There's a new performance model joining BMW's range in the shape of the X1 M35i. It will be the smallest SUV from the famous M division, but the firm's sporting department hasn't scrimped on the go-faster goodies for the newcomer.
Sportier looks for top-spec model
Starting with the looks, the M35i features a range of updates to help it stand out from the rest of the BMW X1 range. There are 19-inch alloy wheels, with the option of 20-inch rims also offered. The suspension is 15mm lower than the standard X1's, while there's a beefier body kit fitted, too.
This comes with enlarged air intakes in the lower front bumper to boost cooling, while double-vertical bars have been added to the kidney grille. Enlarged skirts have been added along the side, and at the rear there's a rooftop spoiler and a redesigned bumper with a new diffuser design and two pairs of exhaust tips poking out from either side.
Inside, the M35i features the same curved display found in all versions of the X1, which comprises a 10.25-inch driver's display and a slightly larger 10.7-inch touchscreen. There are M-specific functions within the touchscreen, while BMW has added its latest Operating System 9 software. This is designed to offer an improved interface with a simplified control system, with faster responses from the touchscreen and a layout that's easier to navigate than before.
Other interior upgrades include sports front seats in ‘Veganza’ synthetic leather, while optional M Sport seats come with a wider range of adjustment and illuminated M logos for the integrated headrests. There's contrast blue stitching for the upholstery, while plenty of M badges are added, too.
More than just sporty looks
There's a 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol unit under the bonnet making up to 300hp, and drive is sent to all four wheels via a Steptronic seven-speed twin-clutch automatic gearbox. The system is biased towards the front wheels, but the car's electronics and an electro-hydraulic clutch system can send power to the rear if front-wheel slip is detected.
BMW quotes a 0-100km/g time of 5.4 seconds, enabled by a launch control system, while the Boost function is primed when the driver pulls back on the left-hand steering wheel paddle for more than a second.
Suspension upgrades include standard-fit M adaptive dampers, while the M division's engineers are claimed to have tuned the chassis to deliver a more focused drive. Frequency-selective dampers are included as part of the set-up, while the valving in the dampers is designed to smooth out minor bumps more easily. There's also a mechanical limited-slip differential that's designed to boost traction.
One option that's available is "M Compound" brakes. These feature four-piston callipers up front with 385mm drilled discs, while floating rear callipers clamp 330mm solid discs at the back. The combination of iron discs with aluminium componentry is designed to reduce the X1's unsprung weight, further boosting the car's handling.
Irish prices for the new BMW X1 M35i haven't been confirmed, but since it's the top spec in the range, don't expect much change out of €60,000 when it arrives in showrooms in 2024.