BMW 1 Series enters its fourth generation in its 20-year lucrative success story from European and Japanese markets. The compact segment does have a good success ratio in the German domestic market. However, in India, due to its lackluster sales performance, BMW discontinued the 1 Series hatchback in 2017, and it's highly unlikely that this generation will make it to India. The BMW 1 Series is expected to make its global debut in October 2024.
The BMW 1 Series has a subtle design with a sleek front fascia—do not shout like the latest generations of BMWs with its bold grille. It has updated adaptive LED headlights with new DRL patterns, a new bumper design, new alloy wheels, and a refreshed tail section with an updated tail lamp design.
In terms of dimensions, the new BMW 1 Series's length has increased by 42 millimetres to 4,361 millimetres, while the wheelbase is 2,670 millimetres. The vehicle width is 1,800 millimetres, while the height has increased by 25 millimetres to 1,459 millimetres.
On the inside, the BMW 1 Series gets some significant updates. It now features a curved display layout wherein it houses a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment unit. We expect the 2 Series, based on the same platform as the 1 Series, shall incorporate changes in the coming times.The air vents and dashboard layout in the new BMW 1 Series have been thoroughly revamped,along with leather-free materials on the interiors. Sport seats in the Econeer version with covers and upholstery made from recycled polyester and M sport seats are optionally available. Perforated seat surfaces with leather-like properties are also available in the Veganza version. The Veganza/Alcantara equipment is part of the M Sport Package and standard equipment in the BMW M135 xDrive.
BMW 1 Series comes with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, which is standard across all engine options. The hatchback has been front-wheel drive for some time, departing from its predecessors' rear-wheel drive configuration. It has a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder turbo unit produces 166 bhp of power and 280Nm of torque, capable of going 0 to 100kmph in 7.8 seconds. Then, there is a 2.0-litre turbo diesel mill that comes in two options - 118d and 120d. The 118d generates 146bhp of power and 360Nm of torque, whereas the 120d produces 159bhp of power and 400Nm of torque. There is a sporty M135 xDrive variant, which gets a 2.0-litre turbo petrol unit producing 296bhp of power and 400Nm of torque, capable of going 0-100kmph in 4.9 seconds and gets a top speed of 250kmph.
Understanding the Indian market's hesitation towards purchasing a luxury hatchback, it's unlikely that the German brand will launch the 1 Series in India. However, the rear-wheel drive version has indeed been cherished by many driving enthusiasts.