10 new crossovers worth waiting for

Crossovers are proliferating like mosquitoes on a Louisiana marsh, with a multitude due or due for a refresh. Note: This list is not all-inclusive. We had to pick the ones that we think are cool or will be important in a ballooning market that's also grown more sensitive to both price and fuel economy. And we tossed in a few that may or may not be sold here but show where crossovers may be headed.

2013 BMW X1

When: late 2012

It's the least expensive 2013 BMW, period (but barely). The X1 is already out in other markets, and it's been a hit. No wonder: It's basically a shrunk-down X3 at a roughly $5,000 discount. Think 128i sedan with a hatch and more ground clearance and you've got the picture.

And guess what: It's really a BMW, complete with rear-wheel drive in the base model. Practically anything else for sale here that you could reasonably call a "crossover" defaults to front-wheel drive, which is far less sporty.

The RWD model gets BMW's workhorse 2.0-liter turbocharged four, here good for 241 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. You can get the 2-liter mated to AWD too. The optional motor (AWD only) is BMW's creamy-smooth inline six 3.0-liter, good for 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. With either engine, the transmission is an eight-speed auto.

Price: starts at $31,500