BMW X1 LWB bookings open in India ahead of August 21 launch: Bigger, roomier SUV takes aim at Audi Q3 and Mercedes GLA

The BMW X1 is about to get a bigger and more family-friendly sibling in India. BMW India has opened pre-launch bookings for the new BMW X1 Long Wheelbase (LWB), with the luxury SUV scheduled to make its official India debut on August 21, 2026.

Customers interested in the upcoming SUV can book it through BMW India’s authorised dealer network or register their interest through the company’s official website. The new model will be locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai, underlining the importance of the Indian market for the German luxury carmaker.

The biggest talking point is, quite literally, the extra space. BMW says the X1 LWB will be the longest and most spacious vehicle in its segment, with the additional length primarily aimed at improving rear-seat roominess and passenger comfort. That could make the stretched X1 particularly appealing to Indian buyers who often place a high premium on rear-seat space.

The new SUV is being positioned as a more practical evolution of the X1 rather than a completely different product. BMW’s focus is on combining the additional cabin space with the technology, premium feel and driving dynamics associated with the X1 nameplate.

BMW X1 LWB: What about the engines?

BMW has not yet revealed the complete India-specification details and pricing of the new X1 LWB ahead of its launch. However, the existing India-spec X1 gives some indication of what the company currently offers in the segment.

The standard-wheelbase BMW X1 is presently available with petrol and diesel powertrains. BMW India’s official model information lists the X1 with petrol and diesel options, with the current range starting at around ₹50.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

The current petrol X1 uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing around 134 bhp and 230 Nm, while the diesel version gets a 2.0-litre engine developing around 148 bhp and 360 Nm. Both are paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, according to the details provided for the existing model.

The final engine and variant lineup for the upcoming X1 LWB in India will be clearer when BMW officially unveils the SUV on August 21.

BMW already has an electric X1 LWB in India

Interestingly, the long-wheelbase formula is not entirely new for BMW in India.

The BMW iX1 LWB, the electric counterpart of the X1, is already sold in the country. BMW’s current India model range lists the iX1 LWB from ₹52.40 lakh, although prices can change depending on the applicable model and configuration.

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The electric LWB model measures 4,616 mm in length and has a 2,800 mm wheelbase, giving it a noticeable advantage in cabin space. Its technical specifications include a 204 hp electric motor and a claimed MIDC range of up to 531 km.

This gives BMW a fairly interesting position in India’s premium compact SUV market: customers can now choose between the familiar internal-combustion X1 formula and the electric iX1 LWB, while the upcoming petrol/diesel X1 LWB is expected to bring the additional space to buyers who are not ready to make the switch to an EV.

BMW X1 LWB vs Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3

Once launched, the BMW X1 LWB will enter a competitive luxury SUV space that includes rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Audi Q3.

The BMW’s biggest advantage could be its focus on rear-seat comfort. Indian luxury SUV buyers increasingly want a vehicle that works equally well for self-driving and chauffeur-driven use, and the longer wheelbase could help the X1 stand out on exactly that front.

Pricing will, however, be crucial. With the standard X1 already positioned around the ₹51 lakh mark, the new LWB version is likely to attract attention from buyers who want more space without moving into a much larger and more expensive luxury SUV.

For now, BMW is keeping some of the key details under wraps. But with bookings already open and the launch date confirmed for August 21, the wait for India’s latest long-wheelbase luxury SUV is almost over.

Note: Final prices, variants, features and India-specific specifications of the BMW X1 LWB should be confirmed at the official launch. Prices mentioned above are ex-showroom figures and may change.