Quad tips signify a full-fat M vehicle, but it’s not an X1 M.
Markus Flasch , the former BMW M boss, ruled out the possibility that an M car could be launched based on a front wheel-drive platform. As the Bavarians have M Performance versions (M135i, M35i, and M235i xDrive) of their 1 Series hatchbacks (M135i and M235i), as well as the X2 crossover (M35i and M235i xDrive), Flasch was referring to an M model. This makes sense. But why does the prototype of the next-gen model X1 have quad exhausts?
Our friends at BMWBLOG The magazine, which is known for being accurate when it comes to information about future BMW products, is positive that the company’s smallest crossover won’t be receiving the full-fat M treatment. The magazine cites “a very reliable source” as a reason for its certainty. “There is no X1 M in the works.” A new version of the article claims that it can solve the mystery. It’s an M135i edition.It seems that BMW is attempting to diminish the legacy of the four exhausts by installing them on a non M car. This would be based on a front wheel-drive platform. This seems odd when you consider that the XDrive was updated earlier in the week. However, it didn’t get an additional pair of tips. This setup may be used in the facelifted hot hatch to match its crossover sibling.
The X1 is still available with optional M Performance Parts. However, it’s not available in M35i specification. BMW plans to address this issue in the next generation of the crossover, which will feature the same turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline motor that produces 302 horsepower (225kilowatts) as well as 450 Newton-meters (332 pounds-feet) to both axles.
BMW’s smallest crossover is due for a refresh:
2022 BMW X1 Spied Inside And Out Showing More Details
2022 BMW X1 Rendered And Spied Showing More Details
The next-generation model with conventionally engined power is expected to be on sale in 2022’s second half. However, BMW has already stated that a fully electric iX1 will be available later, possibly as soon as 2023.