The aggressive and powerful 2024 BMW X1 M35i xDrive makes its official debut

Say hello to the 2024 X1 M35i xDrive, BMW's most powerful iteration of the X1 crossover. The X1 M351i xDrive showcases a new 2.0-liter engine and a much more aggressive design that matches its performance capabilities. Furthermore, the X1 M35i xDrive will also claim the honor of being the first BMW offering to feature the cutting-edge iDrive 9 infotainment system, set to launch in the United States this October.

Although it falls short of being a complete X1 M, this rendition offers more than mere M badges. It gets more power, enhanced brakes, adaptive dampers as a standard feature, and an array of sporty exterior add-ons over the standard X1.

The 2024 X1 M35i power comes from a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, which is an upgraded version of the base xDrive28i model. While it maintains the same Miller cycle as the standard engine, it delivers substantially greater power: 312 hp and 400 Nm of torque, a remarkable increase of 71 hp. This model features a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and the xDrive all-wheel drive as standard, accompanied by a limited-slip differential for improved performance. BMW offers M compound brakes as an option to provide an additional enhancement to the driving experience. All of these changes add up to a zero to 100 km/h sprint time of just 5.2 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 249 km/h.

Going back a bit to the optional M compound brakes. The M compound system employs a four-piston caliper with 15.2-inch drilled discs for the front wheels, while the back wheels utilize single-piston units with 13.0-inch discs. The brake calipers are elegantly finished in gloss grey and can stay stealthy and low-key behind either standard 19-inch wheels or the optional 20-inch wheels. Further making the X1 M35i a fearsome weapon are the inclusion of adjustable M Suspension and sport steering.

All those upgrades are for naught if the upgraded X1 remains wrapped with its base appearance. To match the power, BMW gives the X1 M35i an aggressive exterior redesign. It now features larger air intakes integrated into the front fascia, prominent side skirt extensions, a distinctive model-specific roof spoiler, and a rear apron with a newly designed diffuser in which you’ll find quad exhaust pipes.

Inside the cabin, the X1 M35i offers a suite of impressive features. Optional M sport seats, an Alcantara-trimmed instrument panel, and an anthracite-colored roof liner are found inside. However, the true highlight lies in the latest iteration of BMW's iDrive infotainment system. The X1 M35i xDrive becomes the pioneering model from BMW to use the brand’s iDrive 9 technology. This advanced system introduces a redesigned home screen and an improved menu structure, taking inspiration from consumer electronic devices and ensuring a seamless and user-friendly interface. Beemer fans over in the US will be able to get the sportier X1 later this year on October 2023.