A prototype for BMW’s upcoming 1-Series sedan has been spotted yet again. Yes, after watching Audi and Mercedes-Benz have all the fun in the luxury compact sedan segment with their respective A3 and CLA, BMW now wants a piece of the action.
As the spy shots reveal, BMW’s entry to the segment, which is expected to be called a 1-Series, though we’ve also heard the automaker might go with 2-Series instead, will feature a conventional notchback sedan body with proportions typical of the brand. BMW has already previewed the design with the Compact Sedan concept rolled out at the 2015 Guangzhou Auto Show.
![BMW Compact Sedan concept, 2015 Guangzhou Auto Show BMW Compact Sedan concept, 2015 Guangzhou Auto Show](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/bmw-compact-sedan-concept-2015-guangzhou-auto-show_100536546_l.jpg)
BMW Compact Sedan concept, 2015 Guangzhou Auto Show
The basis for the vehicle is the front-wheel-drive UKL platform that already features in the BMW X1 and 2-Series Active Tourer as well as the latest MINIs. As previously reported, this platform could end up in seven different BMW-badged vehicles, including the next-generation 1-Series Hatchback and this new 1-Series sedan.
The vehicle’s engine lineup should mirror the one offered in the 2-Series Active Tourer, meaning a series of three- and four-cylinder units, all of them turbocharged. The top model initially should be a 225i, powered by a 231-horsepower four-cylinder. Both front- and all-wheel drive is expected, meaning BMW will have a front-driving sedan in its lineup for the first time.
![2017 BMW 1-Series sedan spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien 2017 BMW 1-Series sedan spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/2017-bmw-1-series-sedan-spy-shots--image-via-s-baldauf-sb-medien_100508801_l.jpg)
2017 BMW 1-Series sedan spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien
Further down the track we expect a 1-Series M Performance model. This one is also expected to feature a four-cylinder, but with output dialed up to around 300 horsepower. We’ve heard that BMW has designed its UKL platform to be flexible enough to install a tranverse-mounted in-line six-cylinder, but it’s too early to tell if we’ll see such an engine fitted to the 1-Series.
Look for a reveal of the 1-Series late this year or early next. If offered in the United States, pricing should start around the $30k mark.
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