There might be a new BMW coming to market soon. It compact, a bit like the A3 Sportback and we hope they don’t make it look anything like the GT version of the 5-Series. Yes, you guessed it, the Bavarians are reportedly working on a 1-Series Gran Turismo.
Ever since the new 1-Series started testing back in 2009, we’ve expected the varian would eventually hit the range, together with a coupe, cabriolet and crossover. The two-doors might be called the 2-Series but the Gran Turismo will certainly be a 1er.
According to Autocar, the model will bring a body shape that mixes elements from both hatchbacks and wagons in a package that’s more presentable than either one. Based on the same platform as the rest of the 1-Series as well as the third-generation MINI line, it will take on competition from Audi in Europe, where the four-ringed model is already well established.
It will feature MacPherson struts at the front with BMW’s usual Z-axle doing the work for the rear in terms of suspension. All-wheel xDrive will be an option, which also allows BMW to dream up a small SUV. Yes, front wheel drive is possible, though everybody is hoping BMW doesn’t go down that road.
The 1-Series GT is expected to arrive in 2014, giving BMW plenty of time to downsize the engines even more. By then, 1.4 and 2.0-liter units will dominate the range, though six-clyinder units will still be part of the offering. However, seeing as the new 2.0-liter TwinPower four-cylinder is being introduced to just about every BMW that has “28i” in its name, we can’t really know for sure.
Ever since the new 1-Series started testing back in 2009, we’ve expected the varian would eventually hit the range, together with a coupe, cabriolet and crossover. The two-doors might be called the 2-Series but the Gran Turismo will certainly be a 1er.
According to Autocar, the model will bring a body shape that mixes elements from both hatchbacks and wagons in a package that’s more presentable than either one. Based on the same platform as the rest of the 1-Series as well as the third-generation MINI line, it will take on competition from Audi in Europe, where the four-ringed model is already well established.
It will feature MacPherson struts at the front with BMW’s usual Z-axle doing the work for the rear in terms of suspension. All-wheel xDrive will be an option, which also allows BMW to dream up a small SUV. Yes, front wheel drive is possible, though everybody is hoping BMW doesn’t go down that road.
The 1-Series GT is expected to arrive in 2014, giving BMW plenty of time to downsize the engines even more. By then, 1.4 and 2.0-liter units will dominate the range, though six-clyinder units will still be part of the offering. However, seeing as the new 2.0-liter TwinPower four-cylinder is being introduced to just about every BMW that has “28i” in its name, we can’t really know for sure.