We know pretty much everything about the new F40 BMW 1 Series, from the way it looks to its much-publicised (and very controversial) switch to front-wheel drive. Now, you can add the interior to that list, as our European spy photographers have managed to get inside the car and snag a few images.
As you’d expect, the new 1er will get a simplified version of the geometric design language that’s already been seen on cars like the new 3 Series. Clear to see are the trapezoidal air vents with integrated climate controls – sans the chrome detailing on other models – and the neatly organised centre console, complete with the iDrive controller, stubby gearlever and start button (the one beside the instrument cluster is fake).
Speaking of which, the instrument cluster retains the use of twin analogue dials (hidden here underneath a blacked-out cover) with a large central multi-info display, although a fully-digital screen will likely be offered as an option to compete with the Mercedes A-Class‘ huge twin screens.
Meanwhile, the centre iDrive display is large but strangely still uses the previous-generation iDrive 6.0 interface, rather than the newer version 7.0 found on the latest BMW models. Expect that to change when the car enters production.
The exterior of this M135i xDrive mule is as we’ve seen in previous spyshots, although last month’s leaked images have already provided us with the full picture of what the car will look like. Prominent design details include a large conjoined double kidney grille, trapezoidal headlights with three-dimensional “corona ring” daytime running lights and a broad front air intake flanked by a pair of vertical inlets.
At the back, there are trademark L-shaped tail lights and a sizeable rear diffuser with twin round tailpipes. Under the skin, the 1 Series rides on a new FAAR (Frontantriebsarchitektur, or front-wheel drive architecture) platform, offering more interior space and a new, more advanced traction control system from the i3s. It will also gain a new M135i variant that adds all-wheel drive and a 2.0 litre turbo petrol mill making 306 hp.
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This F40 BMW 1 Series surely well appointed with a price tag circa RM180k.
Maybe for the 118i.
fwd junk
I wonder if the interior quality is as good as the G20 or not..hope it is