What?
Here's BMW's newest 'Sports Activity Vehicle'. It looks like an X3 replacement, but is significantly smaller. The production version will provide the entry point to BMW's X-range of models. Compared with some of BMW's recent offerings the styling is fairly uncontroversial. Technical information has not been released but a range of petrol and diesel engines from the 1 and 3 Series line-ups is likely, along with a part-time four-wheel drive system.
When?
Expect to see the production version soon, probably at next year's
Geneva motor show. We should get a first drive before summer 2009 with the X1 going on sale across Europe by the end of next year.
Verdict?
It is a logical move on BMW's part to add the X1 to its range although it is likely to steal sales from the X3. Generally we like BMW's current line-up although we've been critical of the ride quality of some models on low-profile tyres so we'll reserve judgement until we've driven the production X1.
John Lambert - 8 Oct 2008