X1

Make
BMW
Segment
SUV

The X1 has only been on sale since 2015, so you wouldn't think BMW would be in a rush to refresh it. However, increased competition has forced BMW to give the entry-level crossover an update to maintain sales momentum. As such, we're not expecting any drastic styling changes for the upcoming BMW X1 facelift, and these new spy shots of a pre-production prototype undergoing hot weather testing in Southern Europe seem to support this.

Specifically, this appears to be a prototype of the M Sport version judging from the aggressive-looking air intakes, large alloy wheels, and dual exhaust tips. There have been a few minor styling changes since the last prototype was spied a few months ago such as slimmer headlights and a new front bumper. Otherwise, the BMW X1 facelift will look largely the same as the current model when it rolls out in 2019.

Our spies also managed to get a shot of the interior free of camouflage, but it seems to have been carried over from the current model apart from the larger infotainment screen. Expect the infotainment and sat-nav system to receive an update.

Currently, the only X1 sold in the US is the 28i model, which is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that sends 228 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission, so there's a good chance this setup will carry over. It's also available with front-wheel drive as standard but all-wheel drive is optional. An M Performance version could be on the cards though since we already know BMW is working on a hot M32i version of the X2.