This is actually our second drive of the 2011 BMW X1, since we took a spin in an X1 prototype last spring. With all the camouflage off, Contributor Matt Davis is even more convinced that the X1 has some significant advantages over the current X3. It's smaller on the outside, but better packaging actually opens up more room for humans and cargo on the inside.

It also has a lower stance and a more aggressive suspension tune, so that none of the usual crossover compromises are apparent when you drive it with some enthusiasm. "In some instances," writes Matt, "this 3,660-pound X1 even improves upon the handling of the 1 Series coupe."

He drove an X1 with BMW's 2.0-liter turbodiesel four, and this wasn't an academic exercise, either, as BMW plans to bring this engine to the U.S. in 2012. We'll see the X1 a little sooner than that in the first quarter of 2011.

Is this BMW's most sensible crossover SUV to date? It makes more sense to us than the X6 and even the X3, and it's sure to be more efficient than any X5.

First Drive: 2011 BMW X1