BMW has just added yet another model to its BMW X1 family, but it’s no ordinary X1 this time around. Introducing the BMW X1 M35i xDrive, the first M-labelled and flagship model of the BMW X1 series.
In order to wear the M badge, it’s got to at least look the part. To that end, the BMW X1 M35i xDrive has been given an M-specific exterior makeover, including a front apron with large intakes to help cool its engine, transmission, and brakes, even when under hard driving.
The SAV is also decorated with side skirt extensions, a roof spoiler, and a rear apron with diffuser inlay. Just so you know that it’s a proper ‘M’ model, the X1 M35i also gets a pair of black M side-view mirrors with the signature twin stalk design.
Rounding off the exterior redesign are a set of 19-inch M double-spoke bi-colour wheels. The BMW X1 M35i is also the first M performance model to be fitted with two pairs of twin tailpipes.
RELATED: The next-gen BMW M5 will get a Touring variant, and we love it already
Powering the BMW X1 M35i xDrive is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder M TwinPower Turbo engine. Claimed to be the most powerful four-cylinder engine in BMW’s modular engine portfolio, it produces either 300 hp or 317 hp (depending on the market), and 400 Nm of torque.
If you need more performance though, the BMW X1 M35i xDrive is also equipped with the M Sport Boost function which can provide rapid bursts when needed. The mode can be activated just by pulling and holding the left-hand shift paddle for at least one second.
The engine is paired with a seven-speed Steptronic transmission. With power sent to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD) system, sprinting from 0-100 km/h takes 5.4 seconds, and the SAV’s top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
To provide greater agility and handling dynamics when taking corners, even when on loose terrains or in adverse weather conditions, the new performance SUV is also fitted with a mechanical limited-slip differential (LSD) on the front axle.
A set of Adaptive M suspensions ensures that the BMW X1 M35i handles as well as it looks, while stopping power is provided by a brake-by-wire integrated brake system, which are upgradeable to the M Compound brakes with four-piston calipers up front.
ALSO WATCH: 2023 BMW iX1 xDrive30 in Malaysia – 313 hp, 494 Nm, RM285k
Inside the BMW X1 M35i xDrive, you will find an Alcantara-trimmed instrument panel, M door sill trim, M pedals, as well as M-specific graphics on the BMW Curved Display. The interior also features the brand’s Sports steering, Aluminium Hexacube Dark interior trim elements, and an anthracite-coloured headliner as standard. Customers can also opt for the BMW Head-Up Display and M leather steering wheel with shift paddles as an option.
Other standard interior equipment also include the dual-zone automatic climate control, a Harman Kardon premium sound system, and the BMW Curved Display panels atop the dashboard. On the latter, The X1 M35i is the first BMW model to come equipped with with the new BWM iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9.0.
For some additional flair, the sports seats are wrapped in black Sensatec and Alcantara, matched with blue contrast stitching. Optionally, the leather-like Veganca upholstery and M Sport seats with illuminated M logos are also available.
The BMW X M35i xDrive is planned to be launched in the US in October 2023 with a starting price tag of USD49,900 (approx. RM233k). Deliveries in Europe, on the other hand, will commence in November 2023.
RELATED: BMW X1 xDrive30e PHEV launched in Thailand, coming to Malaysia soon?
GALLERY
