BMW X1

BMW is adding another ‘X’ in its family SUVs box! Following in the tyre tracks of the X5, X3 and X6 comes the X1 – the baby of the range and the fourth X model in the firm’s portfolio.

These first official pictures reveal the newcomer is virtually identical to the concept, with conservative styling that looks strikingly similar to the X3. In fact, it’s only 10cm shorter.

For the first time on an X model, BMW is offering a choice of rear or four-wheel-drive variants, badged sDrive and xDrive respectively. The X1 also marks the SUV debut for the firm’s Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration technology – albeit only on manual cars. Other options include sat-nav, the iDrive cabin control system and a host of stowage compartments throughout the interior. There’s also a design package, bringing sports seats and upgraded trim.

The X1 is a strict five-seater, and prices start at £22,600 for the sDrive 18d. This is the most economical model, with its 143bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel promising 54.3mpg. xDrive versions with the same powerplant start at £23,940.

Topping the range will be the 23d. This 4WD-only car has a 204bhp 2.0-litre twin-turbo engine, and costs £29,055.

All cars come in SE trim, and there will be no petrol option in the UK at the launch in late October. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on all models except the xDrive23d. It gets a six-speed Sport automatic transmission with paddleshift changes.

Mazda MX-2 Revealed

This is Mazda’s version of a downsized, credit-crunch friendly MX-5, the MX-2.

Our illustration shows what the MX-2 is likely to look like. You can see that the Furai concept will have a strong influence in the design, while a hint of Ferrari California is also present in the headlamps.

Because the MX-2 is smaller than the MX-5 it will come equipped with smaller engines. Small capacity petrol engines ranging from 0.7 to 1.6-litres will get the MX-2 moving, while a range-topping 1.6-litre turbo pushing out an expected 160bhp. Combine that with low weight, and the MX-2 will embarrass more expensive machines with ease.

The Mini Speedster and Nissan Urge may be at design and concept stage now, but they’ll be keeping the dinky Mazda on its toes.

An insider has hinted that the MX-2 will be upon us as soon as 2012, so we can expect to see a concept reflecting the ‘downsized roadster’ very soon.