The Paris Motor Show is ongoing and what a chance to finally see the previews in metal, steel, and carbon fiber. BMW unveiled the X1 – the supposed entry-level SUV marketed as a crossover. While the one on show right now is slated as a concept, insider buzz says that what’s shown is more of a near-production version since the X1 is due to be out by next year. It is set to compete with the Ford Kuga and the Volkswagen Tiguan by 2010.

Compared to those crossovers, though, the X1 looks bigger (actual dimensions are 4.457 m length, 1.789 m width and 1.535 m height) and tougher. It rides quite high too, sitting on 18-inch wheels. It resembles a more outdoorsy look than a sporty people-mover look that many new crossover designs tend to have. It does really look like the younger brother of the X5 and X3.

Engine choices would include a 170 bhp 2.0L gasoline one for the xDrive20i model, a 177 bhp 2.0L common-rail diesel in the xDrive20d. Tamer xDrive18i and xDrive18d might also be in the works (18=1.8L). In time, BMW is lining up a power-punching 3.0L gas and diesel engines dishing out 272 bhp and 245 bhp, respectively.

Source: Autocar

BMW will strike at the crossover market with a double whammy – the BMW X1 and the MINI Crossman. BMW has confirmed that they will be using the 1-series platform for both vehicles and production will indeed commence with the X1 rolling out of the Leipzig plant and the MINI Crossman to be handled by Magna Steyr through an outsourced venture.

As far as the two are concerned the Crossman is nearing its production version while the X1 is still in the concept phase. What is quite notable in this is that, with the shared platforms, it is also indicated that the two might also share the same powertrain lineup. If details on the Crossman holds true, then that would mean that these will sport a 3.0L engine.

Platform and powertrain sharing partly annoys me to a minute extent since that would mean that you’ll practically be dealing with the same cars with two identities, one in a crisp suit and one in a baggy pants.