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Published 27 June 2023
By Shane O' Donoghue

BMW’s smallest SUV gets the M treatment — creating the 296bhp X1 M35i

Comes with vegan leather as standard

Published 27 June 2023
By Shane O' Donoghue

There’s a new model joining the BMW M car line-up in the shape of the X1 M35i xDrive.

It’s claimed to be the most driver-focused X1 variant of the compact SUV over its three generations, and BMW promises that it comes with the kind of dynamism, agility and precision for which its M-badged models are famous.

Power comes from a 2-litre twin-turbocharged petrol engine tuned to produce 296bhp, and it’s been fully reworked by BMW’s M division with heavy-duty components sourced from BMW’s latest high-performance straight-six in the M3 and a sports exhaust system featuring quad-outlet exhaust pipes.

Drive is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic gearbox, while an M Sport Boost function is offered that maximises acceleration when the left-hand shift paddle is held for more than one second by the driver.

The X1 M35i is capable of 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

As well as being fast in a straight line, the M division has given the X1 M35i a range of transmission and suspension updates that means it should deliver sharp handling, too.

The four-wheel-drive system can send power to the rear wheels in milliseconds to boost traction, while a mechanical limited-slip differential improves the car’s agility, as well as offering greater grip in slippery conditions.

Adaptive M dampers are tuned to deliver agility and comfort depending on the chosen driving mode, while the M35i has a 15mm lower ride height than other models in the X1 range.

New “M Compound” brakes are available as an option, and feature 385mm drilled discs up front and 330mm discs at the rear.

Design changes

Along with the mechanical upgrades, BMW has given the X1 M35i a visual makeover. There are 19in alloy wheels fitted as standard — 20in items are available as an option — large air intakes set into the front bumper, extended side skirts, a bigger rear spoiler and a new diffuser design that all helps the M35i to stand out.

Also added to the nose are vertical bars within the large black kidney grille.

BMW X1 M35i xDrive

Step inside, and you’ll find plenty of M badging to remind you that you’re in the highest-spec X1 in the range.

The seats are trimmed in “Veganza” synthetic leather as standard, while soft leather and other colours are available as an option.

The standard sports seats can also be replaced by optional M Sport chairs with integrated headrests that offer a wider range of adjustment, memory function and illuminated M logos.

Still has a big boot

While there are racy upgrades, the M35i is as practical as any other model in the X1 line-up.

There’s a five-seat cabin and a boot that accommodates 540 litres of luggage, or 1,600 litres with the 40:20:40 split back seats folded flat.

BMW X1 M35i xDrive

Tech upgrades for the M35i include BMW’s latest iDrive system, featuring its Operating System 9. This comes with “Quick Select”, which is designed to make it easier to find the functions that you need, while the layout of the large, curved twin-screen display on the dashboard features an improved interface to cause less distraction for the driver.

Online services, voice control and smartphone integration are all included, while other kit includes four USB-C ports, twin 12V sockets and a suite of safety systems.

The X1 M35i will start from £45,995.

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