The E84 BMW X1 is a subcompact crossover SUV/C-segment model was produced from 2009 to 2015. It is the first generation model of the BMW X1 range, and was replaced by the F48 BMW X1 in mid-2015. When launched, it was the smallest SUV in the BMW lineup.[7]
Development and launch
Development of the vehicle started in 2006 as petrol prices were going up, BMW identified the need for a smaller and more efficient model in its SUV line-up. As the result, it was reported that BMW has shortened the development and pre-production time by 40 percent compared to previous X Series models.[8]
The project director of the X1, Peter Kist commented that "never before has BMW produced a model that is meant for such a wide customer range." He pointed out it is suitable for young people and older people, and as X1 is the first BMW X Series to be available in the sDrive trim (two-wheel drive), it is suitable for customers who do not need off-road capability.[8]