The next-generation BMW 1-Series runs on the same platform as its predecessor and drops the letter ‘i’ from the nomenclature to avoid confusion with EVs. The production is scheduled to begin in Leipzig in October.
The new generation is sized 4,361 x 1,800 x 1,459 mm (170.4 x 70.3 x 57 inches) with 2,670 mm (104.3 inches) of wheelbase. The trunk size varies from 300 to 1,200 liters (from 10.6 to 42.4 cubic feet, respectively). Like all other recent BMWs, it features two displays sized 10.25 and 10.7 inches large in the cabin, as well as an infotainment system running BMW 9 OS.
For the time being, buyers will be choosing from four petrol and diesel powertrain options. With all other transmissions gone out of production, the 7-speed Steptronic DCT remains the only option for all four.
Starting with the BMW 120, it uses a 1.5-liter turbo three-pot and a 48V electric starter-generator to deliver 170 PS (168 hp / 125 kW) and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque to the wheels. This model needs 7.8 seconds to get from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph).
The 118d churns out 150 PS (148 hp / 110 kW) and 360 Nm (266 lb-ft) of torque, while its senior cousin – the 120d – produces 163 PS (161 hp / 120 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Their respective sprint times aren’t impressive at 8.3 and 7.9 seconds, but it’s diesels we are talking about, after all.
The turbocharged M135 resides at the pinnacle of the lineup and is the only 1-Series to benefit from all-wheel drive. It commands 300 PS (296 hp / 221 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft), hits 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, and doesn’t reach its speed ceiling until 250 km/h (155 mph). For the time being, this M135 spec will be available exclusively in Europe, but other markets may receive a similar version dialed up to 315 PS (311 hp / 232 kW) later on.
Sales in EU countries will begin in late fall.
