BMW’s 1 Series facelift, as we know, is about to arrive at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show on March 3, 2015.Featuring a host of cosmetic changes as well an updated feature list; the new 1 Series, mechanically, remains identical to the current model.
Post its Geneva debut, the premium hatchback will go on sale this year in a number of global markets and if we go by a recent report from Indian Autos Blog, India will be on the cards too. Speaking to Mr. Philipp von Sahr, President of BMW India, IAB has reported that the 1 Series facelift could be a part of BMW India’s 15 new launches that will take place this year.
The biggest highlight of the new 1 Series comes in the form of its exterior design. BMW has attempted to make the 1 Series more appealing to a wider range of buyers thanks to the new, improved looks and updated equipment list. At the front, the 1 Series now features bigger air intakes, chrome accents and a revised kidney grille. The outgoing model’s triangular units have been replaced and look more in line with BMW’s current design philosophy. The side profile gets flared wheel arches and horizontal lines which give it a larger than life profile. The rear end too has been re-profiled and now gets BMW’s famous rectangular wrap around lamps in place of the smaller units on the outgoing model.
Inside, BMW has upgraded the feature list significantly. The updates include new upholstery, touchscreen system with optional navigation and dual zone climate control.
Mechanically, the 1 Series gets four petrol engines and four diesel engines in the range of 1.5-litres to 2-litres. The base 116i gets a 1.5-litre three-cylinder mill while the rest are four-pot units. In the diesel range, the 118d and 120d are available with xDrive option also. The top of the line M135i’s 3-litre engine has been tuned to 326bhp as compared to the older car’s 320bhp. Gearbox options across all models include a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic gearbox from ZF.
Looking at its sales performance here in the Indian market, the BMW 1 Series has not exactly been a success although with this much improved version, BMW India will be looking forward to a brighter future for its premium hatchback. Besides the new 1 Series, the brand is also expected to bring the new 6 Series, the X5 M and the X6 M to India this year.
Source: IndianAutosBlog
