I don't understand why people are up in arms about this?
It will make BMW money which will allow them to invest in R&D for the models you want
BMW needs a competitor against its main rivals in that segment or they will lose market share and potential profits
If your wife wanted an MPV, would you rather have her drive a Nissan Livina or a BMW 1 GT?
It's not like the 3-Series is front wheel drive too? So why fuss? If you don't want an MPV, buy the RWD sedan..? It's not like BMW is forcing you into buying this
It looks good. Compared to whatever else is out there, like the Mercedes-Benz B Class, this looks great.