New BMW 1-Series Revealed Ahead of Global Debut in October; Shows New, Sharper Design

BMW has debuted the 1-Series hatchback, its most recent entry-level model, in international markets. To better align with the brand's newest offerings, the all-new 1-Series has a revamped interior and exterior design. The other significant modification is the addition of mild hybrid technology to the 120 and 120d models. By October 2024, it is expected to be available for purchase overseas. The German automaker will manufacture the model at its Leipzig facility. Before discontinuing it owing to low sales, BMW sold the second generation of the 1-Series hatchback in India. Back then, the Mercedes-Benz A-class was the model's main rival in the country. Whether the carmaker intends to introduce the latest generation 1-series to Indian markets is still unclear.

Also Read: 2025 BMW 3 Series Globally Revealed with Mild-hybrid Powertrain and Updated Looks

New BMW 1-Series: Styling and Dimensions

With its swept-back headlamps and sharper, more angular surface up front, the nose is notably slimmer. There is just one enormous, vented panel on the nose of the model as a result of the wide kidney grilles losing their colour-coded centre strake. This part also houses the sensor and radar units for the vehicle's driver assistance systems.

The 2025 1-Series measures 1,459mm in height, 1,800mm in width, and 4,361mm in length with a 2,670mm wheelbase. The M135 comes with optional compound brakes and wheel widths ranging from 17 to 19 inches. The rear end is also noticeably different, with newly designed taillights that are roughly the same size and shape as those on the current X2 crossover.

New BMW 1-Series: Interior and Features

The cabin of the 1-Series has been completely redesigned, with the highlight being the integration of a 10.7-inch infotainment system and a driver-focused 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The newest iteration of BMW iDrive with the QuickSelect feature is running on the screens. Additional modifications include a revamped centre console with a new gear selector and a revised dashboard with new air vent designs. It appears that BMW is the most recent automaker to follow the lead and has stated that its cars are outfitted with leather-free upholstery. Several additional equipment additionally come as standard on the latest hatchback model, including BMW Driving Assistant, automatic air conditioning, an alarm system, electrically folding exterior mirrors, and BMW Live Cockpit Plus.

Also Read: 2025 BMW M3 Competition xDrive Marks Global Debut with More Power Than Before

New BMW 1-Series: Powertrain Options

Multiple engine options are available for the new 1-Series. The 118d and 120d are two models in the diesel lineup that come with a 48V mild hybrid system and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine. The former generates 360Nm of peak torque and 146bhp, while the latter generates 159bhp of maximum power and 400Nm of torque. 

The 120 draws power from a mild-hybrid 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 166bhp of maximum power and 280Nm of peak torque. A seven-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox is now standard on the 1-Series. Furthermore, the car can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 7.8 seconds. 

The flagship M135 xDrive will be the most potent model, with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering 400Nm of torque and close to 296bhp of power. Although it has all-wheel drive, this one is also coupled to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 4.9 seconds and has an electronically regulated top speed of 250km/h.