Paris - BMW has previewed the new X1 at the Paris Motor Show with a concept combining the needs of everyday traffic with all round functionality and a modern active lifestyle.

Although still described as a "concept", BMW is planning to launch sales in mid-2009 as a smaller version of the X3, measuring 11 cm shorter at 4.46 metres in length.

The concept comes with dual round headlights cut off at the top in the typical style of the BMW brand, complete with a white horizontal cover on the top edge. The position of the headlights and fog lamps brings back the three-eye face of other BMW X models.

Black body surrounds made of a special, robust synthetic material highlight the clear orientation towards the wheels. The sturdy, silver-coloured roof railing extends far to the rear, determining the course of the roofline together with the rear spoiler.

The engines will come from the BMW 1 and 3 Series in the range 100 kW/136 hp to 200 kW/272 hp, according to a BMW spokesman. BMW's fuel saving "efficient dynamics" programme will be included in the XI, significantly reducing fuel consumption.

"The XI will be smaller, lighter and more economical than current X models," the BMW spokesman said without giving details. It would however bring consumption in the range of about 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres of the current X3 2.0d diesel model. (dpa)