The BMW X1 is the Bavarian automaker's smallest crossover at the moment, but that doesn't mean it gets the dregs of the brand's available tech. In fact, the new model will arrive with the highly praised iDrive 8 infotainment system and will be offered with an M Performance-enhanced model. The current model was last refreshed in 2019, but the facelifted model has been undergoing development since at least June 2020. That process has apparently now come to an end, as a French BMW dealer has revealed a design sketch of the new model as a teaser for an exclusive premiere of the crossover that will happen next week on Monday, May 2.

It's quite likely that photos will be leaked from this event, so we'll soon know what to expect from the new X1 - from a design standpoint at the very least. If you'd rather wait for the official story to drop, we expect that the global reveal will follow shortly after this exclusive preview, followed sometime after by the debut of the electric alternative (called the BMW iX1).

Sadly, we recently learned that this combustion-free variant will not be making its way to our shores, and it seems unlikely that the plug-in hybrid model will be offered here either, so gas-powered models will be all we can choose from.

Engine options are yet to be confirmed, but the existing X1 is sold with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot that produces a respectable 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A new model typically comes with a performance boost, so we predict that these figures will jump slightly. After more than two years of development, we can't wait to finally see what the new baby crossover has to offer. All that remains to be seen is if it will be as practical and fun to drive as its predecessor. With slightly larger proportions and the promise of high-horsepower models, we're sure there's nothing to worry about.