Spied - Front wheel drive 2016 BMW X1 caught on test

The successor to BMWs entry-level crossover, the X1, is reported to go on sale next year. The second generation X1 will ditch the rear wheel drive architecture (borrowed from the previous generation 3 Series) and will instead use the new front wheel drive UKL platform.

First seen on the new Mini, and then on the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, this platform will underpin a lot more BMW models in the future. Thanks to the compactness of this platform, the new X1 will be about 100 mm shorter in length compared to the current model.

The engines of the new X1 will be downsized in order to achieve better efficiency and reduced emissions. Only three- and four-cylinder engines will be offered on the crossover, a report said. While top-end models would use 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, the base variants would come powered by three-cylinder 1.5-liter engines.

Gearbox choices will include 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic transmissions. While the base models will be front wheel drive, top-end variants will get BMWs xDrive four-wheel drive system.

BMW would explore the possibility of seven seats on the new X1. The seven-seat X1 will appeal to family buyers who require the additional row of seats at the rear.

[Images from Auto Plus]