Q. I am interested in BMW X1 but worried about the minimal ground clearance of just 165mm. Can this be heightened by changing the tyres? Or any other possibilities to increase the ground clearance upto 200mm?

We cannot increase the ground clearance by changing the wheels and the tyres. If ground clearance of 200 mm is of utmost importance, please look at the new BMW X3. The X3 has 211 mm ground clearance. Alternatively, please look at SUVs like Fortuner or Endeavor or Pajero or Isuzu. I have been driving the X1 for 2 years. So far ground clearance of 165mm was ok. Of course I do not risk with the offroading rides. I also take care to drive on roads which are reasonable as, any impact related repairs on BMW or Mercedes or Audi will be very expensive and never covered under warranty or insurance.

There is a diffrence in the loaded vehicle ground clearance and unloaded ground clearance.Pleaswe ensure you get both from the dealer. Next estimate how often you drive a fully loaded vehicle and then make up your mind.

I ha e the older one which is 185 mm. So escaped the issue.