Despite BMW earlier stating the X1 xDrive30e was not destined for South Africa, this 240 kW plug-in variant has quietly joined the local line-up as SA’s most affordable PHEV…

When the wraps came off the U11-generation BMW X1 range in mid-2022, the German firm said the X1 xDrive30e PHEV would “not be offered in South Africa”. However, the company appears to have done an abrupt about-turn as this dual-powered derivative has now quietly joined the local line-up.

Yes, the plug-in hybrid version slots in above the purely petrol- and diesel-powered X1 variants, priced from R1 050000 in standard xLine trim and R1 090000 in optional M Sport guise. That makes it the most affordable PHEV on the local market. Of course, the newcomer is not to be confused with the fully electric iX1 xDrive30e, which kicks off at R1 205000. As a result, the X1 range now includes petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and fully electric offerings.

So, what do we know about the X1 xDrive30e’s plug-in powertrain? Well, it comprises the Munich-based automaker’s familiar turbocharged 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol mill along with a “highly integrated” electric drive unit and a 16.3 kWh (14.2 kWh net) lithium-ion battery pack. The petrol motor generates 110 kW/240 Nm and drives the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the 130 kW/247 Nm electric motor powers the rear axle.

BMW says the X1 xDrive30e is capable of travelling on battery power alone for up to 90 km.

Total system outputs stand at 240 kW and 477 Nm (yes, that makes it more powerful than the recently revealed X1 M35i), which allows the X1 xDrive30e PHEV to complete the obligatory 0-100 kph sprint in a claimed 5.6 seconds before topping out at 205 kph. The high-voltage battery pack is positioned in the vehicle floor and offers an all-electric (claimed) range of 90 km, on the WLTP cycle.

The vehicle’s maximum charging capacity is listed as 7.4 kW, which BMW says allows it to be fully recharged from empty in 2.5 hours when using an AC wallbox. Hooked up to a conventional domestic power socket, a full charge is completed in a claimed 7.75 hours. As a result of its ability to use only electric power for periods, the X1 xDrive30e’s claimed combined fuel-economy figure is a rock-bottom 1.6 L/100 km, with a corresponding CO2 figure of just 36 g/km.

The xLine version is available with an optional R24500 Equipment package that adds items such as adaptive LED headlights, high-beam assist, comfort access, a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. The M Sport derivative, meanwhile, can be specified with the R30000 M Sport package Pro, which includes M Sport brakes, the high-gloss Shadow Line kit, tweaked headlights, a chunkier rear spoiler and M seatbelts.

There’s also the Equipment package Professional (R43500), Deluxe Package (R40000), 19-inch V-spoke alloy wheels (R15000) and various upholstery options, not to mention a range of paint colours from which to choose.

How much does the BMW X1 xDrive30e PHEV cost in SA?

BMW X1 xDrive30e xLine – R1 050000

BMW X1 xDrive30e M Sport – R1 090000

The price above includes a 5-year/100 000 km Motorplan (though BMW Group SA says buyers can “elect to opt out” of this arrangement at the point of vehicle purchase).

Find a used BMW X1 on Cars.co.za!

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