The X Timeline

MANILA, Philippines - A little over ten years ago, BMW redefined the sport utility vehicle landscape with the launch of its groundbreaking X5 Sports Activity Vehicle. With the X5, BMW demonstrated to the world that pure driving enjoyment can be enjoyed even on a vehicle that was also designed to go off-road. But it was not only in dynamic performance that the X5 excelled. The very first X-series model likewise raised the bar in terms of safety and efficiency in off-road-capable vehicles. And since then, the boys from Bavaria have introduced X-series model after X-series model that continue to elevate the standards in design and performance – enough for them to legitimately be in a class of their own: the class known as the BMW Sports Activity Vehicle.

The BMW X5

Trendsetter and innovator in one. Since its world debut in 1999, the BMW X5 has represented an inseparable blend of new vehicle category, new driving experience, and new appreciation of sportiness. The X5’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system has ensured that its driving dynamics remain in a totally new dimension for this type of vehicle. And as if it wasn’t good enough, the second-generation model launched in 2006 delivered greater interior space and even more advanced chassis and driver-assistance systems such as Adaptive Drive and Active Steering.

The BMW X3

The BMW X3 also created a new class in the premium segment of all-wheel-drive vehicles. Its success speaks for itself, with more than 500,000 buyers snapping up an X3 since its launch in 2004. This model astutely combines the characteristic proportions of a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle with both classical and new BMW design elements. Like in its bigger X5 sibling, the X3 employs the intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system that uses variable power distribution between the axles to ensure unbeatable driving stability and driving dynamics in all road conditions.

The BMW X6

The third member of the X family, the four-seater BMW X6 was launched in the spring of 2008. The world’s first Sports Activity Coupe combines with unsurpassed effectiveness the sporting elegance of a large coupe and the powerful presence of a BMW X-series model. The dynamic potential of the X6 is underpinned by BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive and Dynamic Performance Control, which provides variable distribution of the driving torque between the two rear wheels and raises both the vehicle’s maneuverability and its agility through corners to a whole new level.

The BMW X1

Last but not least is the newest member of BMW’s X-series family. With its spirited and contemporary character, the BMW X1 guarantees a new driving experience in the premium compact segment. It expands and enhances the range of BMW X models by yet another innovative vehicle concept.

Through its body design, the BMW X1 demonstrates self-confident elegance, a versatile and sporting character, as well as natural agility. For the first time the features and characteristics of a BMW X-series model are carried over in modern style into a unique vehicle in the premium compact segment.

The interior of the BMW X1 is characterized by clear function and trendsetting, modern style. The driver orientation so typical of BMW is additionally accentuated by the forward-pushing lines within the cockpit area. Sophisticated materials and natural colors accentuate the youthful and dynamic flair of the vehicle.

The elevated seating position, a generous feeling of space, the wide range of storage options and the variable interior offer ideal conditions for enjoying the BMW X1 both in an urban environment and beyond, with a feeling of nimbleness, spontaneity and functionality of the highest order. Three full-sized seats at the rear offer generous space and freedom of movement. The rear-seat backrest is adjustable for angle and folds down in a 40/20/40 split. Luggage compartment capacity may be more than tripled from 420 liters/14.7 cu ft to a maximum of 1,350 liters/47.3 cu ft. An electrically operated panoramic glass roof is available as an option.

Modern drivetrain technology gives the BMW X1 superior performance and supreme efficiency all in one. Depending on the model variant, the driver benefits from powerful, economical and low-emission gasoline and diesel engines, BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics features. The cutting-edge suspension technology featured in the BMW X1 comprises a double-joint thrust bar or, respectively, an aluminum double-joint tiebar axle at the front and a five-arm rear axle in lightweight steel, high-precision power steering, high-performance brakes, Dynamic Stability Control including Dynamic Traction Control and, as an option, Performance Control acting on the brakes for particularly dynamic driving behavior.

The BMW X1 features a special body structure designed from the outset for maximum occupant safety. Standard features include three-point inertia-reel seat belts all around, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, adaptive Brake Lights and daytime driving lights. Xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and a High-Beam Assistant are all available as an option.

The most sophisticated audio systems are available as an alternative to the system fitted as standard and the AUX-In port likewise featured as standard may be supplemented by a USB interface.

The newest X-series model will be initially available as the BMW X1 xDrive20d. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder all-aluminum diesel engine featuring a turbocharger with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection. It develops 177 hp at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 350 Nm from 1,750 to 3,000 rpm.

Performance figures include a 0–100 km/h time of 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 205 km/h (213 km/h with optional high-speed set-up). The X1’s CO₂ emissions levels are an impressively low 164 g/km, allowing the BMW X1 to pass the ultra-strict EU5 emission standard.