The new BMW 1 Series is built on the modular FAAR platform, which features a transversely mounted engine and front-wheel drive. This chassis is already familiar from the X1, X2, and MINI Countryman models, and it replaces the previous layout with a longitudinally mounted engine and rear-wheel drive.
The hatchback's dimensions have changed: the body has become 5 mm shorter (now 4319 mm), 34 mm wider (1799 mm), and 13 mm taller (1434 mm). The wheelbase, on the other hand, has decreased by 20 mm to 2670 mm.
Like other fresh models from the Bavarian brand, the 1 Series has acquired a signature kidney grille with two sections connected in the center, narrower optics that can be fully LED in higher trim levels. The side profile has also changed, and the signature Hofmeister kink looks somewhat different.
The new chassis has allowed for increased space in the cabin for second-row passengers, especially in the legroom and headroom areas. The trunk holds 380 liters, and with the rear seats folded, the volume grows to 1200 liters.
Standard equipment includes an 8.8-inch touchscreen for the multimedia system, but for an additional cost, a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a fully digital instrument cluster with the same diagonal display are available.
The most powerful version at launch will be the M135i xDrive. Under its hood is a two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 306 hp and 450 Nm of torque — this is the most powerful production four-cylinder engine in BMW's history.
The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The M135i xDrive accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds (4.7 seconds with the M Performance package), and the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
This model features an unusual traction control system borrowed from the BMW i3S electric car. The ARB system is located directly in the engine control unit, making the response to wheelspin noticeably faster than traditional traction control algorithms built into the dynamic stability control module.
For regular versions, the base engine remains a 1.5-liter turbo motor producing 140 hp, which works with a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Three diesel options are also offered: a three-cylinder 1.5-liter with 116 hp and two two-liter units with 150 and 191 hp.
Order books for the new 1 Series in Europe will open very soon, with first customer deliveries expected by September 2019.
