2016 BMW X1 First Front-Wheel BMW Car in U.S.

It's always a very exciting thing when an automaker comes up with something totally new for the brand, even if that innovation is something that some casual consumers would never notice. Take, for example, the 2016 BMW X1, a small crossover that boasts the first front-wheel drive system that BMW ever has developed for American consumers.

Plenty of people are interested in the X1 for reasons that have nothing to do with the drivetrain. Luxury crossovers are massively successful right now, and there certainly are plenty of consumers who at the moment are much more concerned with the vehicle's cargo space, safety features and technology than they are the location of torque. However, those that love the idea of front-wheel drive in a vehicle like this also get the added bonus of experiencing a completely different kind of ride in a BMW model.

Aside from the way the vehicle feels when it's driving, a front-wheel drivetrain is beneficial for a number of other reasons, not the least of which is the ability of engineers to increase both legroom and cargo space. Front-wheel drive systems mount things differently, which means the cabin gets to be a little more voluminous. No crossover owner has ever complained about that.

The drivetrain isn't the only thing that Baltimore areaBMW fans love about the car, but it certainly is an important development. To start, the X1 will offer only all-wheel drive, with the front-wheel drive model coming at a later date. We're not sure yet when that date will be, but we're very much looking forward to offering a new type of vehicle for BMW.

We know it won't be for everybody, but options are the name of the game for BMW dealerships. This just gives our customers one more good one should front-wheel drive be what they desire.