2009 Frankfurt Auto Show Preview: 2011 BMW X1

MUNICH, Germany — BMW has finally ended its striptease for the X1, releasing official images and details of the new compact crossover ahead of its formal launch in September at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. The BMW X1, however, won't make the Atlantic crossing until calendar year 2011.

Joining a rapidly expanding lineup of CUVs that includes the X3, X5 and X6, the new X1 goes on sale this fall in Europe. It will compete with such entries as the Volkswagen Tiguan and the upcoming Audi Q3. Another potential competitor is the upcoming 2011 BMW 335i GT hatchback.

The X1 will be offered in Europe in both rear-wheel-drive (sDrive) and all-wheel-drive (xDrive) configurations, with a choice of one gasoline and three diesel engines, as well as six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes. The most frugal diesel variant, fitted with auto stop-start, will deliver up to 45 mpg on the European test cycle, BMW says.

U.K. pricing already has been released, and British buyers can expect a range from $37,000-$40,750.

BMW has also released running footage of the X1 crossover, and you can watch it in the video below.

Inside Line says: When fuel prices go through the roof, look for the new X0.5. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent