The 2017 BMW X2 will be previewed as a lightly veiled concept car at the Paris motor show in late September prior to a start to sales during the latter half of next year, according to officials from the German carmaker.

Sister model to the recently introduced second-generation X1, the X2 will become the sixth SUV model to join the BMW line-up and the second to be based on its highly versatile UKL platform – the same structure that underpins the upcoming second-generation Mini Countryman, which is also planned to get its first public airing at the Paris motor show.

The X2 has been conceived as a sporting alternative to the X1 in much the same way the X4 provides a more dynamic take on the X3 and the X6 acts as a more performance-orientated option to the X5. BMW marketing insiders say the X2 is intended to appeal to buyers who may have traditionally opted for a sporting hatchback, yet seek the added security of the high-seating position offered by an SUV.

Prototypes seen testing revealed that the production version of the X2 has a front end dominated by the typical large kidney-shaped grille and heavily profiled bonnet – a look largely shared with the X1.

Further back, the new BMW boasts a more heavily raked windscreen and significantly lower roofline than its mechanically identical sibling, giving it a more sporting profile. The flanks are characterized by shapely front fenders and a prominent swage line running from the edge of the headlamps all the way through to the forward point of the tail lamps, while the rear features a hatchback-style tailgate that features a separate opening rear window for ease of loading in tight space. 

Inside, the X2 shares its dashboard and cabin appointments with the second-generation X1. Despite similar dimensions, the new X2 will not offer quite the same accommodation or luggage capacity, because of its lower roofline and more heavily angled tailgate. As with the X1, the new X2 will offer a range of transversely mounted four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines in varying states of tune paired to a choice of a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.