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2016 BMW F48 X1 Looks Production Ready Testing on the Nurburgring

Probably the most anticipated debut from BMW that will happen this year (excluding the flagship, of course) is the new X1. Leaving aside all of its potential flaws that we’ll get into in a minute, the crossover is still a lot of car within its pricing range.
BMW X1 testing against AMG GT 1 photo
Photo: screenshot from Youtube
Our spy photographers caught what looked like a production ready prototype testing its wheels off on the Nurburgring the other day, and we have to say that those pilots seem adamant to get everything out of it.

The car can be seen driven to its absolute limits and properly thrashed around, trying to get the best configuration for it. The thing is, it’s all redundant since not one of the prospective owners will take it to the track. That’s if BMW decides to keep the M division out of its development.

The chances of an M Performance or M version of the X1 to come out in the near future are very slim to put it kindly. According to BMW officials, there’s no way in hell a front-wheel drive model will get the M treatment anytime soon.

Even so, the plants that will be used under its bonnet should be good for some serious power. Most likely, the most powerful version of the range will be the xDrive25i fitted with a 2-liter 4-cylinder plant making 231 HP. That’s if BMW decides not to give the X1 the same engine that will be used on the new 330i that, rumor has it, will have closer to 300 HP from the same block.

Inside the cabin, the migration to a FWD layout will translate into more room, and we’re expecting more comfort and tech. The overall design will resemble the one in the 2 Series Active Tourer but not completely, the SUV keeping some cues for its own.

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