The rumor of a possible BMW X1 M35i xDrive spread like fire on the interwebs in the past few days. The usual suspect Scott27, a long-time BMW insider, adds fuel to the fire by mentioning an M-tuned X1 making its way to American shores.
First and foremost, take the following report with a grain of salt, Scott27′s reports have been known to be a hit or miss. Also, we have not been able to confirm the following rumor with any of our other sources and BMW won’t comment on future products.
With this little caveat out of the way, let’s dig into the report. The BMW source says that the X1 facelifted model represents the perfect opportunity for BMW to launch its new M Performance Automobiles line in the United States. The “regular” X1 has been scheduled to launch this fall for American customers, a year later after its North American debut in Canada.
BMW X1 M-Sport Package
The X1 M35i xDrive is said to be powered by the same unit as the upcoming M135i Hatchback, a six-cylinder turbocharged unit with 320 horsepower. The chassis and suspensions are tuned and reworked by the M division promising excellent driving dynamics.
Visually, the X1 M35i will make use of a refreshed M aerodynamic package with specific M wheels and M performance features, such as seats and trim. The LCI X1 brings to the customer the full LED lights package seen on higher-end models.
BMW aims the X1 M35i at the upcoming Audi Q13 S-Performance model.
If BMW indeed has plans for such model, we expect to see the first test prototypes hitting the road in Spring.
[Source: xbimmers ]
Author: Horatiu Boeriu
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2012/02/20/specu ... o-the-u-s/