BMW plans to build a small X range, below the X1, and based on the 2-Series Active Tourer.

BMW Group plans a small crossover to rival Audi’s forthcoming Q1, a German magazine reported.

According to auto motor und sport, the model, currently dubbed Urban Cross, will be based on the platform underpinning the 2-series Active Tourer minivan and will use front-wheel-drive technology from the group’s Mini brand.

A BMW spokesman told Automotive News Europe that the report was “pure speculation,” and the group would not comment on speculation.

BMW’s smallest crossover will sit below the X1, but its design would differ from that found on the automaker's current X lineup, the magazine said. The entry-level model will have a coupe-like shape and its cool and aggressive styling will help attract customers, the report added, citing company sources.

The roughly 4000mm long SUV is expected to have about 330 liters of luggage space, the same as the Mini Paceman, auto motor und sport said.

Pricing will likely begin about 25,000 euros in Germany when sales begin in 2017, the report said.

Audi has said it will begin building the Q1 at its factory in Ingolstadt, Germany, next year.

REPORT HERE

GERMAN MAGAZINE REPORT HERE