BMW Philippines is set to have one hectic year this 2023. After launching the iX3 and the face-lifted G20 3-Series, it’s finally the turn of the baby SAV of the range, the BMW X1, to get its much-needed update.

Meet the third-generation U11 model, which is a total revamp in every way over the previous-generation F48. How so? Well, it prioritizes electrification, with most of the powertrains offering some electric motor or mild-hybrid assist. It even comes with its own dedicated EV model called the iX1.

For a more in-depth look at the vehicle, you can check out our drive article of the car as we drove it around Germany during its international media launch.

The Philippine-spec X1 comes in the rugged xLine design pack, which further accentuates its boxy yet aerodynamic styling and square wheel arches. It’s completed by the redesigned adaptive LED headlights and 3D-shaped taillights, the box-shaped grille, and the 18-inch star-spoke style wheels.

The interior has been revamped completely, featuring an angular BMW Curved Display running OS 8 on a pair of 10.25- and 10.7-inch screens. There’s a wireless charging dock underneath, and the new iDrive operating system focuses more on voice control with the Intelligent Voice Assistant, which explains the reduction of physical controls and the loss of the iDrive controller.

The electronically adjustable (with memory) sports seats are upholstered in black perforated Sensatec synthetic leather, complete with improved passive safety thanks to a new airbag found in between the front seats.

The rear row offers more legroom and headroom for passengers at the back compared to the previous generation, and the 540L of cargo capacity for the trunk can be expanded to 1,600L when you fold down the 40:20:40 split backrests.

Thankfully, fans of the previous X1’s diesel engine can rest easy as it retains the B47, a 2.0-liter in-line-four turbodiesel with 150hp and 350Nm, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The X1’s safety suite is more feature-packed, including automatic headlights with rain-sensing wipers, cruise control with braking, a front-collision warning system that’s capable of detecting pedestrians and cyclists when turning right, and the Parking Assistant with Reversing Assist.

The BMW X1 sDrive18d xLine costs P3.89 million, and comes with a comprehensive five-year factory warranty. Fingers crossed that BMW Philippines introduces the iX1 soon, as it is slated to launch several more vehicles within the year. But for now, the subcompact luxury crossover segment just got a little more interesting.