BMW discreetly expanded its internal combustion engine X1 family in South Africa this week with the new M35i xDrive.
The M35i assumes the role of the flagship model in the portfolio – not counting the battery-electric iX1 – with an asking price of R1,188,600.
M35i specs
The main attraction of the X1 M35i is its powerful underpinnings that effectively render it a “hot” crossover.
It boasts a 2.0-litre, turbocharged petrol mill under the hood with a commendable 233kW and 400Nm at its disposal, which is transmitted to all four corners via a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission.
As a result, this X1 can clear the 100km/h landmark in as little as 5.4 seconds on its way to a maximum of 250km/h. This is 0.2 seconds and 45km/h faster than its closest sibling, the plug-in hybrid xDrive30e.
Additionally, the M35i is equipped with adaptive M suspension as standard lending it sharper handling characteristics than its stablemates, as well as dark blue M Sport brakes with improved stopping power.
It also brings an M Sport exhaust system with four circular exhaust outlets for a sportier sound.
Average fuel usage for the range-topper is listed at 7.8l/100km.
In the cosmetics department, the X1 M35i comes with the athletic M Sport body kit as standard complemented by the M High-gloss Shadowline exterior package that sees numerous exterior elements finished in black.
Furthermore, it boasts adaptive LED headlights and daytime running lights, the M rear spoiler, and distinctive 20-inch light-alloy wheels.
The colour palette contains nine hues comprising one uniform and eight metallic paints. For an added layer of flair, buyers can also opt for their own unique finish courtesy of the BMW Individual programme.
Moving inside, the halo model features M Sport seats wrapped in M Alcantara/Veganza leather with blue contrast stitching, alongside Aluminium Hexacube Pale M trim finishes.
Standard nice-to-haves further encompass paddle shifters, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display with M-specific functions, a 10.7-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, BMW Maps navigation, voice control, dual-zone climate control, and a Sport leather steering wheel.
This is on top of safety and assistance systems such as cruise control with front-collision warnings, lane-change warning, steering and lane control assist, automatic speed limit assist, the Parking Assistant package with a reverse camera and parking sensors, hill-start assist, ABS with brake assist, and six airbags.
Each purchase of the X1 M35i xDrive is completed with a 2-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and 5-year/100,000km maintenance plan.
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