2006 BMW 130i Preview

The other half of the 1-Series range currently consists of a pair of advanced common rail 2.0-litre inline-four turbodiesel

Until now, the 1-Series seemed somewhat out of place in the BMW lineup, not offering the company's famous silky-smooth inline-six engine. (Photo: BMW Canada)

engines. The first of the two is badged the 118d, which makes 122 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque - a respectable amount for such a small car. Ironically (for a BMW), the 120d is the most powerful 1-Series currently available, with a whopping 163 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. It's also the quickest of the lot, including the gasoline motors, taking just under eight seconds to reach 100 km/h.

Aside from the top-end 6-Series and 7-Series, the 1-Series seems to have been the odd member of the family, as BMW's famous, silky-smooth inline-sixes have not been available. While there are few complaints about the motors currently offered, many critics believe that the 1-Series' chassis can handle, and for that matter deserves, more power.

In previous news reports and rumours, it was reported that prior to its arrival in North America, the car would receive some sort of inline-six, perhaps the 163-horsepower unit

BMW went the whole nine yards, installing their latest and most powerful inline-six powerplant into the 1-Series. (Photo: BMW Canada)

found in the 320i, or the 192-horsepower unit from the 325i. Surprisingly, then, BMW went the whole nine yards, installing their latest and most powerful inline-six powerplant.

The new motor, dubbed the R6 (not to be confused with the M54 currently found in the 330i) was first seen in the 630ci Coupe, which made its debut in July last year. Considered one of the most advanced six-cylinder engines in the world, it makes use of BMW's fuel-saving, performance-enhancing Double Vanos and Valvetronic technology, as well as lightweight internal components cast of magnesium and other exotic alloys.