BMW X1 LWB India Launch Tomorrow: Bigger, More Powerful and Loaded With Features — Here’s What to Expect…

The wait for BMW’s newest luxury SUV in India is almost over. The German automaker is all set to announce the prices of the BMW X1 LWB tomorrow, bringing a longer and more spacious version of its popular entry-level SUV to the Indian market.

Pre-bookings for the model have already begun, and the X1 LWB is expected to target buyers who want the practicality of a family SUV without giving up the premium experience associated with BMW.

The biggest talking point is, naturally, the additional space. Compared with the standard BMW X1, the long-wheelbase version gets a significantly stretched body and a longer wheelbase, which should translate into more room for rear passengers.

BMW X1 LWB gets a much longer wheelbase

The new BMW X1 LWB is around 116mm longer than the standard X1, while its wheelbase has been extended by approximately 108mm.

That additional wheelbase is expected to be particularly useful for rear-seat passengers. In a market such as India, where chauffeur-driven luxury cars and family-focused SUVs remain popular, extra rear legroom could become one of the X1 LWB’s strongest selling points.

The extended body also gives the SUV a slightly more substantial road presence compared with the standard X1.

Only a petrol engine for India

Unlike some BMW models that offer multiple powertrain options, the X1 LWB is expected to be sold in India exclusively with a petrol engine.

Power comes from a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 156bhp and 230Nm of peak torque.

Interestingly, the long-wheelbase model gets 22bhp more power than the standard X1’s corresponding setup.

A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) will handle transmission duties, giving the SUV an automatic-only configuration.

For buyers looking for a compact luxury SUV with a little more punch, the stronger engine could make the X1 LWB an interesting proposition.

BMW X1 LWB features: Plenty of premium equipment

BMW appears to be giving the new SUV a comprehensive equipment list.

The BMW X1 LWB is expected to feature a panoramic sunroof, adding to the premium feel of the cabin. Safety and driver assistance equipment will also be a major part of the package, with Level 2 ADAS expected to be available.

Other notable features include:

• Eight airbags
• Powered tailgate
• Dual-zone climate control
• Large curved display on the dashboard
• Wireless smartphone charger
• Digital key
• Powered front seats
• Driver seat memory function
• ORVM memory function

The combination of technology, comfort and safety equipment should help the X1 LWB compete strongly in India’s luxury SUV segment.

More space could be the real USP

While the extra power and features will certainly attract attention, the extended wheelbase is arguably the most important change.

The standard X1 already occupies a popular position in BMW’s lineup, but the X1 LWB appears to be designed specifically for customers who want more rear-seat comfort without stepping up to a considerably larger and more expensive SUV.

The additional 108mm of wheelbase could make a noticeable difference during long journeys, especially for passengers sitting in the second row.

BMW X1 LWB India launch and price

BMW is expected to officially announce the X1 LWB’s India price tomorrow.

The company has already opened pre-bookings for the SUV, signalling that deliveries could follow soon after the price announcement.

The final pricing will be crucial. The X1 LWB will need to strike the right balance between its additional space, stronger engine and premium equipment while remaining competitive against other luxury SUVs available in India.

For now, BMW has certainly created enough curiosity around the new model. With a stretched body, more powerful petrol engine and a feature-packed cabin, the BMW X1 LWB could become one of the more interesting new luxury SUV launches in India this year.