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.