A few shots of the car leaked over the Internet yesterday, so today, BMW probably figured should let the car of the bag. Only the 5-door hatchback has been revealed so far, although we expect the 3-door, coupé and cabriolet versions to be back as well.
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| Second-generation BMW 1 Series will undoubtedly arrive in US and Canada as a 2013 model. Sport Line (left), Urban Line (right). (Photo: BMW) |
The second-generation 1 Series is longer and wider than the current version, which translates into more room inside, including much-needed legroom and trunk space. And despite rumours over the web in the last few months, the car remains rear-wheel drive (hooray).
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| Second-generation BMW 1 Series Hatchback (Photo: BMW) |
In Europe, the 1 Series will offer five powertrains, all turbocharged. A 1.6-litre gasoline inline-4 equips the 116i and 118i, producing 134 hp and 168 hp, while a 2.0-litre diesel four produces between 114 and 181 hp in 116d, 118d and 120d models. The European 1 Series will also be available with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an automatic Start/Stop system.
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| Second-generation BMW 1 Series Hatchback (Photo: BMW) |
The redesigned 1 Series should go on sale across the ocean in September. Since the US and Canada are already selling the 2012 model, don’t expect the new car before next spring at the earliest, tagged as a 2013.
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| Second-generation BMW 1 Series Hatchback (Photo: BMW) |
