Winter testing sessions are well underway and BMW continues to test a wide range of vehicles in less than attractive weather. Using the internal code F20, the next generation 1 Series hatchback was spotted during one of these sessions.
As seen in the spy shot below, the F20 prototype continues to sport the now famous psychedelic camouflage making it hard for us to see the design lines prepared by BMW. The new BMW 1 Series hatchback model will feature a slightly longer wheelbase and wider track than the current model. It will be available in three and five door variants with both models using the new modular/expendable platform. The backbone of these models was designed especially for this purpose so every model can have a variation backbone, simply be moving suspension points and firewalls to areas that will benefit each vehicle. Corroborated with more parts sharing, this new approach will allow BMW to reduce even more the production costs.
Even though the engine line-up has not been finalized, sources indicate many new three and four turbo engines will be used across the 1 Series models, from a 1.3 liter engine with 136 horsepower to a new 1.3-liter turbo powerplant developing 177 hp. At the high-end of the line-up, the 135i will be using the N55 Twin-Scroll engine. Diesel and hybrid versions are going to be available as well.
One of the engine that will most likely be featured in a 1 Series vehicle is the three cylinder hybrid one found in the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept.
The rumor mill says BMW is looking into more 1er variants, from a 3-door touring, 3 and 5-door GT, to five-door hatchback and a 3-door Coupe and Convertible.
The new BMW 1 Series Hatchback is scheduled to be unveiled in 2011.
[Source: MotorAuthority ]
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/01/20/spy-s ... r-testing/