Spy photographers spotted the next generation BMW 1 Series during the winter testing in Arctic Driving Center in Rovaniemi, FinlandBMW. With a launch date set for early 2011, BMW continues the development and testing of the new, redesigned 1 Series, a model that has been described by people with knowledge of the product as being more revolutionary than its predecessors.
Built on a new modular platform that allows BMW to expand its 1 Series lineup, the new approach will allow BMW to reduce its productions costs. 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.
Several 1 Series models are being considered, starting with the “regular” hatch, the coupe and continuing with a 3-door touring and even a possible GT. The high-end model is rumored to be a 135i Supersport, a vehicle with M-like capabilities, but without carrying the M badge. The Supersport will be limited to the Coupe body style and it will use lightweight materials, such as Carbon Fiber Roof, hood or bootlid, lightweight glass.
BMW will offer four cylinder turbo charged engines in line with the next generation 3er across the world. Six cylinder options will still be available. 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 next generation 1 Series will be unveiled in 2011 at one of the major auto shows.
[Source: Spyshots ]
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/12/11/2011- ... r-testing/