BMW’s compact SUV model that debuted in 2009 was the BMW X1.
The first-generation X1, internally designated E84, was BMW’s smallest SUV when it arrived. BMW previewed it with the Concept X1 at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, then began production in 2009. The vehicle shared its 2,760-millimetre wheelbase and much of its engineering with the E90-generation 3 Series.
The X1 name can be confusing because BMW’s SUV range also includes the larger X3 and X5, while the X6 is a coupe-styled SUV. The original X1 was unusual within BMW’s X family because rear-wheel drive was available as standard on some versions, with xDrive all-wheel drive offered separately.
The E84 X1 remained in production until 2015 and was followed by a second-generation model based on BMW’s front-wheel-drive UKL platform. A fully electric version, the iX1, joined the third-generation range introduced in 2022.