URIQUE, Mexico -- BMW of North America has added semi-autonomous and technology features from its more expensive models to the redesigned X1 compact crossover because of growing competition in the segment.
The 2016 X1 goes on sale in late October as BMW's entry nameplate in the premium compact crossover segment, which also includes the X3 and X4. The X1 competes with such vehicles as the Audi Q3, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.
The features are not new to BMW, but "they are premium features most customers do not expect," John Kelly, X1 product manager, said at a press event here.
The competition has some similar features but "not as complete" a palette of options, he said.
For instance, the new head-up display is bigger and in color. The headlights are full LEDs. The hands-free feature to open the tailgate is unique in the segment, Kelly said.
And the X1 now looks like part of the X family with its more muscular stance and square wheel arches with standard 18-inch tires, Kelly said.
BMW of North America initially didn't want the current X1 when it went on sale in Europe in 2011. The vehicle was in short supply because of brisk sales elsewhere, and U.S. management forecast annual sales of only about 5,000 units.
Sales of the current X1 in the United States started in August 2012. Sales topped 20,000 units in 2013 and 2014. Through September this year, BMW sold 10,258 X1s. Kelly would not give a specific sales forecast but said the X1 likely will top its peak of 26,512 units in 2013.
BMW is increasing the price of its redesigned base X1 crossover by about $1,800 and adding standard features.
The X1 xDrive28i will start at $35,795, including shipping. Unlike the previous generation that had standard front-wheel drive, the revamped X1 comes standard with all-wheel drive. The 2016 X1 goes on sale Oct. 24.
The X1 is the first vehicle in the United States to use BMW's new generation of four-cylinder engines and is powered by a 2.0-liter with 228 hp. Mini uses a version of the engine in its redesigned models.
The X1 is also on the UKL BMW Group architecture being used for all Minis and BMW compact cars.
The new 2.0-liter four-cylinder TwinPower turbo engine enables the X1 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Fuel economy remains unchanged at 22 mpg city, 32 highway.
The redesigned model is 71.7 inches wide and 175.4 inches long. Interior room and cargo room have been improved.
