BMW has announced that it has started production of the fourth generation 1 Series, and the car will be produced at their factory in Leipzig, Germany.

Visually, a hatchback body style has been retained with a redesigned front and rear bumper, new LED lights. Earlier spy photos confirmed that the M version will feature deeper fenders, a discreet rear spoiler and quad tailpipes, just like the outgoing M135i xDrive. Inside, the new 1 Series will be equipped with a new digital cockpit and the latest technical solutions.

When it comes to the powertrain, the new 1 Series is offered in several options: 118d, 120d, 120 and M135 xDrive. The most powerful version of the M135 xDrive comes with a 2.0-L gasoline engine with 300 hp (224 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque, and AWD. That’s enough power to push the car from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The 120 version is powered by a 1.5-L twin-turbocharged 170 hp (127 kW) three-cylinder mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.

The diesel options 118d and 120d, are powered by a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine with 150 hp (112 kW) and 163 hp (121 kW), combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid.

The fourth generation BMW 1 Series will arrive on the market at the end of the year.

Source: BMW

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