BMW reveals all-new baby SUV

This is BMW's junior SUV, the X1. It's based on the 3 Series and if you're thinking it looks remarkably like the X3, you're right - it's only fractionally smaller. However, the X3 is getting on a bit and when it's replaced BMW will make it bigger and move it upmarket, clearly separating the two.

But BMW thinks of the X1 as more of a crossover than a proper 4x4 and as such it is available in both four- and two-wheel drive guises - making this the world's first rear-wheel drive mini SUV.

A range of petrol and diesel engines will be available, but at first the UK will only get diesels, named 18d, 20d and 23d. The first of those is the only available with both rear- and four-wheel drive options, while the remaining pair will be 4x4 only. Prices will start at just under £23,000 and rise to around £30,000 for an xDrive23d with a standard six-speed automatic gearbox. A six-speed manual is standard lower down the range. Power for the 18d is pegged at 141bhp, while the same 2.0-litre diesel unit is warmed over to produce 174bhp in 20d guise. The twin-turbocharged 23d gets 210bhp and 295lb.ft of pulling power.

All units are relatively economical and low on CO₂, however, in part thanks to a good dose of EfficientDynamics across the range - including low-rolling resistance tyres, aerodynamic tweaks and, for the manuals, start/stop technology. The sDrive18d emits just 136g/km and returns 54.3mpg, while the xDrive 23d returns 44.8mpg and 167g/km.

The X1 goes on sale in October 2009, though the 18d variants won't hit the UK until December.

Mark Nichol