The BMW X1 launched the entry-level luxury SUV segment in India. And, with the launch of its second-generation, became the leader of its segment – albeit with a slight margin. But now the XC40 is here to spoil the party.
Back in 2011, BMW set the cat amongst the pigeons in the luxury segment with the launch of the first premium compact SUV, the X1. For the first time in the history of the Indian luxury automotive market, there was an SUV – albeit a crossover SUV – that was not only affordable but also carried one of the most desirable badges in the world. And the fact that the X1 was an SUV at an unexpectedly affordable price only accelerated demand. Consequently, customers were prepared to wait for months to get their hands on the X1 – which soon became the latest status symbol in town.
But it wasn’t long before other luxury brands caught up, and the segment saw a flurry of launches – like the Audi Q3 and Mercedes Benz GLA. The X1 lost it top dog status, but BMW wasn’t going to sit quietly and see the segment that it had launched slip away. And so, in 2016, the current-gen X1 was launched – not only bringing it back into contention but also making it the leader of the segment once again. Currently, it leads the compact luxury SUV segment by a slender margin over the GLA. And this segment is especially important for two customer categories – female buyers and first-time luxury car buyers.
However, the status quo of this segment is set for upheaval, with the launch of the Volvo XC40 – which will be launched on the 4th of July. You can read our review of the XC40 elsewhere in this issue. So, to keep it simple, in this feature we’ll focus on how it compares with the BMW X1.
Dressed for success
This story is from the July 2018 edition of autoX.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 2018 edition of autoX.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
GOOD OLD DAYS...
Is the old Marc Marquez finally back? The race in Jerez surely gave flashes of it...
Prancing Off-Road
The SUV trend has even caught on with Ferrari, which is evident with the introduction of the Purosangue. However, does a Ferrari of this type really make sense?
Ahead of the Curve
There's not one but two new GT variants available with the Volkswagen Taigun now, meaning there's one for everyone!
SPACE WARS
There are plenty of budget-friendly seven-seat MPVs on the market, but what if you desire ample space without compromising on style?
GOING BIG
The 3XO makes big promises on all fronts - from features and safety to styling and value proposition. But does it deliver on these promises?
HAMMER TIME
The new Gurkha 5-door comes with updated styling, improved performance, and better features. So, do these changes make it the practical 'proper' off-roader we've all been waiting for?
MOUNTAIN GOAT
With a mid-life facelift, the Jeep Wrangler has received several noteworthy upgrades. But does it truly live up to the reputation of being unstoppable
SUPERSPORT TRILOGY
We embark on a 300km journey on three of the finest supersport twins in the world. Which one would reign supreme at the end?
SECOND WIND
Bajaj is once again stirring the pot with the updated Pulsar N250. But has it nailed the recipe this time around?
PASSION & Precision
A brand new V12 supercar! In this era of downsizing & electrification, that's about as rare as seeing a total eclipse and the Northern Lights on the same day. But if the V12 remains the heart & soul of the automobile, well, then, Ferrari is its saviour.
