BMW X1 gets a (mild) makeover

While being launched in the USA for the first time, the BMW X1 receives a little nip and tuck.

Words Paul Healy Published 4 April 2012

Such is the popularity of BMW's compact crossover in Europe that 2012 represents the first time the X1 will be offered to American customers, some three years after being launched. The unveiling of the X1 coincides with a mid-life facelift for the compact crossover so the unveiling does have relevance this side of the pond too.

Exterior updates are minimal with a set of new headlights and a slightly revised rear end being the stand out changes. Inside is even more subtle with only true BMW-philes able to spot the extra chrome and gloss black trim.

For the US market BMW will offer a range of petrol TwinPower Turbo engines that range from the 245hp sDrive28i to the 306hp xDrive35i. Both the rear-wheel drive Drive28i and all-wheel drive xDrive35i will be offered exclusively in the US market with diesel engines likely to form the bulk of the line-up in Europe.

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