BMX X1 invades US priced at $31,545

At the New York auto show last month, we learned that the BMW X1 compact SUV would be coming to the United States. Now we know that it will arrive on our shores in fall 2012, with a base price of $31,545 including $895 destination. According to BMW, the X1 has been a tremendous success, with more than 275,000 copies sold worldwide. BMW also is planning to build the car for China in a newly opened plant in the Shenyang Province. When the X1 arrives in the States it will have host of updates, including technologies from BMW's EfficientDynamics suite. Brake-energy regeneration will be standard on the xDrive28i, as will auto stop/start and the “Eco Pro” mode to reduce fuel consumption. Check out the full press release below for complete details. Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 2, 2012… Having demonstrated that it is the perfect blend of sports sedan-like driving dynamics and SUV utility in markets around the world, the BMW X1 is setting out to conquer the US. The talented Sport Activity Vehicle of the premium sub-compact segment will make its US market debut armed with state-of-the-art powertrain technology, innovative features, selective design modifications and extensive interior refinements. The new 2013 BMW X1 will arrive in authorized BMW Centers in the fall of 2012 starting at an MSRP of $31,545 (including $895 Destination and Handling). The X1 has proven to be highly successful, with sales having already exceeded 275,000. As has been the case with other models before it, the BMW X1 finds itself in a competitive market segment that it virtually spawned. Unlike other BMW SAVs, X1s destined for the US will be built in BMW's Leipzig, Germany plant. The popularity of the X1 around the globe has proven so great that X1s for the Chinese market will now be built in a newly opened plant at Tiexi in Shenyang Province. The arrival of the BMW X1 to the US coincides with an update that includes exterior and interior refinements as well as a host of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies. All models feature Brake Energy Regeneration while the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i models also benefit from Auto Start/Stop and ECO PRO mode to further reduce fuel consumption. Another element of the update is the availability of BMW Lines for the first time in an SAV, as an alternative to the base trim level. Both the BMW xLine and BMW Sport Line offer exclusive design and equipment features. The xLine emphasizes the robust versatility of the new BMW X1 while the Sport Line accentuates its performance and handling. For enthusiasts who want to accentuate the sporting character of their X1 even further, an M Sport Package is also available. Design: New touches highlight its elegance, versatility and sportiness. Typical BMW proportions, vibrant surfaces and signature BMW X model design cues shape the appearance of the X1. A sweeping hood, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment emphasize its dynamic talent, while attractive light and shade effects hint at its inherent agility. The versatility and ruggedness of a BMW X model are reflected in elements such as the black bordering at the lower edge of the body and the muscular wheel arches. Above all, the new BMW X1 conveys even more strikingly the powerful stance that distinguishes BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles. In the case of the X1, the look reflects the unique combination of the elevated seating position and flexible utility of an SAV with the driving dynamics of a BMW sports sedan. In addition to the inserts in the front and rear fascia and the special side skirt covers, the circular foglamps positioned under the headlights add to the hallmark features of a BMW X model. Beyond this, the new BMW X1 boasts attractive touches of sporting luxury. Front view: Even more details in the style of a BMW X model. When viewed from the front, the powerful stance of the new BMW X1 on the road is immediately evident. The path of the car's lines, which converge along the sides of the BMW kidney grille, follows the V-shaped contours of the hood, forging downwards and outwards in the lower section of the bumper to create the sweeping “X” familiar from the X1's larger siblings. The striking lines go hand in hand with a detailed execution of the body's surface styling, signaling a sporty character. The foglamps are now level with an extra crease line that forms a discreet scoop along the upper edge of the lights and continues into the fenders. Newly designed headlights afford a detailed view of the car's advanced light technology. In the upper area, a chrome accent strip now cuts across the top of the twin round headlights, while an LED accent light – included as part of the optional xenon light package – ensures the classic BMW focused look. The available xenon headlights also feature LED light rings for the daytime running lights. Side view: Characteristic proportions, new exterior mirrors. The character line that rises steadily to the rear of the car, an additional line extending the contours of the side glass graphic as it runs rearwards, and powerfully flared wheel arches allow the BMW X1 to project a very distinctive profile. The pronounced side skirts are a signature feature of BMW X models, while the directional indicators are now integrated into the exterior mirrors. Rear view: Focused emphasis on a wide and powerful stance. The premium feel of the new BMW X1 is also underlined at the rear by the new subdivision of fascia, bumper and undertray. Repositioned reflectors are now bordered by surfaces painted in body color. As a result, the black plastic elements are slimmer, while the silver-colored undertray has a more striking surface structure. Furthermore, the contours of the LED taillights now flow harmoniously into the line of the tailgate handle. A stronger emphasis on the horizontal lines gives the X1 both a robust and sporty appearance. Interior: Precise lines, high-quality materials, sophisticated color scheme. The modifications to the design of the new BMW X1 interior create an even more vivid showcase of the sporty driving pleasure and cutting-edge versatility. The side of the center console, angled towards the driver, is now shallower and boasts a particularly high-grade surface quality. This highlights the driver-focused principle of the cockpit design. The panel for the sound and climate system controls now has a high-gloss black surface to match the air vent surround. The new BMW X1 comes with a storage compartment in the center of the instrument panel. In vehicles with the optional navigation system, this houses the central Control Display for the iDrive operating system. Chrome accents on the side surrounds of the onboard monitor highlight this feature. High-quality electroplated surrounds for the gearshift lever and the center console cup holder as well as a chrome clip on the headlight switch add the finishing touches to the interior's exclusive ambience. BMW TwinPower Turbo technology: Available in four or six-cylinder form. The BMW X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i feature BMW's newest 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine (N20). This dynamic and efficient engine delivers maximum power of 240 hp at 5,000 rpm while the maximum torque of 260 lb-ft is developed at just 1,250 rpm and remains constant up to 4,800 rpm. It is mated to BMW's latest 8-speed Steptronic automatic. This combination powers the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i from 0-60 mph in 6.2 and 6.3 seconds respectively. This level of responsiveness is matched with impressive efficiency. Preliminary EPA mileage estimates are 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway/27 mpg combined for the X1 sDrive28i while the AWD X1 xDrive28i has preliminary EPA estimates of 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway/25 mpg combined. This engine is the most powerful in a new generation of 4-cylinder engines designed in accordance with the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, which aims to combine increased driving enjoyment with reduced fuel consumption and emissions. In technical terms, this 4-cylinder engine is modeled on the current multi-award-winning inline 6-cylinder with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (N55), which is the benchmark in its class for dynamic power delivery and impressive efficiency. This world-exclusive technology combines High Precision Direct Injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing with twin-scroll turbocharging. VALVETRONIC, Double-Vanos and High Precision Direct Injection. The combination of a high power output and a simultaneous reduction in emissions is achieved by VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing. The latest generation of the VALVETRONIC system features a faster-acting, optimized stepper motor with integrated sensor. Seamlessly variable control of intake valve lift dispenses with the need for a throttle butterfly. Instead, the air mass is controlled inside the engine, resulting in faster response. At the same time, pumping losses have been reduced to a minimum. The excellent efficiency is also down to the High Precision Direct Injection system. Centrally positioned between the valves, solenoid injectors precisely control the supply of fuel. The fuel is injected very close to the spark plug, with a maximum injection pressure of 200 bar (2900 psi), resulting in clean and homogeneous combustion. The cooling effect of the directly injected fuel also results in a higher compression ratio than on port injection engines, bringing further efficiency improvements. X1 xDrive35i: Exclusive to the North American market – the most dynamic X1 of all Enthusiasts in North America will have access to the most dynamic model in the X1 line, the X1 xDrive35i featuring, BMW's award-winning 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine (N55). The N55 has been setting standards from the start, as the pioneer of a new generation of engines in which BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing plus a twin scroll turbo made its debut. It will be mated to a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. With a maximum power rating of 300 hp at 5,800 rpm, the 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder reflects the sporty personality of this X1 variant and helps it deliver unparalleled performance. And the high peak torque of 300 lb-ft, on stream between 1,200 and 5,000 rpm, ensures that the power is effortlessly and instantly delivered. In order maximize available traction so as to take full advantage of its performance potential, the X1 xDrive35i, as the name implies, will be offered exclusively with xDrive all-wheel drive. As a result, the new BMW xDrive35i can show off its prowess with a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of just 5.3 seconds. EPA mileage estimates for this model are 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway/21 mpg combined. Wide-ranging BMW EfficientDynamics technology, ECO PRO mode marks its debut in the BMW X1. In line with the enhanced engines and transmissions, the new BMW X1 includes a range of technologies that boast optimized efficiency. All model variants come equipped with Brake Energy Regeneration. An ECO PRO mode and the Auto Start-Stop function are available in the new BMW X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i models. ECO PRO provides efficiency-optimized driving with targeted adjustments to the accelerator mapping and the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission. Moreover, the output of electrically operated functions such as the seat heating, climate control system and exterior mirror heating are regulated to ensure highly efficient energy management. A special display informs the driver of the extra range gleaned through these measures. BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system: Intelligent, fast and precise for enhanced driving pleasure. Available with both powertrains, the new BMW X1 can transfer power to the road with the help of BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch allows the system to vary power between the front and rear wheels, thereby guaranteeing maximum traction, the highest possible safety, outstanding handling and optimal power development regardless of weather or road conditions. By virtue of being integrated with Dynamic Stability Control, the xDrive control system is able to analyze every driving situation with great precision. It can thus counteract any tendency towards oversteer or understeer by distributing power as required before the driver is even aware of the need. What's more, the collaboration between xDrive and DSC enables Hill Descent Control for safe passage down an incline at an automatically regulated speed. As a means of sharpening the handling character, the X1 xDrive28i and xDrive35i get Performance Control as part of the available M Sport Package. Performance Control helps the X1 xDrive35i maintain a more neutral handling character by adjusting the xDrive torque split to 20% front/80% rear in steady state cornering. Performance Control can also apply the inside rear brake while also applying a little more power to the outside wheel (to compensate for the additional drag of the brake) in order to help rotate the vehicle. New for the BMW X1: The BMW xLine and BMW Sport Line. BMW Lines are available for all models, allowing drivers to tailor their new BMW X1 with individual style based on their personal preferences. The BMW xLine allows the sturdy versatility of the sub-compact BMW X model to be emphasized. It includes undertray elements for the front and rear fascias, side skirt covers, air intake and kidney grille slats in Titanium Silver matt finish, as well as exclusive 18-inch alloys in Y-spoke design. The distinctive charisma of the new BMW X1 is also reflected in the interior, starting with entry strips bearing the lettering “BMW xLine”, a leather-wrapped multifunction sports steering wheel, as well as exclusive interior trim strips in Dark Copper high-gloss and floor mats with color-matched piping. In conjunction with the BMW xLine, optional Nevada leather upholstery is available, with the exclusive color shades Terra and Oyster which are also used on the door trim panels and the lower section of the dashboard. The head rests feature a distinctive embossed “X”. As an additional option, interior trim in Fineline Bay matt fine wood finish is available exclusively in combination with the BMW xLine. The stand-out agility and dynamics of the new BMW X1 within the competitive environment can also be highlighted through exclusive and meticulously matched design and equipment features. Cue the BMW Sport Line, which features a front and rear undertray, side skirt covers, air intakes and kidney grille slats in Black high-gloss, tailpipe finishers in Black Chrome, exclusive 18-inch double-spoke light alloys, and entry strips with “BMW Sport” lettering. In the interior, sport seats with coral red accents, a sports leather steering wheel and gear selector lever with red stitching, interior trim in Black high-gloss finish and floor mats with red piping all contribute to an ambience that is explicitly geared to intensive driving pleasure. The leather sports seats are available in a choice of two colors, while interior trim strips in aluminum with accent line are an optional exclusive to the BMW Sport Line. Both BMW Lines are offered as an alternative to the entry-level version. An M Sport package is also available as an option for the new BMW X1. Solid body structure, comprehensive safety equipment. Like all BMW X models, the new BMW X1 boasts a body with high torsional stiffness which, thanks to intelligent lightweight design, pairs extreme robustness with optimized weight. In the interests of passive safety, the impact forces in the event of an accident are diverted along several load paths, absorbed by precisely defined deformation zones and thus kept away from the stable passenger cell. As well as front and side airbags for the front seats, standard interior equipment includes side curtain head airbags for both rows of seats, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch limiters and belt latch tensioners in the front and ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear. All restraint systems are controlled by a central electronic system. Immediately after its market launch, the BMW X1 was awarded the maximum 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test. Interior allows diverse uses with modern functionality. The new BMW X1 also showcases its versatility when it comes to carrying stuff. The rear seatback can be split 40:20:40, with the three sections folding down individually or jointly according to need and can be adjusted in ten stages. The angle of tilt for the rear-seat backrest ranges from 31° – a particularly comfortable angle for passengers – all the way to a near-vertical cargo position of 1°. This facility alone means the luggage space can vary between 12.7 cubic feet (360 liters) and 17.0 cu.ft (480 liters), with a capacity of 14.8 cu. ft. (420 liters), according to European measure, when the rear seatback is in its normal position. Folding all three seat elements down fully creates a virtually flat cargo floor with a loading capacity of 47.7 cu. ft. (1,350 liters), again according to European measure. SAE volume measures are not yet available but, either way, these numbers indicate a surprising amount of cargo space for a vehicle of this size. Two 46-inch golf bags can be stowed widthways or, after folding down the central section of the seatback, lengthwise. The through-loading aperture between the outer rear seats can also be used for two snowboards or four pairs of skis. The passenger compartment offers a wide range of storage spaces and compartments of various sizes, as well as generously sized door pockets. Additional transportation potential is opened up by roof rails and a storage compartment package. Premium character thanks to comprehensive standard equipment and high-grade options. The range of standard equipment on the new BMW X1 guarantees driving enjoyment and comfort at a premium level. The scope includes automatic climate control, electrically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, foglamps, LED taillights, chrome tailpipe finishers, a multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel, an onboard computer, and a hi-fi sound system with CD player, AUX-IN connection, HD radio and a two-line display showing computer data, telephone numbers and music track titles. Other standard features include roof rails, Rain Sensing windshield wipers and automatic headlights. Many features are standard equipment of the X1 xDrive35i which are also available on the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i. These include the panoramic glass sunroof, electrically adjusted front seats, Servotronic steering, Adaptive Xenon Headlights and automatic high beams. The range of optional extras for all models includes, among other features, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and Sirius/XM satellite radio with a one-year subscription, as well Chrome-line exterior trim. BMW ConnectedDrive, meanwhile, offers a wide choice of options for optimizing the convenience, safety and infotainment functions of the car. Accurate and safe maneuvering is facilitated by the Driver Assistance Package which includes Park Distance Control and the rear-view camera, which relays its images live to the Control Display of the iDrive operating system. BMW Assist, a globally unique mobility service, comprises among other features a telephone information service and the enhanced Automatic Collision Notification function with automatic detection of the vehicle location. BMW Assist with Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity is part of the Technology Package which also includes the on-board navigation system. Other innovative technologies allow the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones as well as music players, including the use of Internet-based services. The Apps option enables iPhone users, among other things, to receive Internet radio stations and to display Facebook and Twitter posts on the onboard monitor. With BMW Apps, iPhone users can access and listen to music streaming services like Pandora and MOG. Other available packages include the Cold Weather Package, Lighting Package and Premium Package. The Driver Assistance Package, Premium Package and Technology Package may be order together as the Ultimate Package. The M Sport Package is available for all models. It consists of a Sport Suspension and 18-inch M Double-spoke wheels with mixed-sized performance tires with an available upgrade to 19-inch wheels. Interior touches include Sport Seats, an M Sport Steering Wheel, Dark Aluminum or Light Fineline Wood trim and an anthracite headliner. Exterior touches include M Aero kit, Shadowline trim, and high-gloss roof rails. The all-wheel drive X1 xDrive28i and xDrive35i models also get Performance Control as part of the package. The BMW X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i will retail for $31,545 and $33,245 respectively while the X1 xDrive35i will start at $39,345. All prices include $895Destination and Handling. Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20120503/CARNEWS/120509952#ixzz1tpm1XLx1