Next-Generation BMW iX1 Prototype Spotted Testing in Spain
A prototype of the next-generation BMW iX1 has been spotted testing in Spain, confirming that it is a complete redesign on the Neue Klasse platform rather than just a mid-cycle facelift. This sighting adds to a series of tests that have taken the vehicle from the Nürburgring to the Arctic Circle. Spain has become a favored location for BMW's warm-weather development work, and the iX1 prototype is covered in camouflage that has been seen on test vehicles since last September. The camouflage is intended to conceal the vehicle's design rather than indicate that it is merely a facelift of the current model.
One of the most noticeable features of the new iX1 is its vertical kidney grille, which protrudes slightly from the front, similar to the designs used on the iX3 and iX5 models. This design choice indicates that BMW is reserving the vertical grille for its crossover and SUV models, while lower-riding vehicles like the i3 sedan will feature a different, horizontal grille design.
The prototype also showcases new door designs, with electrically operated handles that stand out from the bodywork, a feature already seen on the iX3. If BMW aims to market this vehicle in China, it may need to modify these handles to comply with local safety regulations regarding flush door handles, as seen with previous models.
At the rear, the tailgate has been redesigned, with the license plate now positioned lower than on the current iX1. A horizontal bulge across the tailgate suggests the presence of nearly full-width taillights, a design element that echoes the styling of the iX3 and iX5.
The current iX1 shares its architecture with the combustion engine X1, which features a front-wheel-drive layout. However, the next-generation iX1 will switch to a rear-wheel-drive configuration, as the Neue Klasse platform does not support front-wheel drive. This means that even the base model will start with rear-wheel drive, with dual-motor xDrive variants available as well.
Inside, the new iX1 is expected to incorporate BMW's latest iDrive X system, which includes advanced features like a pillar-to-pillar Panoramic Vision windshield projection and fewer physical controls compared to the current model. It remains uncertain whether it will feature the same 17.9-inch central touchscreen found in larger Neue Klasse models.
The transition to rear-wheel drive will also include BMW's sixth-generation battery technology, which utilizes cylindrical cells that reportedly offer around 20 percent greater energy density than the current battery pack. Charging speeds are expected to improve beyond the existing iX1's 130 kW limit, although specific figures have not yet been confirmed by BMW.
The gasoline-powered X1 will retain its front-wheel-drive architecture while adopting Neue Klasse styling and interior technology, with production anticipated to begin in 2027. The electric iX1 is expected to follow later that year, debuting on the Neue Klasse platform, with a public unveiling likely within the next year and deliveries projected for 2028. However, these timelines have not been officially confirmed by BMW, so they should be viewed as estimates rather than definitive dates.
