BMW X1 s-Drive20i explained in detail

Petrol cars are back in vogue and now that Mercedes has made sure that each of its cars gets a gasoline mill, it is BMW’s turn to follow suit. After the introduction of the BMW 330i replacing the 320i, BMW’s most affordable SUV, the X1, also gets a petrol mill and is available in only one trim. Here is a rundown on the BMW X1 petrol that tells you everything you need to know about the car.

First up, the petrol engine. It is the same 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine from the 320i developing 188bhp of power and 270Nm torque that comes mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox that drives the rear wheels only. Yes, it doesn’t get four-wheel drive since most of these crossover SUVs are largely traffic-stricken pavement dwellers. But it does get dynamic stability control, traction control and other driving aids that make sure it has the BMW flair in its road behaviour.

On the inside, the new X1 is much bigger than its predecessor, offering more space to its five occupants. The body lines are also more SUV than before with the kidney grilles stacked high up on the fascia underlined by the sculpted bumper. It gets power seats in the front, power mirrors and all four power windows with auto-up and down functions. It gets a separate zone climate control system and leather upholstery for the premium feel. The infotainment system gets a display screen and the BMW iDrive features with steering mounted audio controls.

The BMW X1 petrol competes with the Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 petrol and the Audi Q3 30TFSI as direct rivals. In this segment, you also have the option of going for the Mini Countryman diesel and the Volvo V40 Cross Country diesel, since they are offered at a similar price point.

At a price range of about Rs 35 lakh, you also have the option of going for the big fat SUVs like the fully loaded 3.2-litre Ford Endeavour or the top-spec Toyota Fortuner. Of course, along with these SUVs, you could also consider the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and the newbie – the Isuzu MU-X and also save some cash in the process. You also have the option to opt for the D-segment saloons like the Skoda Superb and the Toyota Camry which offer much more legroom and value for money with their equipment. 

Amongst the premium brands, you have the Mercedes CLA, the Audi A3 and the Volvo S60 to choose from. Finally, if you can stretch your budget a bit, you can always choose between the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3 Series, the Audi A4 and the Jaguar XE premium sedans.