The smallest and most affordable crossover from BMW is now in its third generation. Ladies and gentlemen, this is the 2023 BMW X1.

Let's start off with its looks. While some might mistake this for a facelift, the 2023 X1 is brand new and all-new from top to bottom. It retains the proportions of its predecessor but gets a new set of LED headlights, along with bolder-looking kidney grilles. It also comes with new L-shaped accents on the front bumper complete with a faux skid plate in the center.

Like the front end, the rear bumper also gets the same L-shaped accents that accentuate the X1's sportier looks. Even the LED taillights come with the familiar L-shaped motif that gives the crossover an unmistakable look. 17-inch alloy wheels come as standard while 18-inch alloys are available on the X Line and M Sport versions. But if you really want bigger wheels, BMW says the X1 can come with a 20-inch set, a first for the crossover.

Hop inside the X1 and you are greeted by a vastly redesigned interior. First and foremost, it has a new “floating” center console that frees up cabin space. Not only does it house the push-start button and button-style gear selector, but it also has the audio controls, driving modes, electronic parking brake, and hazard button. In front of the new “floating” console is space for two cupholders, and a space to hold your phone.

Front and center on the dashboard are two digital displays. One serves as the instrument panel and measures 10.25-inches, while the other one is the touchscreen infotainment system that's 10.7-inches in size. Powered by the latest iDrive8 operating system, it comes with nifty features like Android Auto, wireless Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and even navigation.

Other available amenities inside the 2023 X1 include Sensatec and Vernasca leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory and massage function, 40:20:40 split rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, 4 USB-C charging ports, and two 12V power sockets.

The 2023 X1 is available in both gasoline and turbo-diesel flavors and benefits from a 48V mild-hybrid technology that boosts efficiency and power delivery. All engines are mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The first gasoline engine is the sDrive18i which has a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo that puts out 136 PS. Next is the xDrive23i which has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo that makes 218 PS. Over to the turbo-diesels, there's the xDrive23d that generates 211 PS and the sDrive18d that comes with 150 PS.

Like the previous generation X1, the all-new model comes with a wide variety of automated driving and parking aids. From features like cruise control with brake function, front-collision warning, and steering and lane control assist, the crossover comes packed with high-tech safety amenities.

With the 2023 BMW X1 set to go on sale later this year, we can expect the next-generation crossover to be available in the Philippines around next year. Perhaps the only question that remains is whether we'll get it with gasoline or diesel power under the hood.