The BMW X1 is getting a makeover, and it’ll draw plenty of inspiration from its (much) bigger brothers.
The 2023 X1 has been snapped with what look like production headlights, and a grille inspired by that of the bigger BMW X5.
The grille is linked in the middle, and has prominent vertical strakes. Below it is a broad, horizontal air intake – although BMW has gone to plenty of effort to hide the detailing on the front bumper and side skirts.
It’ll also get a sharp new set of headlights, with angular LED running lights similar to those on the 3 Series sedan.
Down back, the X1 looks a bit taller and more upright than the current model, and has an LED signature nicked from the latest X3 and X4.
Under the skin, the new BMW X1 is expected to offer a choice of petrol, plug-in hybrid, and pure-electric power.
Where the current X1 is based on the same UKL architecture as the Mini, the next model will ride on what BMW calls its FAAR underpinnings.
Along with support for electrified and pure-electric power, the new platform should allow BMW to move the X1 into a new era in interior design.
The current model, despite a recent mid-life refresh, doesn’t have the latest BMW OS infotainment system or digital instruments. It also misses out on systems such as active lane-keeping, which are now becoming common on rivals.
Both the X1 and 5 Series will be sold “in the future” with four drivetrain types: diesel, petrol with 48V mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full battery electric.
Launch dates for both the X1 EV and 5 Series EV have yet to be confirmed, but they could be coming soon rather later as BMW plans to have 25 electrified models on sale globally by 2023, with half being fully electric.
Currently the BMW Group has two pure electric cars available: the i3 and the Mini Electric.
A third EV was unveiled in 2020: the iX3, a fully electric version of the X3 crossover, which will go on sale in Australia later in 2021.
Two further pure-electric cars are due to be available globally by the end of 2021: the i4, based on the upcoming 4 Series Gran Coupe, and the flagship iX crossover.
There will also be a fully electric version of the next-generation 7 Series sedan, possibly branded as the i7.
MORE: Everything BMW X1
