BMW’s X1 has been selling well in several markets around the world, but until now has been unavailable to US buyers. The wait is over and today at the NYIAS BMW has officially launched the X1 to the US market.

BMW’s X1 is based upon the recently retired E90 3 series chassis, and it logically feels about the same size from within. Its raised ride height and rear hatch design add a level of practicality and utility previously unseen in the sub-compact market. In fact, BMW’s X1 establishes a new “premium sub-compact crossover” segment – and naturally leads it.

Dynamically one can expect similar levels of performance as found in the 3 series, but again, with more utility and a higher ride height. From the interior the X1 feels surprisingly upscale considering its modest price tag.

BMW has officially announced pricing: The entry level 2.0 turbo 4 cylinder X1 starts at $31,545 while the Xdrive35i will be priced at $39,345.