2015 BMW X1 revealed

Second-generation X1 SUV becomes the latest BMW to go front-wheel drive.

BMW has revealed its new X1 entry-level premium SUV, which will replace the existing model later this year after the first generation's seven year stint on the market.

During its time on sale the X1 has racked up more than 730,000 sales worldwide, making it one of the most successful cars in its segment.

While the outgoing model shares its rear-drive underpinnings with the old E90 generation 3 Series, the new X1 rides on a platform derived from the front-drive 2 Series Active Tourer. 

This shift also sees the new model sit a significant 53mm taller than its predecessor, allowing for a loftier driving position and more interior volume while reducing weight by up to 135kg. 

Rear seat leg room has also grown by 37mm, while boot space has swollen by 85-litres to 505-litres. 

These changes have also given the new X1 proportions more akin to an SUV than a high-riding wagon like the current model. 

In terms of exterior styling the X1 offers few surprises, essentially looking like a scaled-down X3 or X5. 

However, the baby of the X-family has a less aggressive nose with a pair of big kidney grilles and a slightly different headlight design. 

At the rear the X1 features a tall tailgate with lights similar to the facelifted 1 Series hatch range.

The X1 has racked up more than 730,000 sales worldwide, making it one of the most successful cars in its segment.

While the exterior styling is somewhat derivative of other X models, the interior design seems closer to the 2 Series Active Tourer. 

The steering wheel and upper dash board are all very similar to the MPV, though the center console is new. 

Beneath the metal the X1 will be offered with a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel four cylinder engines with sDrive front-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive available. 

International petrol powerplants include a 2.0-litre turbo four tuned to either 141kW/280Nm in sDrive20i models or 170kW/350Nm in the xDrive25i. 

Diesels include a 110kW/330Nm unit in the sDrive18d, 140kW/400Nm in the xDrive20d and 170kW/450Nm in the xDrive25d. 

In overseas markets buyers will have the choice of either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic – it’s expected we’ll only see the auto in Australia. 

Features available on the new X1 include a head-up display, active cruise control with auto brake function, lane departure warning and auto emergency brake (AEB).

The new BMW X1 range is expected to go on sale in Australia towards the end of this year priced from around $47,000.