German luxury automaker BMW has expanded its lineup in India with the official release of the X1 Long Wheelbase (LWB), priced at ₹49.90 lakh (ex-showroom). Positioned alongside the standard wheelbase X1 and the fully electric iX1, this new variant comes with an attractive price tag, costing ₹1 lakh less than the standard X1 and ₹1.50 lakh less than the iX1 LWB. Assembled locally at the manufacturing facility in Chennai, the petrol-only model has been specifically tailored for buyers who prioritize legroom, seating comfort, and an upgraded rear-cabin environment in a premium compact SUV.
Substantial Dimension Upgrades and Enhanced Rear Cabin Space
The defining characteristic of the X1 LWB is its significantly altered footprint, designed to offer superior roominess compared to rivals such as the Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. The vehicle measures 4,616 mm in total length, representing an increase of 116 mm over the standard model. Furthermore, its wheelbase has been stretched by 108 mm to reach 2,800 mm. This structural extension directly translates into a remarkable 109 mm of additional knee-room for rear passengers, making long journeys substantially more relaxed. Comfort is further bolstered by rear seat cushions that are 15 mm longer, providing superior thigh support alongside reclining seatbacks.
In terms of utility, the cabin does not compromise on cargo capacity. The rear luggage compartment offers a generous boot space of 540 liters in its standard layout. For occasions requiring extra carrying capability, folding down the rear seats expands the total cargo volume up to 1,700 liters.
Exterior Styling Elements and Color Options
While the overall design language remains closely aligned with the standard X1, the LWB iteration stands out due to its extended side profile, which gives the SUV a more commanding road presence. Premium detailing is evident across the exterior, including chrome window lines, styled door sills, and silver accent inserts integrated into the rear bumper. The lighting setup retains signature LED headlamps and LED tail lamps, while the side profile is anchored by stylish 18-inch alloy wheels. Customers can choose from four distinct paint shades: Mineral White, Carbon Black, Night Dusk Blue, and Skyscraper Grey.
Interior Equipment and Advanced Technology
Inside the cabin, the SUV comes packed with high-end convenience and infotainment features. Dominating the dashboard is the BMW Curved Display, which seamlessly integrates the digital instrument cluster with the central touchscreen infotainment setup. System operations are driven by BMW OS 9, delivering a modern digital user interface. Additional cabin highlights include a Harman Kardon audio system, a fixed glass roof that illuminates the interior, dual-zone automatic climate control, powered front seats, wireless smartphone charging, a digital key feature, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system.
Powertrain, Performance, and Safety Systems
Under the hood, the X1 LWB is powered exclusively by a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine capable of generating 154 bhp of maximum power and 230 Nm of peak torque. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. BMW has opted not to offer a diesel engine variant in the LWB configuration. To compensate for the lengthened chassis, the suspension setup has been specially tuned for extra comfort, smoothing out road irregularities. The SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9.3 seconds.
Safety equipment is equally extensive. The vehicle is fitted with eight airbags, including a dedicated knee airbag for driver protection. Advanced driver assistance is provided through Level-2 ADAS features, which include autonomous emergency braking and lane keep assist. Parking maneuvers are simplified using Park Assist Plus with Reversing Assistant, complemented by standard safety technology such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), dynamic stability control (DSC), and a tire pressure monitoring system.
