BMW Launches X1 sDrive18i Locally, RM 208,368

The smallest SAV in the BMW range gets a new entry-level variant that seems to be a lot of bang for the buck, becoming the most affordable BMW here.

With the decreasing appetite for sedans and annual floods that could leave you stranded, it’s no surprise that more Malaysians are going for crossovers and SUVs regardless of which segment they’re shopping in. In BMW’s case, their SAVs (A for Activity) have proved highly popular, with their smallest offering being the X1 that had its facelift locally debut earlier this year.

Today, BMW Malaysia welcomes the smallest variant to the X1 family in the form of the sDrive18i. It slots in below the sDrive20i that represents the majority of X1s on the road for this generation; powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that pushes 140 hp and 220 Nm of torque, these are still pretty solid performance figures.

As is the case with the sDrive suffix, power is only delivered to two wheels – in the case of this generation of X1, those two wheels happen to be at the front. The power gets there through a seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch gearbox, a unit we’re familiar with in various front-wheel drive BMW and MINI models.

What usually becomes the sore point of picking an entry-level variant is that you can feel short changed on features and trim, but BMW Malaysia seems to have done an excellent job in keeping the functionality consistent with the other X1 variants. The sDrive18i still gets a large 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, with black high gloss and Pearl Chrome trim finishes and Leather Dakota upholstery.

There are also driving assistance systems as the X1 sDrive18i comes with BMW Personal CoPilot, which includes items like Frontal Collision Warning with braking intervention, High-beam Assistant, speed limit info, and Lane Departure Warning. You certainly aren’t getting short changed on any items here – both front seats remain electrically adjustable too.

Other details to note are its boot space at a solid 505 litres – best in class – with the ability to expand up to 1,550 litres when the rear seats are dropped. Comfort access functionality lets you open and close the powered tailgate without having to actually trigger the microswitch – a help when your hands are full with groceries or other items.

From today onwards, you can check the X1 sDrive18i out for yourself at all authorized BMW dealers nationwide. Going for RM 208,368, the X1 sDrive18i also comes with a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program, Roadside Assistance, the BMW Privileges Card, and BMW Services online.