BMW shows all-new 2023 X1 compact SAV

When you read through the extensive media release after the jump, the first thing that grabs you is the plethora of standard and optional equipment. In other words, this "little" puppy ain't gonna be cheap (inexpensive). With pretty much all of BMW's grab bag of safety, performance, anf tech equipment available on BMW's little sports activity vehicle (SAV), you know that you won't be missing out on anything by not buying a larger vehicle (automakers used to save the best "stuff" for the bigger models). While it's not listed in the media release, I believe that this new X1 is based on a front-wheel-drive platform (that is shared with the Mini Countryman) but for the US all models will have xDrive all-wheel drive as standard. Interestingly, the xDrive system is mechanical in nature and not an electric device which is sometimes easier to place in a smaller vehicle while maintaining interior room. A 2.0-liter, turbocharged four (241 hp) is the only engine option and comes mated to a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. The equipment list goes on and on so I won't list it here, so click on "read more" below to view all the info. There is also a brief video after the jump as well. I was disappointed when I read the release that no mention was made about rumored upcoming hybrid and EV (iX1) versions of the X1. It has been reported that the next Mini Countryman, that shares this platform and underpinnings, will be EV only. We should be getting more details over the next few months. Until then, enjoy BMW's newest SAV...

Source: Media release, pics, video, and specification chart

BMW iX3 EV receives updates

After just one year on the market, BMW has updated the iX3 EV SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle). There are styling tweaks bringing the iX3 more in line with the new iX and I4 EVs. like a front fascia featuring larger BMW kidney grilles, headlights around ten millimetres slimmer, and a newly sculpted front apron. Also there is new muscular surfacing at the rear, three-dimensional LED rear lights, and model-specific accents in BMW i Blue at the front and rear. The styling tweaks should be enough to get some folks to consider this model for habitation in their respective garages.  The new iX3 features a 210 kW/286 hp motor with 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of peak torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds. Range is about 286 miles depending on your use (or abuse) of the "go" pedal. The updated iX3 is not a speed demon, but more of an EV that is quick with decent range. All iX3s will feature M Sport accoutrement like special aero wheels, blacked out trim, sport seats, and much more. Two trim levels will be offered. The well-equipped “Inspiring” trim level includes metallic paintwork, an adaptive suspension, automatic tailgate operation, a panoramic glass roof, electrically adjustable seats, a sport, leather steering wheel, a storage package and a three-zone automatic climate control system with pre-heating and pre-conditioning function. Add the “Impressive” trim and you add the 20-inch light-alloy wheels, acoustic glazing, Vernasca leather trim, BMW Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and BMW IconicSounds Electric. In other words, spend a bunch or a whole bunch. This not an entry level EV, but it is an attractive alternative to BMW's more futuristic battery-electric vehicles (iX, i4). And because the iX3 is taken from the regular ICE X3, it should be a good size for most folks. The iX3 will start production in China this September (for home market and export use) with the first deliveries to the EU in the fall. No word on whether the iX3 will also be produced at BMW's South Carolina SAV production factory for US consumption. For more info, click on "read more" to view the media release and two videos including one video (the second one) from last year. Something to consider...

Source: BMW - Media release, pics, and videos (2)