The 2010 BMW X1 will compete in the premium compact SUV class. It's styling may be similar to the 2008 X3 shown here.

BMW fields its first baby SUV with a spinoff of its new 1-Series compact car. With smooth six-cylinder power, standard all-wheel drive and “ultimate driving machine” cachet, it could be the new star of a fast-growing market class.

What We Know About the 2010 BMW X1

Premium compact SUVs are popping up everywhere, so much so that Consumer Guide has put them into a class of their own, separate from lower-priced models at mainstream brands. BMW’s X3 helped plow this field a few years back. Acura has since weighed in with the RDX, the new Infiniti EX goes on sale shortly, and Lexus is said to be prepping a contender, likely based on parent Toyota’s RAV4. Also on deck are the Audi Q5, Cadillac BRX and Mercedes-Benz GLK, all expected to show in calendar 2009.

All this new competition poses a big challenge for the X3, which is one of the larger compact SUVs. Because of that, and in line with an announced expansion of its model line, BMW has confirmed a new X1 to slot below the X3 in size and price. The X1 name is provisional, by the way, but may well stick, as the new baby-Bimmer SUV will be based on the company’s 2009 1-Series compact car that starts sale in ‘08. Sources expect the X1 to reach U.S. dealers in the first half of 2010 as a 2011 model. Unlike the X3 and larger X5, the X1 will be sourced from Europe.

Though work on the 2010 BMW X1 is only just underway, we can safely assume a few particulars for the finished product. Styling, for example, will be in the X3/X5 mold, with big wheels for a relatively high stance, plus typical brand visuals from the “twin kidney” grille to geometric taillights. BMW’s all-wheel xDrive should be standard, along with the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that powers the upcoming 128i coupe. We wouldn’t look for the twin-turbo version of that engine for X1, but it’s a definite prospect for the redesigned X3 that’s also due in 2010. Transmissions should be BMW’s customary six-speed manual and optional six-speed automatic.

Dimensionally, the X1 will be visibly smaller than the X3, closer in size to the Acura RDX and Infiniti EX, though it’s likely to ride on a longer wheelbase than either. X1 will also be lighter than the X3, so it should be just as quick, if not quicker, and probably more agile too. Of course, it won’t be as roomy as its bigger brother, but it should be adequate for four adults and maybe a week’s worth of luggage.

Despite its lower pricing, the 2010 BMW X1 should come with all the standard features expected from this brand. That means antilock brakes, traction/antiskid system, hill-descent control, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags.

A Notable Feature of the 2010 BMW X1

All import brands are fighting to hold the price line against a weakening dollar, so BMW will be extra picky in deciding X1 standard content. On the other hand, most BMW buyers don’t skimp with options, so the baby SUV should list most of the major goodies available for the X3. These include the inevitable Sport Package with firm suspension and upsized wheels and tires; navigation system (bringing with it BMW’s irksome iDrive controller), rear-obstacle detection, rear side airbags, and amenities like leather upholstery, heated seats, high-end audio, and steering-linked headlamps. While none of these features are notable nowadays, especially for a premium brand, we wouldn’t be surprised if BMW came up with some gee-whiz exclusive for the X1, though we have no idea what that might be.

Buying Advice for the 2010 BMW X1

The 2010 BMW X1 could be the “driver’s choice” among bucks-up baby SUVs, much as the X5 is among premium midsizers. It should certainly be the equal of the Acura RDX, currently the sportiest drive among premium compact SUVs. Still, the competition won’t lack for appeal, judging by their recent track records, so you’d be wise to check them all before making a final decision.

2010 BMW X1 Release Date: It’s too early to set a firm date, but BMW says it will release the X1 in calendar 2010. We’d guess sales will start well before summer, perhaps in early spring.

First Test Drive: Assuming BMW can stick to its current timetable, media previews could be scheduled for late summer or early fall of 2009.

2010 BMW X1 Prices: With the dollar showing no sign of strengthening against the euro, the 2010 BMW X1 could be among the pricier class contenders, yet not so much as to encroach on the X3’s turf. We’d guess the starting price by the on-sale date will be around $35,000.

For more inside information on hundreds of new cars of today and tomorrow, check out:

• C­onsumer Guide New Car Reviews and Prices: Road test results, photos, specifications, and prices for hundreds of new cars, trucks, minivans, and SUVs from the Auto Editors of Consumer Guide.
• BMW: Read Consumer Guide's full reports, including ratings, prices, specifications, and fuel economy.
• Premium Compact SUV: The 2010 BMW X1 will compete in the premium compact SUV class. Here's Consumer Guide's roundup of all the premium compact SUVs on sale today.
• 2008 Consumer Guide Best Buy and Recommended Award Winners:
  Check out which cars won our Best Buy and Recommended awards for 2008.
• Future Cars: Step into the automotive showroom of tomorrow with reviews, analysis, pictures, prices, and preliminary specifications on scores of 2009, 2010, and 2011 new cars.