When the first ever BMW X1 was launched in 2009, it heralded in the era of the compact crossover. And with the SUV segment having blown wide open in recent years, it is unsurprising that the second generation model (launched in 2015) has become the brand's best-selling SUV model - in 2018 it was the highest-selling BMW X model worldwide.

Now, BMW has updated the X1 in its mid-cycle facelift, bringing with it a raft of changes and improvements to cement its place as the segment leader.

The new, larger grille at the front (with the kidneys now merged in the middle) are flanked on either side by slimmer LED head lights. This, combined with a new front bumper and larger air intakes, creates a more muscular and dominant visual presence.

The rear also features an updated design that underscores the muscular stance of the X1, with the LED rear lights featuring a new design with a single LED bar the draws the familiar L signature from side to side. Additionally, the tailpipes have also been made bigger (from 70mm to 90mm in diameter), further underscoring the cars athletic demeanour.

While it may be a compact crossover, the X1 utilises clever packaging solutions to deliver maximum interior practicality and versatility. The 40:20:40 split rear bench allows you maximum versatility when it comes to storage space, while the rear seats can also be adjusted front and back by 13cm. This also allows you to expand the boot space from 505 litres to a maximum of 1,550 litres. 

Of course, BMW has also taken steps to improve the overall comfort and quality of the cabin. A new contrast stitching is available on the instrument panel (offered on the xLine and M Sport variants), and matches the car's individual upholstery colour.

The BMW X1 is also offered with new upholstery variants. Base models can opt for the optional sports seats with the cloth/Sensatec combination in Anthracite with Grey accenting. M Sport models comes standard with Micro Hexagon fabric/Sensatec upholstery in Black with M piping.

As standard, the base model X1 is fitted with a 6.5-inch free standing Control Display. The xLine and M Sport variants come fitted with navigation, and is offered in Singapore with an 8.8-inch Touch Control Display, running the sixth generation iDrive operating concept. In the instrument cluster, the base trim gets a 2.7-inch TFT Info Display, while the xLine and M Sport variants feature a 5.7-inch TFT Info Display.

The updated BMW X1 will be offered in Singapore in two petrol options (carried over from the pre-facelift models) - the sDrive18i and the sDrive20i. The sDrive18i is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine producing 138bhp and 220Nm of torque. The sDrive20i utilises a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 189bhp and 280Nm of torque.

BMW is also adding a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) option in the form of the X1 xDrive25e, due to enter production in March 2020. It utilises BMW's fourth generation PHEV technology with a gross energy content of 9.7kWh, capable of up to 50km of all electric range. The X1 xDrive25e is expected to be made available in Singapore in the third quarter of 2020. 

The updated BMW X1 goes on sale in Singapore this Friday, 4 October.