The new BMW X1 M35i xDrive has quietly arrived in South Africa, offering peak power of 223 kW. Here’s how much this fresh-faced M Performance derivative will cost you…
When the BMW X1 M35i xDrive was revealed in June 2023, BMW Group South Africa told us it had no plans to introduce this M Performance derivative “as yet”. As we noted at the time, that statement left the door open for a local introduction at a later point. And that later point is now.
Yes, the M35i xDrive derivative has officially joined the local U11-generation BMW X1 portfolio, slotting in above the X1 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) but below the fully electric iX1 xDrive30.
Priced from R1 188 600, the Regensburg-built X1 M35i xDrive employs the most powerful M Performance 4-cylinder engine yet, a powertrain it shares with both the X2 M35i xDrive (R1 223 936) and the 1 Series M135 xDrive (R982 768).
As a reminder, this latest incarnation of the Munich-based firm’s twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol unit generates 233 kW and 400 Nm, peak outputs that are delivered to all 4 wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard. The German automaker claims a 0-100 kph time of 5.4 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph.
The new all-wheel-drive M Performance model features the brand’s so-called “M Sport Boost” function, which sees all powertrain and chassis systems switched to their sportiest settings when the driver pulls and holds the left-hand shift paddle. Other highlights include an M-specific exhaust system, which BMW promises will deliver an “emotionally rich soundtrack”, channelling exhaust gases via 2 pairs of twin tailpipes (each with a diameter of 80 mm), much like a full-fat M product.
Standard specification includes adaptive M suspension (with a 15 mm ride-height drop), sport steering and 20-inch M light-alloy wheels. The X1 M35i xDrive – which incidentally boasts twin-stalk side mirrors, just like a full-bore M model – also becomes the first M Performance model to be offered with the option of M Compound brakes (for an additional R16 000).
Inside, the BMW Curved Display (which comprises a 10.25-inch information display and a 10.7-inch control display) features plenty of M-specific content. The new BMW X1 M35i furthermore uses an updated version of the BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and the BMW Operating System 9.
There’s also an anthracite-coloured headliner, M door-sill trim, M pedals and sports seats finished in Sensatec/Alcantara (with blue contrast stitching). Locally, the Equipment Package (R24 500) comprises items such as adaptive LED headlamps, high-beam assist, Comfort Access and a wireless smartphone charging tray. The Equipment Package Professional (R43 500), meanwhile, adds features such as BMW Live Cockpit Professional, a head-up display and Parking Assist Plus.
The X1 M35i is furthermore available with a “model-specific” R25 000 M Sport Package Pro, which encompasses M high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, M lights Shadowline, an M Sport braking system (complete with red callipers), M Sport seats and M seat belts.
Individual options include a glass sunroof (R20 500), front-seat heating (R6 000), steering-wheel heating (R3 500), massaging front seats (R10 000), Driving Assist Professional (R26 500) and a luggage-compartment net (R4 000).
How much does the BMW X1 M35i xDrive cost in SA?
BMW X1 sDrive18i xLine – R808 899
BMW X1 sDrive18d xLine – R846 212
BMW X1 sDrive18i M Sport – R848 899
BMW X1 sDrive18d M Sport – R886 212
BMW X1 xDrive30e xLine – R1 050 000
BMW X1 xDrive30e M Sport – R1 090 000
BMW X1 M35i Drive – R1 188 600
BMW iX1 xDrive30 xLine – R1 205 000
BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport – R1 245 000
The prices above include BMW’s 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty (plus 8-year/100 000 km warranty coverage for the fully electric and PHEV versions’ battery packs) and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
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