Rendered Speculation: BMW X2 is X1's sporty sibling

We're less than a month away from the official unveiling of the BMW X1 concept in Paris, but the boys from Bavaria are already planning a sportier, two-door version of their new compact 'ute. Dubbed the X2, this coupe-ish soft-roader will be to the X1 what the X6 is to the X5.

The 1-series-based X1 is currently carrying the codename "Sports Activity Wagon" (SAW), whereas the X2 is known internally as a "Sports Activity Runabout" (SAR). In keeping with BMW's new nomenclature and styling, the X2 will sport different bodywork, up-market materials, more standard equipment and a wider track to differentiate the two-door CUV from its four-door counterpart. Powertrains fitted with BMW's Efficient Dynamics system will be part of the package, beginning with 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines, eventually evolving into mild- and plug-in hybrid drivetrains.

While the X1 has already been green-lit for production, the X2 is still in limbo. But if it does come to market, expect the X2 to bow sometime in 2011 after the X1 launches in 2010.