An all-new BMW X1 is on the way, and it’ll pack plug-in hybrid power.

    The 2022 BMW X1 has been snapped during testing, hidden under heavy camouflage.

    There are plenty of false body panels in addition to the camouflage wrap, but we can see the third-generation X1 will have an all-new body compared to the recently-facelifted 2021 model.

    Up front, the grille appears to have been upsized in keeping with the X5 and X7, while the wheel arches appear squarer and more prominent than those of the current model.

    We can see the X1 will have lift-up door handles, much like the ones fitted to the upcoming 2 Series Active Tourer, i4 electric sedan, and range-topping iX electric crossover.

    Down back, expect to see taillights that closely mimic those of the aforementioned X5 and X7, while the roofline appears to slope more than that of the current car.

    Along with the plug-in hybrid on test here, the next-generation X1 will feature an all-electric model dubbed the iX1.

    Both the X1 and 5 Series will be sold “in the future” with four drivetrain types: diesel, petrol with 48V mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full battery electric.

    Launch dates for both the X1 EV and 5 Series EV have yet to be confirmed, but they could be coming soon rather later as BMW plans to have 25 electrified models on sale globally by 2023, with half being fully electric.

    Currently the BMW Group has two pure electric cars available: the i3 and the Mini Electric.

    A third EV was unveiled earlier this month: the iX3, a fully electric version of the X3 crossover, which will go on sale in Australia from around the middle of 2021.

    Two further pure-electric cars are due to be available globally by the end of 2021: the i4, based on the upcoming 4 Series Gran Coupe, and the flagship iX crossover.

    There will also be a fully electric version of the next-generation 7 Series sedan, possibly branded as the i7.

    Scott Collie

    Scott Collie is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne, Australia. Scott studied journalism at RMIT University and, after a lifelong obsession with everything automotive, started covering the car industry shortly afterwards. He has a passion for travel, and is an avid Melbourne Demons supporter.

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