Luxury carmaker BMW Group India has announced the launch of the X1 long wheelbase (LWB) sports activity vehicle, starting at ₹49.90 lakh ex-showroom. The vehicle is locally produced at the company's manufacturing plant located in Chennai.
According to the company, the new model is introduced in a petrol variant and features a 1.5-litre petrol engine utilizing BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The engine produces an output of 115 kW/156 hp and a maximum torque of 230 Nm at 1,500-4,600 rpm, delivering a reported fuel efficiency of 15.5 km/l. Additionally, the automaker stated that the engine is capable of running on ethanol-blended petrol of up to 25 per cent (E25).
In terms of dimensions, the X1 LWB measures 4,616 mm in length, 2,104 mm in width, and 1,641 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,800 mm. BMW Group India noted that these measurements make the vehicle the longest car in its segment and one of the most spacious five-seater SUVs available in the Indian market.
Hardeep Singh Brar, President and Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group India, stated at the launch that the BMW X1 has previously established success in the domestic luxury SUV segment by combining performance, versatility, and premium ownership.
Alongside the X1 LWB launch, BMW Group India also unveiled the BMW i5 long wheelbase, an all-electric sedan, and opened order books for the vehicle. The electric model will also be locally produced in India and is equipped with an 81.7kWh battery, offering an estimated driving range of about 669 km. The company announced that deliveries for the BMW i5 long wheelbase will commence in the next three weeks, with official pricing to be revealed around the same time.
"The local manufacturing of luxury vehicles such as the new BMW X1 long wheelbase and the upcoming electric i5 highlights the strong focus global automotive brands place on the Indian market. By producing locally, companies can optimize operational costs while tailoring products directly to consumer preferences for space and efficiency. The integration of E25 fuel capability and expansion into electric mobility also demonstrates how traditional automakers are adapting their product pipelines to align with evolving regulatory standards and consumer demands." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes
