The ever-popular 1 Series, BMW JAPAN’s entry-level model, will undergo a full model change on November 1, 2024, marking the start of a new chapter. The new 1 Series, which had its world premiere on June 5, 2024, is a car that truly embodies the evolution of BMW, combining sporty design, excellent driving performance, and the latest technology.
This full model change includes a wide range of improvements, including a revamped exterior design, an evolved powertrain, and improved interior quality. In this article, we will fully explain the appeal of the new 1 Series, as well as its history and evolution.
History of the BMW 1 Series
The first generation BMW 1 Series was released in 2004. As the successor to the 3 Series Compact, it quickly gained popularity as a model that packed BMW’s signature sporty driving performance into a compact body.
The first model adopted a front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) configuration, achieving agile handling. Despite being a compact car, it offered a BMW-like driving experience, captivating many fans.
The second-generation model changed its drivetrain to FF (front engine, front drive), which increased interior space and improved fuel efficiency.
The new 1 Series is the third generation model, and while it retains the sporty driving feel inherited from the first generation model, it has evolved in every aspect, including design, powertrain, and technology.
Design of the new BMW 1 Series
2025 BMW 1 Series
The exterior of the new 1 Series has evolved into a modern design that combines sportiness and elegance. It is slightly larger than its predecessor: 4,361 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,459 mm high. The overall proportions remain the same, with a long bonnet and striking lines.
The front mask features a wider kidney grille, a symbol of BMW, to emphasize its presence. Combined with the sharp headlights, it gives a bold impression.
2025 BMW 1 Series
The side view is characterized by a flowing roofline and powerful shoulder line, giving the car a relaxed and dynamic impression despite its compact size.
The rear view features L-shaped taillights that emphasize the vehicle’s width, and together with the sporty rear bumper, it creates a powerful impression.
BMW new 1 Series interior
The interior of the new 1 Series is crafted with high-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship to create a luxurious and comfortable space.
The driver-centric cockpit offers superior usability and a focused driving environment. It features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment display housed in a single curved panel. It offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. BMW has removed many buttons from the instrument panel and center console for a cleaner look.
The gear selector has also been changed from the conventional stick type to a toggle switch, and the design around the center console has been completely redesigned, giving it a more refined impression.
The seats are designed to be both comfortable and supportive, helping to reduce fatigue even on long drives and supporting a comfortable journey.
The luggage space is 380L in normal use, but can be expanded to a maximum of 1200L by folding down the rear seats, making it suitable for a wide range of situations, from everyday use to leisure.
BMW’s new 1 Series powertrain
The new 1 Series is available with two engines: a 1.5L inline 3-cylinder gasoline turbo engine and a 2L inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine.
The 1.5L engine is equipped with a 48V mild hybrid system, achieving both powerful acceleration and excellent fuel economy, while the 2L engine delivers overwhelming performance with a maximum output of 300ps and a maximum torque of 40.8kgm.
All vehicles are fitted with a 7-speed DCT transmission, which allows for smooth gear changes and a direct acceleration feel. The drivetrain is FF for vehicles with a 1.5L engine, and 4WD (xDrive) for vehicles with a 2L engine.
Specifications of the new BMW 1 Series
| item | BMW 120 | BMW 120 M Sport | BMW M135 xDrive |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 4,370mm | 4,370mm | 4,370mm |
| Overall width | 1,800mm | 1,800mm | 1,800mm |
| Overall height | 1,465mm | 1,450mm | 1,450mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,670mm | 2,670mm | 2,670mm |
| Vehicle weight | 1,460 kg | 1,460 kg | 1,570 kg |
| gross vehicle weight | 1,735 kg | 1,735 kg | 1,845 kg |
| Engine displacement | 1,498cc | 1,498cc | 1,998cc |
| engine | Inline 3-cylinder gasoline | Inline 3-cylinder gasoline | Inline 4-cylinder gasoline |
| Maximum power | 115kW / 5,000rpm | 115kW / 5,000rpm | 221kW / 5,750rpm |
| Maximum torque | 240kW / 1,500-4,400rpm | 240kW / 1,500-4,400rpm | 400kW / 2,000-4,500rpm |
| Total System Output | 125kW | 125kW | – |
| Total system torque | 280Nm | 280Nm | – |
| WLTC mode fuel economy | 16.8km/L | 16.8km/L | 12.5km/L |
BMW new 1 Series grades and prices
The new 1 Series will be available in three grades:
| grade | engine | Drive system |
Price (10%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 120 | 1.5L inline 3-cylinder gasoline turbo + 48V mild hybrid | FF | 4,780,000 yen |
| BMW 120 M Sport | 1.5L inline 3-cylinder gasoline turbo + 48V mild hybrid | FF | 4,980,000 yen |
| BMW M135 xDrive | 2.0L inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo | 4WD | 6,980,000 yen |
The entry-level model “BMW 120” is attractive for its comprehensive equipment and high cost performance. The “BMW 120 M Sport” features a sporty interior and exterior and is ideal for those who pursue driving. The high-performance model “BMW M135 xDrive” delivers a maximum output of 300ps and is recommended for those seeking overwhelming driving performance.
Advanced safety features of the new 1 Series
The new 1 Series comes equipped with the latest safety features as standard.
- Hands-off traffic jam driving assistance function : When stuck in traffic on the highway, you can drive with your hands off the steering wheel under certain conditions.
- Driving Assist : High-performance cameras and radar accurately grasp the surrounding situation and support safe driving.
- Active cruise control (with stop and go function)
- Lane Change Warning
- Lane Departure Warning
- Collision avoidance and damage mitigation brakes (with accident avoidance steering)
- Cross Traffic Warning
- Pedal misapplication and sudden acceleration prevention function
- Parking Assistant : A function that assists with parking maneuvers.
- Reverse Assist : This function memorizes the route you have just traveled up to 50m and allows you to accurately reverse back.
summary
The new BMW 1 Series is an attractive premium compact car that has evolved in every aspect, including design, driving performance, comfort, and safety. It is a well-balanced car that pursues BMW-like driving experience while also taking environmental performance and safety into consideration. The new 1 Series will set a new standard for entry-level models, ushering in a new era for BMW.
BMW News Release
https://www.bmw.co.jp/ja/press/2024/20241030_2.html
BMW 1 Series
https://www.bmw.co.jp/ja/all-models/1-series/bmw-1-series/bmw-1-series.html
