The US market will finally get the smallest version in the X-Series line-up and it's about time considering the Europeans have already been enjoying it for about three years. The 2013 X1->ke2474 will be making its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show and will go on sale in Fall 2012 starting at a starting price of $31,545. For comparison, the X3->ke255 is currently the smallest X model on the US market and it is priced at $37,100.

The new 2013 BMW X1 will be offered in three trim levels: X1 sDrive28i, X1 xDrive28i, and the X1 xDrive35i. The first two levels will be powered by a 240 hp 4-cylinder engine, while the top version will get a 300 HP 6-cylinder inline engine. Both engines will be combined with an automatic gearbox and extensive BMW->ke178 EfficientDynamics technology.

Compared to the previous model, the 2013 X1 has received some minor design upgrades at the front and rear of the vehicle, while the interior has received new colors and trims.

UPDATE 04/03/2012: This review has been updated with the official details and specs for the 2013 BMW X1.

UPDATE 05/03/2012: Today we have added about 100 new high res images to the BMW X1 picture gallery. Enjoy!

Hit the jump to read more about the 2013 BMW X1.

2013 BMW X1

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 BMW X1
  • Engine/Motor: inline-6
  • Horsepower: 300
  • Transmission: automatic gearbox
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

While the Europeans are very familiar with the X1, US customers will immediately recognize the car thanks to its sweeping hood, long wheelbase, and set-back passenger compartment. At the front of the X1 is a BMW kidney grille and newly designed headlights with a chrome-coated accent strip that cuts across the top of the twin circular headlights.

Viewed from the side, the X1 has a main character line that rises steadily to the rear of the vehicle while another line visually extends to the contours of the side window surrounds as it flows towards the rear. The exterior continues with pronounced side skirts, powerful wheel arches, and newly designed exterior mirrors.

At the rear of the X1, BMW has opted to add repositioned reflectors and slimmer black elements.

Interior

The interior of the X1 offers sporty driving pleasure, cutting-edge versatility, and the premium feel this vehicle provides. Compared to the previous model, the 2013 X1 has received a shallower side of the center console, high-quality electroplated trim surrounding for the gearshift lever and center console cup-holders, a chrome strip for the headlight switch, and chrome touches for the side edging of the Control Display. Finally, the air vent surrounds are given a high-gloss black surface.

Engine

At its initial US launch, BMW will offer two different engines. The base models - X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i - will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that delivers a total of 240 HP. The top version - the X1 xDrive35i - will be powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder with an output of 300 HP.

Both versions will be mated to an automatic gearbox and extensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology. The 28i model will get Auto Start-Stop function, while the 35i gets Brake Energy Regeneration.

Prices

The new 2013 BMW X1 will go on sale in Fall 2012. Prices will be as follows: the BMW X1 sDrive28i will be priced at $31,545, the X1 xDrive28i at $33,245, and the X1 xDrive35i at $39,345.

Competition

When the BMW X1 is driving down the street, it doesn't really look like an SUV; it looks more like a raised station wagon. This is the reason many consider models like the Cadillac CTS Wagon->ke1200 its competitor. But entry level models such as the Lexus RX->ke496 and the Infiniti EX35 should also be in fear for their position in the market.

Does the American version of the X1 have all it needs to conquer a market that is already inundated with choices? We will see after sales officially begin. One thing is for sure: in Europe the car is already a hit!