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BMW takes the Active Tourer Outdoor outdoors this weekend

This weekend BMW will be taking its BMW Concept Active Tourer Outdoor to the annual OutDoor fair in Friedrichshafen, Germany. We first saw the concept last September, noting that it was a departure for BMW in more ways than one -- with the German automaker stretching itself into segments in which it previously had no foothold. The BMW Active Tourer is meant to preview a whole new generation of small cars from BMW, but one of the biggest changes underneath is a transverse layout of the engine -- a setup that BMW has traditionally shunned in favor of a longitudinal layout.

Fiat Panda 4x4

Fiat has unveiled a new 4x4 version of the third-generation Panda, which is set to make its world debut at the 2012 Paris motor next month. The 4x4 line of the Panda has a long history and in its previous itterations became known as one of the most versatile, robust but also likeable cars on the road. The default mode of transport for Southern European hill farmers, the Panda 4x4 has also developed something of a cult following in trendier Alpine resorts thanks to its functional-tough body clad aesthetic and handy small size.

Nissan Townpod concept

Nissan showed off a fresh take on the urban vehicle with the Townpod concept in Paris. Part coupe, part commercial vehicle – according to a Nissan spokesperson we spoke to at the show – the Townpod concept features a clear product aesthetic and the inherent practicality of a van, without resorting to outright utilitarianism. Read our opinions of the Nissan Townpod concept in our 2010 Paris Motor Show Highlights, and see more images of the concept in the gallery below.