specification of the new BMW X1 M35i xDrive. The standard light-alloy wheels are fitted with tyres that are 20 millimetres wider than on the outgoing model to give the range-topper even greater dynamic handling potential. 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive twin-spoke design and sport tyres can both be found on the options list.



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