The next-generation BMW X1 has made another public appearance in Germany and our photographers were there to immortalize it.
Spotted on a car transporter close to BMW’s headquarters in Munich, the prototype is fully wrapped in camouflage and features plastic padding as well to hide its true appearance. That’s understandable because BMW is not expected to launch it until late 2022, which means it will (likely) debut as a 2023 model in North America.
Since the next-generation X1 is in the early stages of development, there isn’t that much information available about it. We do know that it’s being developed under the U11 codename and is expected to offer internal combustion engines, plug-in hybrid powertrains and, for the first time, a fully electric variant. The latter is likely to be called the iX1.
See Also: 2023 All-New BMW X1 Rendered According To Official Spy Shots
The prototype seen in the gallery packs an internal combustion engine, though, as we can see the exhaust under the rear bumper. As with the current-generation X1 F48, the new model will use a FWD-based platform and will be closely related to the upcoming 2 Series Active Tourer, which has also been spotted undergoing testing in recent months.
The all-new X1’s taillights (or what we can see of them) appear similar to the next-gen 2-Series Active Tourer and smaller in size that those of the current X1. Elsewhere, the roof seems more sloped, giving the compact SUV a more dynamic profile. As for the front end, it looks more aggressive thanks to the new headlights and more upright grilles that thankfully are not as big as on the 4 Series.
These photos do not provide us with a good look inside the third-generation BMW X1 but the SUV is said to feature an ultra-minimalist dashboard featuring a curved instrument panel, simple ergonomics and many earth-friendly materials. This sounds a lot like what we’ve already seen inside prototypes of the second-generation 2 Series Active Tourer.
