With the new generation of 1-Series now available, BMW needs to sell wrap up produciton of the old ones and sell whatever they got left. Introducing new spiced-up editions is a way to speed things up.

So please welcome the new Edition Exclusive and Edition Sport versions of the BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible.

The Exclusive treatment for the coupe and convertible adds visual tweaks including window cavity covers and side frame strips in Chrome Line or the optional BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line, light alloy wheels available in 16, 17 and 18-inch format (depending on engine type), and exclusive body finish including the Mineral Grey metallic, as well as exhaust covers and longitudinal kidney grille bars in chrome.

Interior upgrades include upholstery in pearl Grey with grey contrast stitching or in black with white contrast stitching, door sills with special lettering, interior strips in aluminium accentuation polish or in the optional fine wood finish Fineline Anthracite, an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner for the 1 Series Coupé and floor mats with welt in matching colour.

Meanwhile the Edition Sport introduces new M elements to the 1er, with M aerodynamic package, exclusive paint finish Carbon Black metallic as well as 17 and 18-inch M light alloy wheels in double spoke design. It comes with gloss black accents and chrome exhausts.

Inside you get M leather steering wheel (including multifunction), stainless steel pedals and the M footrest in aluminium, plus M gearshift lever and handbrake handle including gaiter.

BMW is starting out expanding the 1-Series family, apparently with a three-door hatchback variant.

Just like the first-gen 1er, there will be many body variants and editions for you to choose, six in total, including coupe, cabrio and even a new GT one. Each of them will offer something special, but the bad news is they will all be sporting that hideous face.

We hope by the time BMW gets round making a 1M version of the new 1-Series it’s been given a proper facelift.

As for this 3-door version, it is certainly more appealing to the younger buyers, as it makes the whole car loo more dynamic. To be fair the backseats in a 1-Series are not that spacious, so you can’t really use lack of practicality to diss this car. It is now just harder getting into the back where there were no space in the first place, that’s all!

via: Sohu

BMW 1M Coupe apparently has limited production numbers. So inevitably some people are going to miss out. Luckily Prior Design can give you the same look on a 1-Series.

Granted, the main reason to buy the 1M is the amazing performance of that twin-turbo straight-six and peppy handling of the car. But it also has a special look and it’s flattering to know you can have that with a less expensive car.

Prior’s PDM1 widebody kit flared rear fenders, new front fenders, new bonnet, front bumper, rear bumper and side skirts. The bumpers of course have the 1M elements of front spoiler and rear diffuser. A set of black concave wheels and lowered suspension have given this 1er a very cool look.

If you got this kit you are advised to also tune the engine so it won’t let you down if you came face to face with a real 1M!

AC Schnitzer’s package for the ugly but lovely BMW 1-Series F20 does make a difference in the car’s looks. But don’t expect a miracle.

I mean no matter what you do that face, it still looks like a hideous creature form a bad Sci-Fi movie. It looks a bit sportier with the body kit consisting of front spoiler, side skirts, and a roof spoiler. Tinted rear windows and custom graphics also contribute to this sportiness.

AC offers a wide range of wheels for this car in different designs and 18 and 19inch size. The sport suspension lowers the car by 25mm, making the wheels look cooler.

For the interior you get aluminum accents from AC’s Black Line for the gear knob, handbrake liver, i-Dirve knob and the pedals, plus special floor mats.

As for the performance, the tuner offers a boost for 118d and 120d diesel engines only. The first one gets a bump from 140 to 170 PS and the latter from 184  to 210.

Like most other car makers, BMW is relying on social media to make their cars more interesting in the eyes of the public. For the new 1er they hired a couple of media boys to run around making cool films of the car. This new webisode though is pretty darn boring as it just shows you a bunch of robots and bits of metal. Still, if you are into such things you might find it interesting.

Click here to view the embedded video.

After doing an awesome job with the 1M Coupe, AC Schnitzer turns its attention to the new 2012 BMW 1-Series F20.

AC’s engineers have just started working on the new 1er and came up with a nice visual upgrade kit for it. Other improvements including performance upgrades, exhaust systems, suspension solutions, aerodynamic components and accessories for the interior are still in the works and will be announced later.

So what do you get now? Well, for starters there are four different 18 to 19 inch wheels available to choose from, and you also get racing tailpipes, steel pedals, illuminated and shift-display gear knob, aluminium handbrake handle and iDrive cover.

AC Schnitzer 1-Series Wheels Range:

Type IV Wheels BiColor

Type IV Wheels Silver

front: 8,5J x 18″ with tyres 225/40 R 18
rear: 8,5J x 18″ with tyres 225/40 R 18

front: 8,5J x 19″ with tyres 225/40 R 19
rear: 8,5J x 19″ with tyres 225/40 R 19

Type VIII Wheels

front: 8,5J x 19″ with tyres 225/40 R 19
rear: 8,5J x 19″ with tyres 225/40 R 19

Type VIII Lightweight Forged Wheels

front: 8,5J x 19″ with tyres 225/40 R 19
rear: 8,5J x 19″ with tyres 225/40 R 19

At this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW will introduce a range of new M-design performance accessories for the new 1-Seires.

The options will be showcased on this concept car you see here, and include a BMW Performance aerodynamics package, a BMW Performance suspension and a new BMW Performance 18-inch brake system, 19-inch M alloy wheels and a sport steering wheel with carbon fiber and suede inside the cabin.

We quite like the aerodynamic body kit, which although doesn’t change the fact that the 1r is an uggo, but gives it a funky face. And we also like that stripe!

BMW also offers engine upgrade programs for the 1 Series and the 3 Series. These aftermarket products have been specially designed for a member of the latest generation of inline six-cylinder engines powering the BMW 135i Coupe, the BMW 135i Convertible, the BMW 335i Sedan, the BMW 335i Touring, the BMW 335i Coupe and the BMW 335i Convertible, offering 326 hp and 430 Nm of torque.

Adding a little drama to an otherwise mundane task, Fifth Gear has filmed their entire review of the 2012 BMW 1 Series with an iPhone. They say the rain messed up their professional filming equipments, but you know, that sounds like a load of bollocks. The result is good, though, after all iPhone can record 720p videos. If this idea catches on, it makes it easier for us car journos to come up with video reviews round the clock!

As for the car, well it still looks horrible to us. Technically, however, it’s a brilliant machine. Check out the review after the jump.

Looks like BMW is already working on a new visual and performance package to revamp the new 1-Series’ styling!

These pictures of the BMW 1-Series Performance Studie Concept, possibly Frankfurt-bound, are scooped at a private dealer meeting, and shows a cool bodykit that addresses some of the issues with the 1er’s odd looks.

New bumpers, side skirts, spoilers, grilles, and a cool racing stripes all over the car are the additions to the Performance Studie. Those stupidly big headlights are still intact though. The car also gets 19-inch wheels.

Not sure about any performance tweaks, but we probably see this car at the IAA in September. It is the base for the upcoming M Sport 1-Series.

via: 1addicts

The new BMW 1 Series go on sale in UK on 17 September 2011, starting at £19,375.

Not sure if the car’s looks will grow on you till then, but if it did, you can have the new 1er with a choice of three diesel and two petrol engines. The range includes 116i, 116d, 118i, 118d, and 120d. The top of the range model costs £24,720.All of them are of course rear-wheel-drive.

It’s not likely BMW offers the 1 Series with a V6 engine, like they did with the old one, but if they do it’ll cost well over 30 grand.

In terms of equipments and features, the base mode comes as standard with auto Start-Stop, six-speed manual transmission, 16-inch light alloy wheels, four airbags, DSC+, Drive Performance Control with ECO PRO, BMW Business radio with single CD player, air-conditioning, 60:40 folding rear seats, child seat ISOFIX attachments, Move cloth upholstery and leather steering wheel.

The 2012 BMW 1 Series is 83mm longer, 14mm wider and 30mm longer in the wheelbase than its predecessor. It’s also more efficient, and better built. In every aspect it’s a better car, except for the looks. My God it’s ugly!

Pricing and specs:

SE: Freestanding high-resolution 6.5 inch flatscreen monitor and iDrive controller, Bluetooth hands-free facility with USB audio interface and a multi-function leather steering wheel with speed limiting function.

BMW Sport: Sport style 17-inch star-spoke light-alloy wheels, Dark Chrome exhaust pipe and high-gloss black kidney grille, central air intake trim, side intake surrounds and rear bumper trim. Exclusive sport design sports seats, leather sports steering wheel, high-gloss black interior trim with Coral Red or grey accents.

BMW Urban: Urban style 17-inch V-spoke light alloy wheels, chrome kidney grille with white slat sides and trim bar for the central air intake, amongst a host of stylish design details. Inside, Metro cloth/leather seats, leather sports steering wheel and an acrylic glass interior trim in black or white with Oxide Silver accents.

Optional highlights
The new BMW 1 Series offers a comprehensive and unique (for a compact car) selection of optional driver assistance systems and mobility services. These include High-beam Assistant, Adaptive Headlights, Park Assist, Reversing Assist Camera, Lane Departure Warning including Collision Warning, cruise control with brake function, speed-limit and no-passing information. In addition, occupants can benefit from internet connectivity, smartphone and music player integration, real-time traffic information, as well as web radio, Facebook and Twitter apps.

]]> http://www.motorward.com/2011/07/2012-bmw-1-series-uk-pricing-announced/feed/ 0 http://www.motorward.com/2011/07/video-2012-bmw-1-series-instrumental/ http://www.motorward.com/2011/07/video-2012-bmw-1-series-instrumental/#comments Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:17:14 +0000 Arman Barari http://www.motorward.com/?p=24035

This is the latest promotional video for the 2012 BMW 1 Series. And it’s rubbish really, full of boring production line stuff. But the video is not important with this film, because the soundtrack is. BMW says the entire soundtrack you hear generated out of the noises of the new BMW 1 Series. It’s really impressive, if it’s true! Hit the jump and check it out.

Click here to view the embedded video.

BMW released the 1 Series and 3 Series Performance Edition in UK, celebrating London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games sponsorship.

The 1er Performance edition is available on the 116i, 116d and 118d three- and five-door models and comes with M aerodynamic bodystyling, dark chrome 18-inch M light alloy wheels, High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, dark chrome exhaust tailpipe and dark line rear lights on the outside.

Underneath it features M Sport Suspension, while sport seats with Royal Blue stitching, M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel and gearshift leaver, floor mats with Royal Blue piping complement the interior. Of course it also gets London 2012 exterior badges. Pricing starts at £19,530 OTR for a BMW 116i Performance Edition three-door.

The 3 Series sedan comes as 118i and 118d, and features M aerodynamic body kit, M sport multi-function leather steering wheel, sport seats, floor mats with blue piping, 18-inch light alloy wheel, chrome exhaust finisher and London 2012 exterior badges. Pricing for this one starts at £23,195 OTR for the BMW 318i.

Both cars can be ordered in each of these four colors: Alpine White, Titanium Silver, Bluewater and Black Sapphire.

If you have been tracking what people are saying about the new BMW 1 Series on the web, most of them unanimously believe it looks like the fat pigs in ‘Angry Birds’ game! They’re right, it does. Mercedes must now be quite happy, and proud that they did a far superior job designing the new generation A Class. Looks aside though, the new 1er is a well-engineered car and probably the best handling car in this segment. But my God it’s ugly.

I don’t think we will ever be able to digest the looks of the new BMW 1 Series, and the M sport kit by the looks of things doesn’t help either.

These are teh first pictures of the M sport kit for the new 1 Series and as it’s the case with M kits it includes revised bumpers with bigger air intake at front, sporty grilles, new fog lamps and alloy wheels. Inside the cabin you find items like sport upholstery, steering wheels, aluminum pedals and accents. And the whole car is littered with ///M badges.

We really hope some of BMW’s officials try and explain the philosophy behind the design of the new 1er, because we don’t see why you would such a thing! Maybe we’re missing a point here.

via: WCF

While we’re still waiting for the design of the new BMW 1 Series to grow on us, the Bavarian company released its pricing details for the British market.

Ugly it might be, but the new 1er is a fantastic little car in terms of engineering. The car can be had with a lineup of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, including the four-cylinder TwinPower turbocharged unit that makes a pretty decent 136h and returns 49.6mpg, with CO2emissions of just 132g/km. Real eco-minded drivers should go for the BMW 116d EfficientDynamic that has CO2 emissions of 99 g/km.

Other choices include 118i with a maximum output of 170hp,120d which has one of the best diesel engines around with 184hp, and the 118d with a maximum output of 143hp. The new BMW 1 Series is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Just like old gen, the rear-drive layout of the 1er gives it great handling and that special BMW feel we all love.

*On standard 16-inch wheels

Equipments and features:

The standard specification consists of a satin silver interior trim and Move cloth seats, with further interior trims and accent panels optional, as are Dakota leather seats or sports seats. Three standard and five metallic exterior paint colours are available from launch.  Other additions to the standard specification of the new BMW 1 Series include a leather steering wheel, chrome exhaust and keyless start.

SE specification adds a freestanding high-resolution 6.5 inch flatscreen monitor, with operation via an iDrive controller, Bluetooth hands-free facility with USB audio interface and a multi-function leather steering wheel with speed limiting function.

Complementing the typical BMW range structure, two exclusive new model specifications have been introduced to allow customers to maximise the dynamic new design of the BMW 1 Series.

The BMW Sport model includes exclusive sport design sports seats, leather sports steering wheel, high-gloss black interior trim with Coral Red or grey accents and a host of other carefully selected design elements. External features include unique sport 17-inch star-spoke light-alloy wheels, Dark Chrome exhaust pipe and high-gloss black kidney grille, central air intake trim, side intake surrounds and rear bumper trim.

The BMW Urban model includes Metro cloth/leather seats, leather sports steering wheel and an acrylic glass interior trim in black or white with Oxide Silver accents. The exterior specification includes unique urban style 17-inch V-spoke alloy wheels and Chrome kidney grille with white slat sides and trim bar for the central air intake, amongst a host of stylish design details.

Yesterday we had the first images of all-new 1-Series BMW with its all-new face, and we have official details of the car along with a video that compares it to the old model.

What we want to know first about the new 1er is the new engine lineup: It comes with a new generation of 1.6-litre petrol engines: BMW 116i with 100 kW/136 hp, BMW 118i with 125 kW/170 hp. Radically redesigned 2.0-litre diesel engines: BMW 116d with 85 kW/116 hp, BMW 118d with 105 kW/143 hp, BMW 120d with 135 kW/184 hp. Also scheduled for launch soon is the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition, with a 85-kW/116-hp 1.6 litre diesel engine and additional fuel-saving technologies that will keep CO2 emissions over the EU testing cycle down to just 99 g/km.

video from quattroruote.it

The car has also grown in size. It is 85 millimetres longer, wheelbase 30 millimetres longer, front track 51 millimetres wider and rear track 72 millimetres wider than previous model; height remains unchanged, but 17 millimetres of increased width create a more spacious interior and a sportier look. 21 millimetres more rear legroom; luggage compartment expanded from 330 to 360 litres; luggage capacity expandable to a maximum of 1,200 litres with rear seats folded down (40/20/40 seats available optionally). Large number of storage compartments, shelves and cupholders in cockpit.

We’ve been looking at the pictures of the new 1 Series for a while trying to find a spot of beauty in its face, but we failed.

Unlike the rather irritating exterior, the interior is a very nice place to be in and features up to the minutes features, namely BMW ConnectedDrive: a comprehensive and (for a compact car) unique selection of optional driver assistance systems and mobility services. High-beam assistance, Adaptive Headlights, parking assistance, reversing camera, Lane Departure Warning including Collision Warning, cruise control with brake function, speed-limit and no-passing information, Internet connectivity, increased smartphone and music player integration, real-time traffic information, and web radio, Facebook and Twitter apps.

Here’s the complete details (press release) of the 2012 BMW 1 Series along with the pictures:

BMW’s entry-level model has achieved maturity, offering an even better balance between sportiness and driving comfort, improved functionality, and numerous driver assistance systems previously available only in higher segments. This is also apparent in its size. The body of the new BMW 1-Series is 85 millimetres longer than its predecessor, at 4,324 millimetres, while the wheelbase has widened by 30 millimetres to 2,690 millimetres. The car also looks more powerful because its overall width has increased by 17 millimetres to 1,765 millimetres (due to an increase in track of 51 millimetres at the front and 72 millimetres at the rear), whereas its height remains unchanged at 1,421 millimetres. The rear seats have 21 millimetres more legroom, and the luggage compartment has expanded by 30 litres to 360 litres.

The design of the new generation is a powerful expression of the latest technological advances. The model’s fresh, youthful image has been stylishly updated, with precision-moulded body surfaces and a modern, functional interior both underlining its premium status. Another innovation is the BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line, two ranges of interior and exterior design features and equipment that provide exclusive personalization opportunities.

The new BMW 1-Series is the first and only car in its class to be optionally available with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Like its predecessor, it also incorporates the extremely wide-ranging BMW EfficientDynamics technology package as standard. This includes the Automatic Start/Stop function, available with both the manual and automatic transmissions, and ECO PRO mode, activated using the driving experience switch (included as standard), for even better environmental performance. There are also plans to expand the range with the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition. This will have an output of 85 kW/116 hp, but additional fuel-saving and emission-reducing technologies will enable it to achieve fuel consumption of 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres and a CO2 emissions figure of just 99 grams per kilometre over the EU combined cycle (provisional figures).

Exciting, elegant, innovative design

The drive-train layout, with a longitudinally mounted in-line engine at the front and rear-wheel drive, is unique within the compact segment. This improves the new BMW 1-Series’ handling, and is also reflected in its design, with BMW’s typical proportions: long bonnet, wide wheelbase, swept-back passenger cell. The new BMW 1-Series is the embodiment of responsiveness and innovative elegance in a compact car, with a youthful, lively design and high-quality features adding to the excitement.

The front of the car is dominated by the large BMW kidney-shaped radiator grille, boldly shaped headlight units and three-section air intake. The grille is tilted forwards, adding emphasis to the challenging stance of this most sporty of compact models, while the surrounding areas catch the light and create a strong sense of three-dimensionality, with four contour lines on the bonnet forming a V that points towards the grille. The typical BMW double-round headlights have accent trim across their tops. In combination with the optional bi-xenon headlights, this creates a strongly focused look, powerfully enhanced by the direction indicators set into the inner light rings of the headlights and an LED accent light. In another innovation for BMW, the side indicator lights are integrated in the exterior mirrors.

From the side, the proportions of the new BMW 1-Series are even more strikingly apparent. The slightly sloping roof line, sporty, angled rear windscreen and flat side windows give the car a coupé-like feel, while the Hofmeister kink – the low forward bend at the back end of the side windows – extends well into the C-pillar, making the door aperture wider and facilitating entry to and exit from the rear seats.

The design quality of the new BMW 1-Series, which is unique in the compact segment, is particularly evident in the distinctive BMW lines and dramatically curved surfaces. The characteristic BMW swage line starts at the front sidewall and rises continuously to the rear lights, its boldness giving powerful emphasis to the shoulder area, with the door openers neatly integrated into the swage line. An additional character line below the doors flows sharply upwards into the outline of the rear wheel arch. The sill line provides a similarly dynamic touch, running parallel to the road and then rising steeply at the rear wheel arch, which is nicely echoed by the outlines of the side windows. The size of the rear wheel arches draws attention to its rear-wheel-drive layout which is the reason for its excellent dynamic responses.

The wide-set wheel arches reinforce the broad, powerful impression created by the back of the new BMW 1-Series. The wide-opening, slightly concave tailgate is opened by pressing the top section of the BMW emblem that sits at its centre, and the rear lights are also set well apart, creating a strong horizontal emphasis that is heightened by their deep surrounds.

There are optional xenon headlights, and the rear lights consist of L-shaped banks of LEDs. An additional brake light is set into the roof spoiler. The outline of the rear apron echoes that of the front bumper, while the V-shaped emblem surround leads the eye towards the road surface, emphasizing the new BMW 1-Series’ stable roadholding.

The interior: premium finish, dynamic lines, driver-friendly cockpit

Inside, a combination of typical BMW design features and innovative accents gives the new BMW 1-Series a fresh, youthful and modern feel, with a focus on spaciousness and driving pleasure. Lines and surfaces are dynamic and forward-leaning, with high-quality, precision-finished materials reflecting the model’s premium specifications. BMW’s characteristic driver-friendliness is apparent in the angled displays and controls in the middle of the instrument panel, and the ergonomic contours of the centre console, designed for maximum visibility. The interior surfaces are layered, another innovation which gives the new BMW 1-Series an organic look and feel.

In conjunction with an optional navigation system and the BMW Professional radio, the new BMW 1-Series uses the BMW iDrive system. This comprises a controller on the centre console, favourites buttons and a freestanding flatscreen monitor. The 6.5 or 8.8-inch high-resolution control display, which is integrated into the instrument panel, is used for all information, entertainment, telecommunications and navigation functions. The new BMW 1-Series also offers much more storage space, with large door pockets, two cupholders on the centre console, a roomy glove compartment, and a compartment under the armrest. Bottles of up to 1 litre can be fitted into the lower door panel sections.

The optional storage package includes large compartments in the rear doors and nets on the front seatbacks. The 360-litre luggage compartment expands to a maximum of 1,200 litres by lowering the 60/40 split-folding rear seats, giving a flat surface extending all the way to the front seats. The optional through-loading system has 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats.

The ultimate in personalization: BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line make their debut

The exclusive new BMW Sport Line and BMW Urban Line of interior and exterior equipment help to show off the high-tech, dynamic facets of the new BMW 1-Series to best advantage. The BMW Sport Line includes sports seats with specific coverings, leather sports steering wheel with contrasting red stitching, a red keyclasp, adjustable armrests, high-gloss black interior trim and matt coral accent strips. The instruments have specific number and scaling designs. The ambient lighting can be switched between orange and white the inclusion of this feature in the centre console and footwell is exclusive to the BMW Sport Line.

Other features of the BMW Sport Line include 16-inch star-spoke light-alloy wheels, black exhaust pipe end trim, and door sill finishers with “BMW Sport” lettering. The kidney bars, the central air intake trim bar, the side intake surrounds and the rear bumper trim are all high-gloss black. Additional options include high-gloss black mirror caps and 17-inch two-tone light-alloy wheels.The BMW Urban Line includes specific cloth/leather seats, a leather sports steering wheel, adjustable armrests, and contemporary acrylic glass interior trim, which creates a strong sense of depth and is available in white or black with matt oxide silver accent strips. A striking effect is also provided by the ambient and courtesy lights, which can be switched between orange and LED royal blue. An additional light source on the B-pillar enhances the effect of the illumination.

The distinctive exterior includes specific 16-inch V-spoke alloy wheels or optional 17-inch high-gloss white wheels with an angled surface, and white rear bumper trim. Additional design accents on the front include white kidney bars with chrome-plated fronts and a white trim bar for the centre air intake. The side intake surrounds are painted in the same colour as the car, and the BMW Urban Line also includes door sill finishers with “BMW Urban” lettering and a white keyclasp. White mirror caps are available as an option.

The components of the BMW Lines are matched down to the last detail, and create a striking visual impact. Other individually customizable features include a choice of seat coverings, interior trims and accent strips and light-alloy wheels.Apart from the new BMW Lines, the new BMW 1-Series itself offers additional design and material options. The standard equipment includes satin silver interior trim and Move fabric seats, and among the optional alternatives are additional interior trims and accent panels and Dakota leather seats in a choice of two colours. All upholstery versions are also available for the optional sports seats, and there are currently three standard and five metallic exterior paint colours.

The new generation of petrol engines: dynamic power delivery and outstanding fuel efficiency thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.The new BMW 1-Series is currently available with a choice of two latest-generation four-cylinder petrol engines and three radically redesigned four-cylinder diesel units.

Perfect handling: high-quality suspension technology, even weight distribution and improved stability control

The new BMW 1-Series boasts best-in-class suspension technology, with a double-joint cross-strut front axle with McPherson struts and sway bars, and a five-link rear axle. The high aluminium content of the front axle structure effectively reduces the unsprung mass, while noise levels have also been reduced and crash performance improved.

Both the front and rear axles have double elastic bearings and extra-large bearing blocks for increased comfort and responsiveness. The new BMW 1-Series has a wider track than its predecessor (51 millimetres wider at the front, 72 millimetres wider at the rear), and the almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution helps to translate the dynamic advantages of the rear-wheel drive layout into an exciting and agile ride.

The new BMW 1-Series has electromechanical power steering as standard, combining typical BMW precision with very low energy consumption. The optional Servotronic function provides speed-dependent power assist. Variable Sport Steering, also available as an option, reduces the number of steering wheel rotations required to make sharp turns. In this mechanical system, steering ratios are adjusted using a variable steering rack. Parking and turning are safer and easier, requiring minimal steering effort, but the typical BMW steering precision and directional stability at high speeds are maintained.As an alternative to the standard 16-inch wheels, the new BMW 1-Series is also available with 16, 17 and 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Its responsiveness and powerful braking in emergency situations are partly due to DSC Dynamic Stability Control, and the car also has ABS anti-lock braking, DTC Dynamic Traction Control, CBC Cornering Brake Control and DBC Dynamic Braking Control. Other features now include braking assistance, fading compensation, brake drying and hill assist.

DTC mode increases the intervention thresholds of DSC, making it easier to drive on loose sand or deep snow. By allowing slight slippage of the drive wheels, it also facilitates controllable oversteer. DSC Off mode activates the electronic rear axle differential locking system. If either of the drive wheels suffers wheelspin while accelerating through tight bends, brake force is applied to this individually, so that the opposite wheel maintains traction.

Model versions:
BMW 118i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS variable valve control,
capacity: 1, 598 cc, output: 125 kW/170 hp at 4,800 rpm,
maximum torque: 250 Nm at 1,500 – 4,500 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.4 seconds,
maximum speed: 225 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 5.8 – 5.9 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 134 – 137 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.
BMW 116i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS variable valve control,
capacity: 1,598 cc, output: 100 kW/136 hp at 4, 400 rpm,
maximum torque: 220 Nm at 1,350 – 4, 300 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 8.5 seconds,
maximum speed: 210 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 5.5 – 5.7 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 129 – 132 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.
BMW 120d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail magnetic-valve direct injection
(max. injection pressure: 1,800 bar),
capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 135 kW/184 hp at 4, 000 rpm,
maximum torque: 380 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 750 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.2 seconds,
maximum speed: 228 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.5 – 4.6 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 119 – 122 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.
BMW 118d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail, magnetic-valve direct injection (max. injection pressure: 1,600 bar),
capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm,
max. torque: 320 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 500 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 8.9 seconds,
maximum speed: 212 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.4 – 4.5 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 115 – 118 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.
BMW 116d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger with common-rail, magnetic-valve direct injection (max. injection pressure: 1,600 bar),
capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 85 kW/116 hp at 4,000 rpm,
maximum torque: 260 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 10.3 seconds,
maximum speed: 200 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.3 – 4.5 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 114 – 117 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

This is the all-new generation of BMW 1 Series. And it looks like the car has a disease or major birth defects.

Some might say it’s become more elegant and classy than before, but to me that radical front-end with huge headlamps and small grilles looks ugly. But hey, that’s personal preference. The back-end looks much better, simple and nice. They seem to have cured the poor rear legroom issue by putting the car on a steroid diet. It is bigger and chubbier than the one it replaces. The wheelbase longer by 1.2 inches and it’s also wider as well.

These are the leaked pictures of the 2012 1er we have here, so there’s no official details as of yet. But it will share some its engines with MINI, which means it gets a 1.6 liter and a 2.0 liter diesel in the powertrain list. A year after the launch it might also get a six-cylinder option, just as the old gen did. The car comes with a six-speed manual, and an automatic which is the new 8-speed model.

The looks of the new 1er also hints at the way the next BMW 3 Series will look like. Oh dear! The car will make its official debut at the IAA Frankfurt autoshow.

From May Australians too will get the entry-level BMW 120i Coupe as it joins the lineup of 123d,125i and 135i M Sport in that corner of the world. Australians have bought 6100 units of 1er coupe and cabrio since its launch in 2008.

The BMW 120i Coupe is powered by a double VANOS and Valvetronic-enables 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine that makes 115 kW or very nearly155 hp.Priced at $47,400 AUD, this basic 1 Series is the most affordable BMW Coupé offered for sale in Australia but it’s not like they’ve skipped on equipments.

Standard equipment includes 17-inch light-alloy wheels, sports seats with electric backrest, Boston leather upholstery, sports leather steering wheel, cruise control, rear parking sensors, fog lights, ambient lighting package, 60:40 split-fold rear seats, storage compartment package, rain sensor, Bluetooth, USB, 6-speaker stereo system and BMW’s full complement of active and passive safety equipment including brake force display as well as warning triangle and first aid kit.

It’s not a secret that following the 5 Series GT, BMW tends to make similar versions of other series as well. Some of the company’s officials have already confirmed a 3 Series Gt for instance. Now the rumors are flying around suggesting that the Bavarian firm is considering a GT version of the 1 Series to be unveiled soon.

BMW GT models are something between a sedan and a estate car. It’s not a full station wagon, but it’s larger and more practical than normal sedans. That sounds very good, but given the 5 Series GT it could have a catastrophic effect on styling! I would gladly trade some of the practicality for more beauty and style in design.

The rumored 1 Series GT could also get BMW’s new Front wheel Drive system, which they have confirmed but not revealed yet. There is no word on when and where the actual car will be revealed, but considering the recently revealed 1 Series M Coupe, 1 Series must have been pushed to the back of the queue to make room for other models awaiting premiere, chief among which the new BMW M5.

via: Germancarforum

BMW dropped the official MSRP of all models making debut in Detroit, and one of them is the new 1 Series going on sale later this year in Spring as a 2012 model. The 1 Series range in America includes 128i Coupe, $31,825, 135i Coupe, $39,925, 128i Convertible, $37,475, 135i Convertible, $44,675.

Both coupe and convertible versions of the new 1er will be available as 128i and 135i models. The first gets a a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline-6 engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, and the latter a features BMW’s newest, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. Equipped with a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and BMW’s revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, the engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.

The popular BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models have received substantial enhancements for an early start to the 2012 model year. The 128i model has received BMW’s innovative Air Curtain system, which smoothes airflow over the front wheels to reduce wind resistance. All 1 Series models receive updated headlight and tail light assemblies, featuring a new “eyebrow” design up front and new tail lights at rear. Xenon Adaptive headlights – standard on 135i models, optional on 128i models – add LED backlighting for the new eyebrow and LED light tubes in the tail lights. All 1 Series models now feature standard iPod/USB integration. Convertible models now feature standard through-loading system for improved storage capacity, while 135i models gain standard power seats with adjustable lumbar support. Convertible models receive larger light-alloy wheels, now 17″ diameter on 128i Convertible and 18″ diameter on the 135i Convertible.