BMW X1 spied up-close

The second-generation BMW X1 has been spied testing in a more production ready form by our source. BMW might unveil the compact crossover at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show and it is rumoured to offer seating for seven. 

The X1 seems to carry the frontal design theme of most modern BMWs with the headlights joining the kidney grille. The kidney grille now looks much larger and has curved lines on it. The overall design seems to be a bit more muscular than the outgoing model and it looks a tad larger too.  

Earlier spy shots of the interior have indicated similarity to the 2 Series Active Tourer with similar  instrument panel and upper dashboard design. Even the instrument cluster and the overall layout of the cabin in typical BMW fashion looks quite similar to its siblings.

Exterior and interior changes apart, the new X1 will be a front-wheel drive and will be built on the UKL1 architecture than underpins the 2 Series Active Tourer and the Mini hatchbacks. It will also get a new three-pot 1.5-litre TwinPower mill and a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. There will be a choice of a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. 

If BMW unveils the new X1 at the Frankfurt Motor Show this year, then we expect BMW to unveil it at the 2016 Auto Expo and launch it thereafter. We might not get the 1.5-litre three-pot motor and it will be made available with an auto box only.