The BMW X1 sDrive 18i M Sport model launched, is priced at Rs 48.90 lakh (ex-showroom)
The 2023 BMW X1 has recently been launched in India, offering an updated and refined version of the popular compact luxury SUV. This latest model brings a host of new features and improvements, making it an exciting prospect for car buyers in the country.
One of the most notable changes to the 2023 BMW X1 is the exterior design. The car now features a more sleek and modern appearance, with sharper lines and a more aggressive stance. It also boasts a new front grille and redesigned headlights, which give the car a more distinctive look.
- At introduction, the BMW X1 M Sport petrol cost Rs 48.9 lakh.Â
- It costs Rs 3 lakh more than the entry-level xLine petrol model.Â
- It is, however, Rs 2 lakh less expensive than the M Sport diesel version.
- Receives front seats massage functions.
- 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.Â
- For a sportier look, the exterior and interior have undergone modest alterations.Â
- The mechanicals haven’t undergone any modifications.
| Variant | Ex-showroom Price |
| xLine Petrol | Rs 45.9 lakh |
| M Sport Petrol (New) | Rs 48.9 lakh |
| M Sport Diesel | Rs 50.9 lakh |
2023 BMW X1 sDrive 18i interior and exterior feature
Furthermore, because this is an M Sport variant, it has sportier aesthetic elements such as updated bumper designs and M-branded alloy rims. It has an M-branded steering wheel and seats on the inside. These minor design changes give the X1 a considerably more athletic appearance.
The body package is the most conspicuous aesthetic variation between the two BMW X1 sDrive 18i trims. M Sport-specific body package, including M-specific front and hinder fenders, buff black swaths in the order nettings, and M-specific 18- inch alloys, are included with the new specification. The window surrounds and roof rails are likewise bartered out. M Portimao Blue and Storm Bay Grey M Sport trims are also available. The M Sport trim was previously only available on the diesel X1, but it’s now also available on the petrol X1. The diesel is simply available in M Sport trim, but the petrol is available in both xLine and M Sport trims.
The new option includes a M Sport steering wheel with shift paddles and an anthracite star. likewise, the M Sport specification has electronic frontal seat adaptation and hinder seat adaptation up to 130 mm. The M Sport adds a 12- speaker Harmon Kardon- tuned audio system above the xLine trim. A10.25- inch digital instrument cluster, a10.7- inch infotainment touchscreen running the iDrive 8 operating system, wireless Android bus and Apple CarPlay, and wireless charging are all standard on both models.
2023 BMW X1 sDrive 18i engine and transmission
The two sDrive 18i trims have the same engine. It is powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that produces 136hp and 230 Nm of torque and is coupled to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheel drive configuration. The petrol X1 is said to have a 0-100kph time of 9.2 seconds and an ARAI-claimed fuel economy of 16.13kpl. Similarly, diesel X1 model derives 8.9 seconds and 20.37kpl respectively.
2023 BMW X1 Price and Rivals
The M Sport petrol variant lies in the middle of the range and costs Rs 3 lakh more than the base model, but it’s still Rs 2 lakh less expensive than the diesel M Sport trim.
In the entry-level luxury SUV sector, the X1 competes with the Mercedes-Benz GLA (Rs 48.50 lakh-52.70 lakh), the Audi Q3 (Rs 44.89 lakh-50.39 lakh), the Volvo XC40 (Rs 46.40 lakh), and the Mini Countryman (Rs 47.40 lakh)
First Drive Impressions of the BMW X1 sDrive 18i M Sport
The key nestled comfortably in my palm, its heft promising a dose of Bavarian brilliance. Slipping it into the slot, the X1 sDrive 18i M Sport hummed to life, the 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine thrumming with a surprising amount of character. This wasn’t your average grocery-getter; it had a mischievous glint in its LED headlights.
The first impression? Sporty. The M Sport package draped the X1 in a cloak of aggression, from the sculpted bumpers to the M-branded alloys that whispered promises of nimble handling. Slipping into the driver’s seat, the bolsters embraced me like a well-worn sports jacket, and the M steering wheel felt reassuringly solid in my hands.
As I pulled onto the road, the initial surprise continued. The three-cylinder, often derided for its lack of soul, surprised with its sprightly nature. It wasn’t a firecracker, but it delivered its 136 horses with gusto, urging me to explore the twisty backroads that beckoned. The 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox was a smooth operator, snapping through gears with precision, adding to the car’s eager personality.
The twisty bits were where the X1 truly shone. The M Sport suspension firmed things up, but never to the point of harshness. The steering was sharp and communicative, faithfully relaying every whisper of the tarmac. While not a full-blown M car, the X1 danced with surprising agility, reminding me that driving pleasure doesn’t always require earth-shattering horsepower.
The interior, bathed in the glow of the ambient lighting, was a study in modern minimalism. The large infotainment screen, running BMW’s latest iDrive system, was a breeze to navigate, while the digital instrument cluster offered a wealth of information at a glance. The optional Harman Kardon sound system was a revelation, transforming the cabin into a concert hall on wheels.
But practicality hasn’t been sacrificed at the altar of sportiness. The rear seats offered ample legroom and headroom for even the tallest passengers, and the cargo hold swallowed weekend bags with ease. The X1 might be compact, but it punches above its weight in terms of space.
As the miles melted away, the initial surprise morphed into a quiet appreciation. The X1 sDrive 18i M Sport isn’t a muscle car, but it’s a car that begs to be driven. It’s a compact SUV with a mischievous grin, a car that reminds you that driving can still be fun, even in the age of crossovers and SUVs. It might not be the most powerful or the most luxurious, but it offers a unique blend of agility, comfort, and technology, all wrapped in a stylish package. And for that, it deserves a bite of the apple.
The BMW X1 sDrive 18i M Sport is a compact SUV that punches above its weight in terms of driving pleasure and technology. While not the most powerful or luxurious option, it offers a unique blend of fun, practicality, and style that makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium driving experience in a smaller package.
2023 BMW X1 sDrive 18i M Sport Verdict
Overall, the 2023 BMW X1 is a highly desirable luxury SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, and comfort. With its impressive array of features and updates, it is sure to appeal to car buyers in India who are looking for a premium compact SUV that delivers on all fronts.
