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2016 BMW X1 Detailed Walkaround Video Talks Design, FWD and Space

The all-new BMW X1 is not as technologically advanced as the upcoming 7 Series. But for the millions of people looking for a simple family crossover with the right German badge, it's hugely important.
2016 BMW X1 1 photo
Photo: screenshot from Youtube
That's why we take every opportunity to examine the car. This time, we're showing you a video from Munich, where Auto Express were invited to go behind the scenes and glance over the design in a photo studio.

Under the gazes of German officials, the statements made by their editor are overwhelmingly positive. However, he does confirm some facts everybody was curious to hear. Yes, the second-generation X1 is built around a front-wheel drive platform, the same UKL1 used by the MINI and 2 Series Active Tourer.

Because the engines are all mounted transversally, the windshield could be moved forward. That means that despite this X1 being roughly the same size as the old one, it's got a much bigger cabin. Boot capacity was also increased by 85 liters, reaching a total of 505 liters with the seats up or 1,550 liters when they are folded flat.

At launch, the engines will be 4-cylinder ones. There's little hope for anything bigger, despite the outgoing model offering 6-bangers. However, BMW will have ultra-efficient models powered by 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engines.

Auto Express suggests that within a year, there is going to be an ultra-efficient 1.5-liter diesel model with front-wheel drive. Frankly, that doesn't sound very appealing, but the market demands it.

Looks are always going to be a subjective matter, but we think the new X1 is far more attractive than its rivals, the Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA. It looks like a shrunken version of the X5, which is one of the most "butch" SUVs on the market.

For a more detailed examination of the X1, we recommend you read our in-depth report after viewing this following video.

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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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