Photo: BMW
BMW’s smallest SUV, the X1, has long been rumored to receive an M version. The second generation of this model appears to be the one to get the special treatment.
We do not have a specific timeline regarding the launch date for the rumored M version of the BMW X1, as this model is under consideration for that kind of development, but this generation is the first of its kind to have a shot at becoming an M car. Unlike the previous model, this X1 is facing competition from Mercedes-Benz and Audi, and both brands have performance variants of their smallest SUV.
In the case of BMW, the upcoming X2 is also on the operating table regarding an M version, especially as it is based on the X1, and it will come with a look that has styling cues from a Coupe. BMW has not confirmed its intention of offering M versions of the X1 and X2 models, but this seems probable if you consider the popularity of the GLA45, and the specifications of the Audi RS Q3.
What was once a niche that only had the Mercedes-AMG GLA45, became a whole battlefield with the introduction of its direct competitor from Audi. BMW is bound to enter the segment as soon as possible, especially since the company has shown it will battle its two rivals in all corners of the global premium market.
The M versions of the X1 and X2 are expected to feature souped-up inline-four cylinder engines, which will be mated to the xDrive system for transverse-mounted applications. It is worth noting that both the GLA45 and the Audi RS Q3 come with automatic transmissions as standard, and all-wheel-drive systems are also incorporated in the basic package.
The smallest SUV from Mercedes-AMG can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.4 seconds, while the Performance version of the RS Q3 matches its time. The standard variant of the Audi RS Q3, which comes with less power on tap, is 0.4 seconds slower to 62 mph than its “Performance” sibling.
If BMW wants a shot at this market segment, the M version of the X1 and X2 models should provide around 350 HP, which is something that is not currently available on any inline-four cylinder engine showcased by the German group.
In the case of BMW, the upcoming X2 is also on the operating table regarding an M version, especially as it is based on the X1, and it will come with a look that has styling cues from a Coupe. BMW has not confirmed its intention of offering M versions of the X1 and X2 models, but this seems probable if you consider the popularity of the GLA45, and the specifications of the Audi RS Q3.
What was once a niche that only had the Mercedes-AMG GLA45, became a whole battlefield with the introduction of its direct competitor from Audi. BMW is bound to enter the segment as soon as possible, especially since the company has shown it will battle its two rivals in all corners of the global premium market.
The M versions of the X1 and X2 are expected to feature souped-up inline-four cylinder engines, which will be mated to the xDrive system for transverse-mounted applications. It is worth noting that both the GLA45 and the Audi RS Q3 come with automatic transmissions as standard, and all-wheel-drive systems are also incorporated in the basic package.
The smallest SUV from Mercedes-AMG can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.4 seconds, while the Performance version of the RS Q3 matches its time. The standard variant of the Audi RS Q3, which comes with less power on tap, is 0.4 seconds slower to 62 mph than its “Performance” sibling.
If BMW wants a shot at this market segment, the M version of the X1 and X2 models should provide around 350 HP, which is something that is not currently available on any inline-four cylinder engine showcased by the German group.
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