BMW is one of the cars that has been chosen by consumers in the upper middle class. In the past, BMW was more famous for its sedans. However, now many are choosing sport utility vehicles (SUV). There are several SUVs from BMW marketed in Indonesia, but one of the best-selling is the BMW X1.
History of the BMW X1
BMW designed the X1 with the concept of an athletic car with compact dimensions. However, this design still maintains the appearance design elements of the Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV) which is the hallmark of the BMW X series family. Globally, the BMW X1 contributes up to a quarter of BMW car sales.
Since the birth of the first generation, the BMW X1 has recorded sales of more than 1,700,000 units worldwide. Meanwhile in Indonesia, the BMW X1 is claimed to be able to contribute up to 6 percent of the total sales of 2,500 BMW Indonesia units during 2019. In the first half of 2020, this car recorded the highest number of sales, namely 142 units.
Seeing its high contribution and great interest from the public, BMW Indonesia finally assembled the X1 locally at the Gaya Motor factory, Sunter, North Jakarta. This step is also a clear proof of BMW's commitment in the national market.
First Generation BMW X1
The BMW X1 itself was first introduced in concept form in 2008 at the Paris Motor Show. A year after that, the BMW X1 officially launched with the E84 code. BMW produces it at the BMW Leipzig factory, followed by Chennai (India), Shenyang (China) and Kaliningrad (Russia).
BMW relies on the same platform used in the BMW 3 Series (E91) Touring. So, the wheelbase is the same, which is 2,760 mm. The engine is placed lengthwise, because this car is equipped with a rear-wheel drive system. BMW offers two engine options, namely 1,500 cc and 2,000 cc.
Then, only in 2011, BMW finally provided a diesel engine with the same engine capacity and wheel drive system. In 2013, the BMW X1 received a refresher, this car was embedded with BMW EfficientDynamics, with changes to the design of the lights, bumpers and interior.
In addition, three types were also introduced, namely xLine, Sport and M Sport. The first generation of the BMW X1 has sold 820,529 units. The first generation was marketed until mid-2015.
Second Generation BMW X1
The second generation of the BMW X1 launched in mid-2015, continuing the contribution of the previous generation. This SAV was first presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show and the Tokyo Motor Show.
Meanwhile for Indonesia, the second generation of the BMW X1 was brought in in 2016. This time, there were only two types being marketed, namely the BMW X1 sDrive18i and the BMW X1 sDrive18i xLine.
The difference between the BMW X1 sDrive18i and the BMW X1 sDrive18i xLine
The BMW X1 has been assembled in Indonesia and comes with the BMW X1 sDrive18i and BMW X1 sDrive18i xLine variants. The difference between the two compact SUVs can be seen on the exterior, interior, and advanced features embedded.
However, the most striking difference between the two cars can be seen in the BMW X1 sDrive18i xLine, equipped with a panoramic sunroof and 568 style Double Spoke alloy wheels coated in silver chrome.
Another difference can be seen in the front grille which is coated in silver to indicate the xLine type. In the standard type, the wheels used are also 18 inches in size, but use the Y-spoke Style 556 model.
Entering the cabin, both types use seats covered with Dakota leather. In the standard model, the interior is finished with Fine-wood paneling and Oak Grain Matt highlights. While the xLine type is decorated with Piano Black accents and Coral Red highlights.
Meanwhile, in terms of features, the xLine type is superior to the Panoramic Glass Roof. While advanced features such as Engine Start Stop, iDrive with BMW Navigation System on a 5.6-inch touch screen head unit, 7 speakers, and memory-equipped electric seats are standard on both types.
