Photo: SB Medien
It seems like BMW will change the face of the 1 Series with the facelift that is due next year, a car wearing new headlights being spotted out testing by our spy photographers today. The design reminds us of the 2 Series but we can’t be absolutely sure until we get to see it camo free.
That’s rather peculiar because up until now, all LCI prototypes we’ve seen appeared to be sporting small if any design changes. Furthermore, they all seemed to be focused on the front fascia, the rear being left untouched.
This time, things go a lot deeper. The front end looks like it’s going to follow into the footsteps of the 2 Series, with similar headlights and a new grille as well as a new front bumper.
Going round the back, more changes can be noticed. Unlike the look of the current model, it seems like the taillights will be upgraded to feature the BMW LED strips found on newer models like the X5 and X4. We might also be in for some small changes on the sides, where all that camouflage goes but we don’t have any official info at the moment.
As for technical bits, expect the new B-series engine family to be introduced on various models. The 114i model could get the new EU6 compliant 1.2-liter 3-cylinder petrol engine found on the MINI One while the 116i could start using the B38 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder powerplant from the Cooper hardtop.
Going further up in the range, few other changes are expected. The N20 units will be kept meaning that all 12x models will keep their specs unchanged and the M135i will also continue with the N55HP engine until the end of production when it will be replaced by the B58 unit.
More technology could be made available inside as well, including the iDrive touch-sensitive controller, new driver assistance features and active and passive safety items. Expect the LCI model to be launched early next year, at the Geneva Motor Show, at the latest.
This time, things go a lot deeper. The front end looks like it’s going to follow into the footsteps of the 2 Series, with similar headlights and a new grille as well as a new front bumper.
Going round the back, more changes can be noticed. Unlike the look of the current model, it seems like the taillights will be upgraded to feature the BMW LED strips found on newer models like the X5 and X4. We might also be in for some small changes on the sides, where all that camouflage goes but we don’t have any official info at the moment.
As for technical bits, expect the new B-series engine family to be introduced on various models. The 114i model could get the new EU6 compliant 1.2-liter 3-cylinder petrol engine found on the MINI One while the 116i could start using the B38 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder powerplant from the Cooper hardtop.
Going further up in the range, few other changes are expected. The N20 units will be kept meaning that all 12x models will keep their specs unchanged and the M135i will also continue with the N55HP engine until the end of production when it will be replaced by the B58 unit.
More technology could be made available inside as well, including the iDrive touch-sensitive controller, new driver assistance features and active and passive safety items. Expect the LCI model to be launched early next year, at the Geneva Motor Show, at the latest.
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