BMW Xt

The Bavarian’s best-selling SUV gets better than ever before

- ABHAY VERMA

The X1 isn't just BMW's best-selling SUV in India, it's also the highest selling luxury SUV in the country, which should give you some perspective about its importance. I'll be honest, I was a little disappointed when BMW switched to a front wheel drive layout for the second generation X1, though I can't deny the fact that the layout helped BMW make the SUV more spacious. Not to forget the fact that the second generation X1 felt a lot more premium and luxurious, which added to its desirability. And the recipe continues with the all-new, third generation X1.

First things first, I have no doubts in stating that this is the best looking X1 till date. It has grown in size, but the bigger news is that it looks smashing from every angle. In fact, given the larger dimensions and new design, it also looks as if it belongs to a higher segment. And that's because there's very obvious design inspirations from the X3, besides which this new X1 is nearly as large as older iterations of the X3, as it is 53mm longer, 24mm wider, and 44mm taller than the previous X1.

Admittedly, I do like the kidneys on this one as they go well with the sharper headlamp design and bumper both. The headlamps are adaptive ones and use a clever design that makes it appear as if there's twin headlamps inside the housing. I'm also digging the new X1's side profile, as the flat bonnet, longer wheelbase and design for the 18-inch wheels make it look very appealing while the roof spoiler does its job of helping the SUV look better really well. I'm liking the rear end more than the front though - the tail lamps use a clean but sharp 3-dimensional design, the spoiler has a kink and the rear bumper looks sporty, besides housing faux diffusers. Overall, like I mentioned this is the best looking X1 yet with excellent road presence, especially in this trademark blue.