Details regarding the next-generation BMW 1 Series have emerged on the web revealing engine line-ups and a possible successor to the E30 BMW M3.
By Gareth Dean
According to the report, the 2011 BMW 1 Series will retain the four current model configurations (2- and four-door hatchback, coupe, and convertible) and could see the inclusion of other body shapes, such as a three-door shooting brake.
Renderings by Giom Mouton suggest an evolutionary approach to the new car’s styling, retaining the strong waistline and signature kidney grilles whilst aligning details such as lights and metalwork with such models as the X6.
The petrol powerplant line-up reveals a 101 kW 116i, a 137 kW 118i, 163 kW for the 120i and a 203 kW 130i. Diesels on the cards include a 118d with 112 kW, a 120d developing 137 kW, and a 123d with 157 kW on tap. These engines will be mated with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission will also be offered.
BMW has reportedly toyed with the idea of adopting a front-wheel drive set-up, allowing the new car to share componentry with Mini, but its likely that a company renowned for its affinity for rear-wheel drive will stick to its guns with the next 1 Series.
Test mules spotted recently in Germany reveal that the new car will feature a longer wheelbase and wider track in a bid to make the next 1 Series a sportier offering than the current car. This has lead to some speculation that the new 1 Series could spawn a high-performance model, possibly as a spiritual successor to the 2002 tii model from the 1960s and ‘70s or E30 M3.
This model would most likely feature the coupe body shell, and would play host to a twin-turbo 2,2-litre engine developing 225 kW. A number of cues are likely to be taken from the 2007 BMW 1 Series Concept tii such as the use of lightweight materials and aerodynamic aids.
The next-generation 1 Series range will also feature the company’s EfficientDynamics technology, including start/stop systems for automatic models, on-demand oil and water pumps, and mechanicals hewn from lightweight materials. Other fuel-saving measures such as an electric range extender and plug-in hybrid are also likely to appear later in the new 1 Series’ lifecycle.
