Having recently unveiled its hot new 1 Series M Coupé, BMW has now confirmed a clutch of updates to the rest of the 1 Series Coupé and Convertible lines.
The most noticeable changes take place at either end of the car, with revisions to the headlamps and the L-shaped elements in the brake light clusters.
The front spoiler has also undergone some changes to incorporate BMW’s Air Curtain technology – a set-up that optimises air-flow over the front wheels to minimize aerodynamic resistance.
A pair of new colours will be offered on both hard- and soft-top models – Vermillon Red and Marrakesh Brown — and the wheel range will include five-spoke 17-inchers and 18-inchers in a V-spoked ‘turbine’ design.
Many of the interior fittings are carried over from the present models, although a gloss white interior trim package will now be offered and the front seats receive active head restraints to improve safety in a rear collision scenario. Other notable changes will include upgrades to the 1 Series’ iDrive system to accommodate updated audio and Bluetooth functionality. Like the system in the recently-launched X3, it allows the driver to receive emails and text messages via their Blackberry smartphones.
The main change to the engine line-up will be the introduction of the twin-scroll turbocharged N55 straight-six petrol engine. This well-known unit develops 225 kW, while its 400 N.m of maximum torque is available between 1 500-5 000 r/min. A six-speed automatic manual transmission is earmarked for standard fitment with this unit, while a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic will be offered as an option.
The updated models will make their official debuts at the upcoming Detroit Motor Show. As these models are not considered volume models in the 1 Series line-up, the updates have been modest. Expect the three- and five-door hatches to receive a more substantial revamp.
