BMW X1 PHEV now on DOE's list of plug-in hybrids

BMW PH may only launch one variant of the X1 PHEV

It was around three years ago when BMW Philippines SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp. launched the all-new X1. Now on its third-generation, the crossover initially launched in the country with a 2.0L TwinPower turbo-diesel engine. Then in 2024, BMW launched the electric version called iX1, alongside the iX2.

Earlier this year, the brand officially confirmed that the BMW X1 will soon be available as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). With that, customers who want to get a brand-new X1 can get it with internal combustion (ICE), electric (EV), or as a PHEV.

BMW Philippines has yet to announce when it will launch the all-new X1 PHEV. But based on the Department of Energy's (DOE) updated listing, we now know what particular variant of the PHEV we can expect.

The DOE has officially recognized the BMW X1 PHEV, and the automaker will likely offer it in just one variant: the xDrive25e. Based on the initial specifications, the X1 xDrive25e will have an electric motor that puts out 80 kW or 109 PS and will be powered by a 16.3 kWh battery pack. The X1 PHEV is also listed to have a maximum output of 180 kW or 244 PS, which appears to be the combined output from both the engine and plug-in hybrid system.

Based on what other markets get, the X1 xDrive25e has a 1.5L (1499cc) TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder that makes 136 PS with 230 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the electric motor produces 109 PS with 247 Nm of torque and is helped by a 16.3 kWh lithium-ion battery. It also benefits from AWD and is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Size-wise, the X1 PHEV will measure 4500mm long, 1845mm wide, and 1630mm tall.

With the DOE already recognizing the BMW X1 xDrive25e as a PHEV for the Philippine market, we won't be surprised if the automaker holds its official launch soon. We're curious as to how much BMW prices what could be its most affordable plug-in hybrid.