The all-new BMW 1-Series has just been revealed as the first 1-Series to be front-wheel drive in 15 years.
The German car manufacturer has overhauled the exterior and interior designs of the new 1-Series for its third generation and it shares a striking resemblance to the larger BMW X2. Up front, there is an enlarged kidney grille and a pair of sharp headlights placed diagonally on the fascia. The rear incorporates a set of sleek LED taillights and in range-topping M135i guise (pictured in blue), includes a subtle diffuser and twin tailpipes.
BMW says that the new design and shape of the 1-Series has allowed it to significantly boost interior space. Rear passengers now enjoy an extra 19 mm of headroom, 33 mm of additional legroom, and 13 mm of elbowroom. Additionally, the new car features 380 liters of cargo space, 20 liters more than the outgoing model. Rear cargo space increases to 1200 liters with the rear bench seat folded down.
The new 1-Series will be available with an electric panoramic roof for the very first time and has also fitted a number of useful cubby spaces, including an area in front of the gearshift lever which can be specified with a wireless charging option. The latest BMW Operating System 7.0 is featured in the 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The car also features a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. A 9.2-inch BMW Head-Up Display is an optional extra.
In terms of engines, European customers will have three diesel engines and two petrol variants to choose from at launch. Sitting at the base of the diesel range is the 116d with a total of 116 hp. Other diesel models include the 118d and the 120d xDrive while on the petrol front there is the BMW 118i and the range-topping M135i xDrive. This latter model is powered by a potent six-cylinder engine with 302 hp and thanks to its combination of all-wheel drive and launch control, it can reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in a brisk 4.8 seconds.
Driving enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the 116d, 118d, and 118i all come as standard with a six-speed manual transmission. The 116d and 118i can also be outfitted with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox while the 118d and 120d xDrive have an optional eight-speed Steptronic transmission. The M135i will be sold exclusively with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport ‘box.
A host of safety systems come standard or are available as options across the new 1-Series family. This includes collision and pedestrian warning with city braking function, a lane departure warning system with active lane return, Active Cruise Control, Lane Change Warning, rear collision warning, and crossing traffic warning. Additionally, there is an optional Park Distance Control, rear view camera, and Parking Assistant function.
European sales of the new BMW 1-Series will start in September with prices being announced at a later date.