BMW X1 first look

The wraps are finally off the German carmaker’s latest on-road and off-road weapon.

The X1 is due to arrive here around February with prices starting at $55,000.

The newcomer will share much with its larger siblings, including BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology and borrows its platform architecture from the 3-Series.

However, BMW is expected to offer both all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive versions to help expand the brand's crossover appeal.

BMW's ‘efficient dynamics' technology will also feature in the vehicle, including brake energy regeneration, auto start-stop and a gearshift point indicator.

The X1 will be offered in Europe with a choice of one six-cylinder petrol engine and three four-cylinder diesels.

The European range will kick off with the 105kW/320Nm 2.0-litre sDrive18d turbo-diesel with rear-wheel drive.

Three all-wheel drive models will be available: the 130kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbo-diesel xDrive20d; the 150kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo-diesel xDrive23d; and the range topping xDrive28i with a 3.0-litre petrol six cylinder developing 190kW/310Nm.

The sDrive18d has an average fuel economy figure of 5.2 litres/100km and a CO2 rating of just 136gkm.

The xDrive28i hits 100km/h in 6.8 seconds and has a top speed of 205km/h.

Visually, the X1 retains typical BMW X features, with a three-eye-look and elevated foglights.

The kidney grille is upright, the short bonnet is deeply sculpted and the tail lights are a reinterpretation of the typical BMW L-shape.

The wheel arches are squared and the rear window is steeply raked.

BMW's trademark Hofmeister kick is also evident at the base of the C-pillar.

Inside the cabin is generously appointed.

The rear seatbacks can be folded in a 40/20/40 splits and the rear seat backrest can be reclined. Luggage capacity can be increased from 420 litres to 1350 litres.

The X1 measures 4450mm in length and sits on a wheelbase of 2760mm. It is just 19mm shorter than an X3 and has a 45mm shorter wheelbase.

The wagon will be built at BMW’s Leipzig plant in Germany.