BMW X1 confirmed for US in 2011

[horatiub]

It was confirmed today that the BMW X1 is planned to debut in the United States in calendar year 2011. The X1 has been conceived with the flexibility to offer traditional rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive configurations, as well as a wide variety of gasoline and diesel powertrain choices. In light of rapidly evolving US market demands, fuel prices, and regulatory standards, elements of the X1’s US launch plan, including engine and drivetrain configurations, will be forthcoming closer to the time of launch.

The BMW X1 will debut in Europe this fall with a choice of four engines - one gasoline and three diesels - and will be available in rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive configurations. The X1 will set new benchmarks in the premium compact segment for efficiency, comfort, utility, and of course driving dynamics. Achieving up to 5.2 L/100km (45.2 miles per US gallon) on the European test cycle, the BMW Advanced Diesel-powered X1 sDrive18d will provide remarkable fuel efficiency while still achieving a top speed of 200km/h (124mph). Each drivetrain choice for the X1 will showcase the latest results of BMW’s EfficientDynamics engineering strategy, which is focused to reduce emissions and consumption while enhancing the performance expected of any BMW.

More photos were just posted on our blog also

[bbmertz]

Any speculation as to why the X1 will be launched in the US a year later than the introduction in Europe? Is it perhaps to avoid competing with the launch of the redesigned X3 which is rumored to be released in early 2010?

[TMQ]

X1 seems like a nice vehicle to have. It'll be great to get the diesel options in the U.S., but this is likely just wishful thinking.

[AzNMpower32]

There are various diesel and rear-wheel drive versions, but we will only get the xDrive28i version. Which means I couldn't care less for it.

[jkp1187]

There are various diesel and rear-wheel drive versions, but we will only get the xDrive28i version. Which means I couldn't care less for it.

If all they offer is the N52, I have no interest in it either. Has to be a diesel. It's supposed to be a utility vehicle, for pity's sake, I don't care what it looks like (EDIT: as long as it's not Aztek-ugly,) I don't care about its 1/4-mile times, I want it to be able to haul stuff with minimal fuel expenditure. (Oh, and handle like a Bimmer.) That's it.

[135eye]

which one is your blog?

[X3 Skier]

Can't wait for another ED!

Cheers

[AzNMpower32]

I realised that in Europe, the 6 cyl is only offered with an automatic. That's likely the case for the US as well.