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BMW 1-Series Gran Turismo to Arrive in 2014

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.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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