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    2026 BMW X1 and X2 updates bring PHEV and MHEV power
    Automobiles

    2026 BMW X1 and X2 updates bring PHEV and MHEV power

    gvfx00@gmail.comBy No Comments3 Mins Read


    BMW Australia has confirmed running changes for its popular X1 and X2 compact SUVs, ahead of first customer deliveries in mid-2026.

    The 2026 BMW X1 and 2026 BMW X2 ranges are headlined by the move to Euro 6e emissions-compliant powertrains, meaning 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) tech for the entry-level grades and a new xDrive25e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant of the X1.

    At the same time, entry-level eDrive20 versions of the iX1 and iX2 electric vehicles (EVs) have been discontinued for the Australian market, though xDrive30 variants of the small electric SUVs now receive new silicon carbide (SiC) inverters which enhance performance, power density and driving range.

    Higher levels of standard specifications have also been applied across the range, along with pricing adjustments depending on the variant – some are up, and some are down.

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    2026 BMW X1 and iX1

    The biggest change for the X1/iX1 lineup is the addition of the xDrive25e PHEV, marking the first time plug-in hybrid powertrain technology has been available locally in the German brand’s premium compact SUV.

    Combining the base model’s 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with an 80kW electric motor and 14.2kWh battery, the BMW X1 xDrive25e offers system outputs of 180kW/477Nm and WLTP electric driving range of 78-86km. It’ll also scoot from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.8 seconds.

    The new X1 PHEV supports up to 11kW AC charging as standard, including on single- and three-phase power. At the maximum rate, BMW claims a full charge time of just one hour and 45 minutes.

    A new X1 sDrive20i base variant replaces the outgoing sDrive18i, augmenting the outgoing model’s 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 48V MHEV tech for the first time – the latter claiming to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and aid performance. It now makes 125kW/280Nm compared to its predecessor’s more modest 115kW/230Nm.

    BMW’s move to EU6e powertrains adds a petrol particulate filter (PPF), which now means M35i versions of both the X1 and X2 have seen 12kW reductions in power output, in line with European models.

    However, the entry variant now adds heated front seats over in addition to the outgoing sDrive18i’s standard specification, as well as electric front seat adjustment with memory presets – these features were previously optional equipment. Opting for the xDrive25e adds the M Sport Package with 19-inch alloy wheels (up from 18s), as well as the full Driving Assistant Professional active safety suite.

    Pricing

    The price of entry has risen by $3300, while the PHEV is $3100 dearer than the outgoing petrol-only xDrive20i. Pricing for the iX1 xDrive30 and X1 M35i xDrive is the same for 2026.