We already saw sketches of the 2011 SsangYong XIV-1 Concept ahead of its debut this week at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, but here are the first live photos of the compact crossover as well as all the info.

The XIV-1 is a showcase for SsangYong’s design and engineering talents, with the main focus being on vehicle connectivity.

However, more than just a design study, the XIV-1 is a preview of SsangYong’s upcoming compact crossover designed for Europe and other markets where the South Korean brand’s vehicles are sold.

Key features of the design include a wraparound windscreen, large C-pillars, and a full length glass roof. The interior is also something special, featuring a new configurable seating design that offers 1+1+2 or 1+3 seating layouts.

No major drivetrain specs were revealed, apart from the XIV-1 coming with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine driving either the front wheels or all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.

The name XIV-1 is derived from the phrase ‘eXciting user Interface Vehicle’, with many of its controls activated via the interaction of smartphones and the vehicle itself. Using the kind of devices that the driver and passengers are likely to be carrying at all times, they can control everything from the audio system, the display of information on the dashboard and online communications.

Enjoy our live photos gallery and then click here to see what else the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show has to offer.