Not surprisingly, the formula for the new 1 Series is quite similar now to all of its rivals, especially the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class, right down to having a hot hatch version. We believe this blue Smurf car is just that, an M135i xDrive with the same powertrain that just got installed on the John Cooper Works Countryman and Clubman.
Several features indicate an M affiliation for this model, like the size of the wheels or the shape of the body kit. However, the real tell is a new kind of grille design which we've also seen on the Z4 M40i recently. The other recently released photos show another configuration entirely, but still hidden under a camo wrap.
BMW's press people have insisted the F40 (that's the codename) is not based on a MINI platform because the architecture is more suited for hybridization. But the engines will be largely the same, and we're not bothered by that at all.
The M135i will have standard AWD, an 8-speed automatic and a 2-liter turbo with 306 PS and 450 Nm of torque. We also know a little bit about two other setups, one being the popular 120d with 190 HP that needs no explaining and the other a 118i model with a 1.5-liter making 140 PS and around 250 Nm. That's not bad for a 3-cylinder.
It's reported that using the FAAR platform, the 1 Series was able to shed an average of 20 kilos while increasing legroom and cargo volumes. Its full reveal is just around the corner, scheduled for May 27th at a special event.
