BMW is expanding its X model line up with the addition of a compact SUV cum coupe in the shape of the new X2.

Next to its bigger brothers, the X4 and X6, BMW is targeting the ever growing premium SUV sector with its newcomer.

With an exterior design that combines the low-slung proportions of a coupe with the robust core of a BMW all-wheel-drive X model the X2 is two centimetres shorter and more than seven centimetres lower than the BMW X1, yet has the same wheelbase.

Featuring short overhangs, it also has a stretched, coupe-style roofline and slim window outline and has the BMW roundel on the rear side pillar - the first mainstream BMW model to do so.

The X2 also comes with a distinctive new BMW kidney grille which gives the new car a broader, more distinctive and sportier appearance.

It comes in SE, Sport, M Sport and M Sport X trims with prices starting at£33,980 and will be available to order from mid-November.

At launch, the X2 xDrive20d diesel variant will be available. It generates maximum output of 190bhp and 400Nm of torque enabling a zero to 62mph time of 7.7 seconds.

Official fuel consumption is an impressive 61.4mpg, while CO2 emissions are as low as 121g/km.

Further variants of the BMW X2 will be added to the Sports Activity Coupe's line-up in early 2018 - in the shape of the four-cylinder X2 sDrive20i, X2 sDrive18d and X2 xDrive18d.

The 20d diesel model comes equipped with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard. An integral hill descent control feature enables the BMW X2 to automatically maintain a desired speed on steep descents by taking care of brake control for the driver.

Standard specification for every BMW X2 includes a 6.5-inch display with navigation system, and there is the option of the full-colour BMW head-up display.

Other highlights include an optional Wi-Fi hotspot system and the telephony can be set up for wireless charging. Apple CarPlay is also fitted and enables easy, wireless in-car use of selected iPhone functions.