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  • Rumors of Next-Gen Entry-Level BMW 1-Series M Car Revived

    Rumors of Next-Gen Entry-Level BMW 1-Series M Car Revived November 4th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson's avatar Nelson Ireson, Author, November 4th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 3 Comments

    Rumors of Next-Gen Entry-Level BMW 1-Series M Car Revived

    About a year ago, BMW's M Division development chief said a 1-Series M car was off the table, and hopes were consequently deflated. But now new rumors of an entry-level M car are back, this time built around the next generation of the 1-Series.

    It's just a rumor with no official confirmation at this point, but the idea is so tantalizing, it's hard not to imagine what such a car might look like.

    A more potent take on the current twin-turbo inline-six found in the 135i, output could be positioned around 330 horsepower. That would give the 414-horsepower V-8 M3 some breathing room, while also putting the new M car's performance a notch above...

    About a year ago, BMW's M Division development chief said a 1-Series M car was off the table, and hopes were consequently deflated. But now new rumors of an entry-level M car are back, this time built around the next generation of the 1-Series. It's just a rumor with no official confirmation at this point, but the idea is so tantalizing, it's hard not to imagine what such a car might look like. A more potent take on the current twin-turbo inline-six found in the 135i, output could be positioned around 330 horsepower. That would give the 414-horsepower V-8 M3 some breathing room, while also putting the new M car's performance a notch above the best of the standard 1-Series. Other modifications, standard to other M treatments, would likely include upgraded shocks and springs, larger, more fade-restistant brakes, unique wheels, a custom aero package, and unique interior treatment. The 2007 135i tii Concept (pictured in the gallery above) could be an example of the direction BMW would take. The point of a 1-Series M car? As the rest of BMW's M range goes further upscale, attractive new, younger buyers to the brand means BMW needs a car positioned accordingly. Expect pricing to start out around the $45,000-$50,000 mark in the U.S., about $5,000-$10,000 below a typical M3, if the project does become reality. It won't get here until the next generation of the 1-Series, however, which puts it at least two, possible three years out. [Autocar] Read More

  • Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 1-Series

    Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 1-Series September 10th, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran's avatar Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, September 10th, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 6 Comments

    Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 1-Series

    BMW released an updated version of the 1-Series compact late last year and since then suspicious prototypes of the car have been captured running around the south of Germany. Until now, we had only seen early development test-mules but the latest shots reveal the first full prototypes for the next-generation 1-Series Hatchback model.

    The current 1-Series has often been criticized for having a back seat no full-sized adult would be comfortable in. However, the rear seat room in this new 2012 model is expected to be much improved. This may also see BMW finally release the Hatchback version of the 1-Series in the all-important U.S. market. A...

    BMW released an updated version of the 1-Series compact late last year and since then suspicious prototypes of the car have been captured running around the south of Germany. Until now, we had only seen early development test-mules but the latest shots reveal the first full prototypes for the next-generation 1-Series Hatchback model. The current 1-Series has often been criticized for having a back seat no full-sized adult would be comfortable in. However, the rear seat room in this new 2012 model is expected to be much improved. This may also see BMW finally release the Hatchback version of the 1-Series in the all-important U.S. market. A slightly longer wheelbase and wider track than the current model will be present. Last year BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer revealed that the four-cylinder engines destined for the next-gen 1-Series will be the same compact units developed jointly by BMW and France’s PSA Peugeot-Citroen for the Mini and a number of French models. The engines will range from 1.4 to 2.0-liter in displacement and will be available in both turbocharged and naturally aspirated forms. Expect to see BMW’s award-winning straight six engines also appear in the lineup. Engines could be downsized somewhat to meet more stringent emissions and fuel economy rules, but with the aid of the direct injection and forced induction, power figures may not decrease substantially, and could even increase in models like the 135i. Engine stop-start and electrical-regenerative systems should carry over into the new series as well as possible new EfficientDynamics technologies such as heat-recovery systems and solar panels. BMW has also revealed that initial testing of thermoelectric generators and solar panels on its cars showed savings of up to 5% in fuel consumption. Expect the new 1-Series Hatchback to launch in 2011 and be followed by new Coupe and Convertible variants, as well as a possible shooting brake model and high-performance M version. Read More

  • Report: Lexus to tackle 1-series in Europe with new hatchback

    Report: Lexus to tackle 1-series in Europe with new hatchback August 6th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, August 6th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 12 Comments

    Report: Lexus to tackle 1-series in Europe with new hatchback Lexus is unlikely to launch a sub-$30,000 model in the U.S. but that doesn’t mean it won’t develop a new entry-level model for other markets. One possibility is Europe, where small cars like BMW’s 1-series and the Audi A3 sell in substantial numbers, and according to a new report Lexus will have a competitor for its German rivals as early as next year.

    Set for a possible production debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the new hatch would do battle at the entry-level end of the market, potentially leaving room for the rumored IS-based hybrid also headed to Europe in the next several years. The latest info, from Edmunds,... Lexus is unlikely to launch a sub-$30,000 model in the U.S. but that doesn’t mean it won’t develop a new entry-level model for other markets. One possibility is Europe, where small cars like BMW’s 1-series and the Audi A3 sell in substantial numbers, and according to a new report Lexus will have a competitor for its German rivals as early as next year. Set for a possible production debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the new hatch would do battle at the entry-level end of the market, potentially leaving room for the rumored IS-based hybrid also headed to Europe in the next several years. The latest info, from Edmunds, follows along the lines of several earlier reports of a coming entry-level Lexus. Toyota exec Tokuichi Uranishi has previously revealed that Lexus could develop a new entry-level model for Europe to help reach its European sales target of 150,000 vehicles by 2015 – information that was backed last year by Lexus’ Australian chief John Roca. Britain's Top Gear reported in May that Lexus will have a concept version of its 1-series rival on show at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, ahead of its market launch next year. One important difference between the two reports, however, is that the previous report pegs the new Lexus as a dedicated hybrid based on the 2010 Toyota Prius. The latest news reveals no details of the car, but neither does it mention plans for a hybrid. Designed to compete with Germany’s highly efficient four-cylinder diesel lineup, the new car will be a compact hatchback with FWD and be priced cheaper than the current Lexus IS 220D. The aforementioned Lexus IS hybrid also thought to be under consideration for Europe would likely slot it somewhat above the entry-level IS models, doing battle instead with the competition's V-6 diesels. Read More

  • New engines added to BMW 1-series lineup

    New engines added to BMW 1-series lineup June 25th, 2009 ByJames Martinez James Martinez, Author, June 25th, 2009 James Martinez 2 Comments

    New engines added to BMW 1-series lineup Like its 7-series bigger brother, the diminutive BMW 1-series is being upgraded for the 2010 model year with new engines and several special edition models. New to the lineup are the 120i and 118d 1-series Coupes, as well as the Lifestyle and Sport Editions of the three and five-door Hatchback models.

    Still the only rear-wheel-drive model in the compact segment, the BMW 1-series offers a unique blend of sporty driving and compact car efficiency. Nowhere is this more evident than in the 1-series Coupe, which for 2010 will be available with a direct-injected 2.0L four-cylinder engine developing 170hp (125kW) and 155lb-ft (210Nm) of torque.

    ... Like its 7-series bigger brother, the diminutive BMW 1-series is being upgraded for the 2010 model year with new engines and several special edition models. New to the lineup are the 120i and 118d 1-series Coupes, as well as the Lifestyle and Sport Editions of the three and five-door Hatchback models. Still the only rear-wheel-drive model in the compact segment, the BMW 1-series offers a unique blend of sporty driving and compact car efficiency. Nowhere is this more evident than in the 1-series Coupe, which for 2010 will be available with a direct-injected 2.0L four-cylinder engine developing 170hp (125kW) and 155lb-ft (210Nm) of torque. With the new engine, the 120i Coupe will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 224km/h. Fuel economy comes in at 35.6mpg (6.6L/100km). Also available is a 143hp (105kW) 2.0L turbodiesel with 221lb-ft (300Nm) of torque on tap. This power unit offers a respectable combination of performance and fuel economy, with the 118d Coupe accelerating from a standstill to 100km/h in 9.0 seconds and reaching a top speed of 210km/h. Average fuel economy comes in at 52mpg (4.5L/100km). Both new variants of the 1-series Coup also come as standard with a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies such as brake energy regeneration, an engine stop-start function, a gearshift point indicator and ancillary units with on-demand management and control. In terms of style, the three and five-door Hatchbacks can be ordered in either Lifestyle or Sport Edition Models, both of which feature unique color schemes, 17in wheels, and special trim.2010 BMW 1-series Read More

  • Report: Next-gen BMW 1-series to get four new variants

    Report: Next-gen BMW 1-series to get four new variants June 23rd, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, June 23rd, 2009 Nelson Ireson 11 Comments

    Report: Next-gen BMW 1-series to get four new variants While its Mini dealerships expand and BMW plans to double North American production, it's even busier behind the scenes working on the next generation of its most compact platform. Four new BMW 1-series variants are rumored to be in the works for the next-gen model, known internally as the F20, in addition to the traditional coupe and hatch already in production.

    The new variants include a new version of both the Coupe and Cabrio, a GT-style Estate, and a crossover-like vehicle possibly wearing a Y1 badge. A roadster version called the Z2 and potentially a small coupe version of that car are also up for production, reports Autocar. Bringing... While its Mini dealerships expand and BMW plans to double North American production, it's even busier behind the scenes working on the next generation of its most compact platform. Four new BMW 1-series variants are rumored to be in the works for the next-gen model, known internally as the F20, in addition to the traditional coupe and hatch already in production. The new variants include a new version of both the Coupe and Cabrio, a GT-style Estate, and a crossover-like vehicle possibly wearing a Y1 badge. A roadster version called the Z2 and potentially a small coupe version of that car are also up for production, reports Autocar. Bringing the car to market now is thought to make sense both from a consumer perspective and for competitive reasons - Volkswagen is also reported to be going forward with the Bluesport roadster, which may also share its underpinnings with entry-level Porsche and Audi roadsters. So far the GT-style Estate and the crossover-like variant are still only possibilities, without official approval. A four-door sedan-profile car on the 1-series platform is also among the talk. The next-generation 1-series is expected to include a range of powertrains. A 1.3L three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine could replace the current 1.6L four-cylinder. If so, in Europe at least, five petrol models should be available: the 116i with a 136hp (101kW) 1.3L turbo; the 118i with a 177hp (132kW) 1.3L turbo; the 120i with a 218hp (162kW) 2.0L turbo; the 130i with the 272hp (203kW) naturally-aspirated 3.0L inline six; and the 135i with a 326hp (243kW) turbo six-cylinder. The diesel range will be somewhat more compact with a 118d featuring a 150hp (112kW) 2.0L turbodiesel, a 120d with a 184hp (137kW) 2.0L turbodiesel and a 123d with a 211hp (157kW) 2.0L turbodiesel. A series of high-performance 'ti' models could also come with design assistance from the M Division, though exactly what shape those might take is still up in the air. BMW's Megacity urban vehicle project, which had previously been linked to the next-gen 1-series, will not play a role in the coming lineup. The Megacity project is independent of the 1-series because of the unique nature of its design goals. According to previous reports, the first model released - the five-door hatch - will hit the market around 2011, while the top-end model will wait until early 2012 to make its debut, while the standard coupe will come toward the end of 2012. A cabrio will come in early 2013 as the last of the certain-to-be-produced models.BMW 1-series mule2012 BMW 1-series spy shots2012 BMW Z2 Roadster preview Read More

  • Report: BMW to cut 1-series production costs, introduce shooting brake variant

    Report: BMW to cut 1-series production costs, introduce shooting brake variant May 5th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, May 5th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 5 Comments

    Report: BMW to cut 1-series production costs, introduce shooting brake variant BMW is having a hard time making much money on the 1-series because it is capped in its upper price range by competition with the 3-series, yet it still features much of the same technology and is nearly the same size as its bigger brother. To help remedy this situation, BMW is looking to cut build costs while packing more features into the next 1-series, due in 2011 or 2012.

    The model makes sense: spend less, charge more, make more profit. Improving the value of the 1-series while at the same time pushing it a bit further up-market will enable BMW to clear more cash per car sold - an important thing to do on a higher-volume car like the 1.
    ... BMW is having a hard time making much money on the 1-series because it is capped in its upper price range by competition with the 3-series, yet it still features much of the same technology and is nearly the same size as its bigger brother. To help remedy this situation, BMW is looking to cut build costs while packing more features into the next 1-series, due in 2011 or 2012. The model makes sense: spend less, charge more, make more profit. Improving the value of the 1-series while at the same time pushing it a bit further up-market will enable BMW to clear more cash per car sold - an important thing to do on a higher-volume car like the 1. But how will BMW get there? Possibly by sharing many more components, and even platforms, with the 3-series. Sharing the costs across both ranges would improve the economies of scale for the 3-series too, but it runs the risk of making the 1-series too much like its next-step-up sibling. Offering a different range of body styles, including possibly a shooting brake variant, plus new engines and feature sets will be the way to distinguish the slightly-smaller 1-series, it seems. Speaking of engines, fuel efficiency will also play a key role in the next-gen 1-series, with Europeans getting an all-new three-cylinder turbo petrol unit rated at an estimated 110hp (82kW), according to Auto Motor & Sport. The new engine, along with new technology applied to the 116d's diesel engine, will enable more models than ever to lay claim to CO2 emissions under 100g/km. This set of goals mirrors closely those of BMW's Project i city car. The usual suspects of naturally aspirated and turbo fours and sixes will also be on tap. Keeping the value up will be a new range of 'driver assistance' technologies trickled down or derived from the 7-series and 5-series sedans. A forward-looking camera that aids lane detection and collision hazards and a HUD night-vision display are both possible candidates for inclusion in the next 1-series. A host of new features are also expected for the next-gen 3-series, including a new GT body style not unlike the much-reviled BMW 5-series GT Concept. Read More

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