It’s been a minute since we last saw the new BMW X1 M35i. By that time, the little crossover had lost some camouflage, and by that we mean it was gone most from the cover. What’s left now are the parts that set the M35i trim apart from the rest.
Of course, the 2023 X1 actually debuted in May, but the M35i will offer a more aggressive look and more power to back it up. BMW installed four exhaust outlets at the rear, which of course required a unique bumper, but as we’ve said before, this isn’t a complete M model. Moving our gaze higher, we can now see the taillights and hatch design match the lower specs of the X1. However there is a slightly larger roof spoiler.
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At the front, it’s now easier to see details on the lower fascia. The vertically oriented large-angle vents are still in the mix, but we see a clearer angle towards the underside of the fascia. The small vertical bar on the bottom grille will create a bit more drama than the regular X1, but it doesn’t look quite as lively as the larger X3 M. Notice the camouflage wrap is still on the side mirror – there may be a cap hiding underneath.
The interior should be a standard 2023 X1 edition, with the possibility of upgraded sports seats and a thicker steering wheel. As it stands, the X1 has a handsome glass cockpit with a 10.25-inch driver screen and a 10.7-inch center screen, all housed under one large display.
We say the X1 M35i is not a standalone M vehicle, and that comes from its engine. It’s no slouch, as we’ve heard the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder will get a bump of around 315 horsepower. The factory already produces 302 hp for the M135 Series 1, so even if there weren’t any upgrades for that engine in the X1, it would still be faster than the base 241-hp model. All-wheel-drive is standard on the X1, so power will flow to every wheel.
With the 2023 X1 already enjoying the standard trim and flying camouflage of the M35i prototype, there’s every reason to believe the reveal may be just a few weeks away. We’ll have to see it before the end of 2022. In the meantime, have a look Chatting About Cars podcasts for more automotive news and hilarious automotive banter, available below.
