BMW X1

As much as I love BMW cars, I never liked the first generation X1 which was introduced back in 2009. It was an awkward compromise between a rugged estate (think Audi's Allroad models or VW's Alltrack models) and a small SUV (its bigger brother, the X3). I'm sure the 730,000 worldwide customers would beg to differ, but I don't doubt that there are people of my opinion too.

However here we are 6 years down the line and BMW has announced its second attempt. The second-generation X1. And I can safely say it looks a lot better. It has ditched the estate look for a more mature SUV physique.

We'll be seeing 4 powertrains, all of which are 4-cylinder 2.0-litre units with almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution. All models manage 0-62 mph in less than 10 seconds and exceed 127 mph which is quick enough for most of us.

The first of which is the only petrol, the xDrive20i. That produces 192 bhp and 280 Nm. Emitting 146 g/km, it's the most harmful to the environment. That can be said for fuel economy too, at a dismal 44.8 mpg (remember that's the claimed figure, and you can often expect some 10 mpg less!).

The least powerful diesel is the 150 bhp 330 Nm sDrive18d. It's the most efficient, thanks to its two-wheel-drive layout, achieving claimed figures of 65.7 mpg and 114 g/km.

Next is the xDrive20d, producing 190 bhp and 400 Nm. BMW's claimed figures are 57.6 mpg and 128 g/km.

Finally is the xDrive25d. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel unit is tuned to produce 231 bhp and 450 Nm. It's the quickest to 62 mph (6.6 seconds) but for that you have to compromise running costs. Fifty-six-point-five mpg and 132 g/km make it the least efficient diesel in the lineup (it's still better than the xDrive20i).

All models apart from the lesser-powered 18d will come with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission as standard. The 18d comes with a 6-speed manual and the option to upgrade to the Steptronic.

If you're familiar with the BMW naming system, you'll know that xDrive represents all-wheel-drive and sDrive models are two-wheel-drive only. You'll probably also know that BMW is famous for its rear-wheel-drive cars (when not specified with xDrive, obviously). Well that's changing. To decrease weight (thus improving fuel efficiency) BMW is opting for a front-wheel-drive layout in many of its cars, as seen with the 2 Series Active Tourer.

The new xLine trim is where you should put your money. That brings you out of cloth upholstery territory and into Dakota leather land. Among other things are aesthetic upgrades, LED headlights and heated front seats.

There are 2 trims above xLine - Sport Line and M Sport. These bring front sports seats and contrast stitching, with the latter adding 18-inch M alloys and other M bodystyling.

It's nice to know that all models come with front fog lights, keyless engine ignition and automatic headlights and windscreen wipers. Oh, and of course, every new BMW will have a sat nav as standard. The infotainment system comprises of BMW's easy-to-use iDrive system on a 6.5-inch screen with 6 speakers, USB and aux connectivity.

Behind the standard automatic tailgate is a 505-litre boot which marks an 85-litre increase over the outgoing X1. Fold down the 40:20:40 split folding rear seats to uncover a loading bay measuring a total of 1,550 litres. You can specify 60:40 split folding rear seats instead, and even a passenger's seat back which folds down to allow you to carry very long items.

Some options include a 'Panorama' sunroof, a CD player, DAB radio and a Harman Kardon audio system upgrade with 12 speakers.

You can also specify the new X1 with M Sport suspension which is lowered by 10mm for a firmer ride. The standard Driving Experience Control allows you to choose from Comfort, Sport or Eco Pro. You get the idea by now.

The Optimum Shift Indicator and Start/Stop technology are put in place in order to try and get the very best out of every litre of fuel.

Along with all the normal safety acronyms are Forward Vehicle Collision Warning, City Collision Mitigation and Brake Preconditioning which are meant to help prevent an accident, or at least lessen the severity.

The 2nd generation X1 will be going on sale on the 24th of October this year. Hopefully this will dilute the population of hideous 1st gen X1s!