BMW has finally unveiled its first ever compact sports activity vehicle (SAV), which is the next derivative of its successful X range that has been popular with London car hire aficionados.

The first X luxury vehicle equipped with the auto start-stop function as part of EfficientDynamics technologies, the BMW X1 is a five-seat SAV that boasts looks and perfomance.

According to BMW, the model "takes its key styling cues and practicality from the X5 but shrinks it into a more compact and affordable package" and it boasts "elegant lines and command driving position".

Featuring a 1,995cc engine, the rear-wheel drive X1 sDrive18d SE can hit 62 mph in just 9.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 124 mph, while its sibling the X1 xDrive18d SE can post 10.1 seconds and 121 mph respectively.

A six-speed manual gearbox will be standard, although a sport automatic gearbox with finger tip gear change paddles located next to the steering wheel will also be available.

The BMW X range includes the X5, X3 and X6.

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