With the recent launch of its all-new X1, German luxury carmaker BMW is targeting those in Korea who are looking for affordable, upscale, sport-utility vehicles.

The X1 is the carmaker’s best-selling compact SUV. Industry watchers said the arrival of the second generation of X1, which has an upgraded design and specifications, will heat up competition among German luxury carmakers in the compact SUV segment. 

The all-new BMW X1 is vastly different from its predecessor. In terms of exterior, the new car looks more like an SUV than the previous model. It bears greater resemblance to its SUV siblings including the X3 and X5.

BMW’s new compact SUV also boasts enhanced cabin space. In particular, passengers in the rear seat can enjoy more legroom than the first generation X1.

The new vehicle has also progressed in terms of driving performance. The 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine-loaded BMW X1 put out a modest 190 horsepower and its speed reaches up to 100 km in 7.6 seconds. The revamped X1 comes with eight-speed automatic transmission and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

“The company is confident the success of the new X1 in Korea, enticing young Korean car buyers who are look for luxury, utility and reasonable all-wheel-drive capability,” a BMW Korea official said.

By Seo Jee-yeon (jyseo@heraldcorp.com)