BMW to offer new 1-Series in six bodystyles by 2019

2012 BMW 1 Series

BMW is planning to expand its line-up of the 1-Series hatchback to no more than six body styles by 2019. The automaker recently revealed the second generation 1-Series, five-door hatchback. The new car shares underpinnings from the 3-Series sedan. BMW intends to flood the market with various options for customers who are looking for an affordable and efficient car. The list includes a coupe as well as convertible versions based on the new 1-Series.

The BMW 1-Series competes with the Mercedes Benz A-Class and the Audi A3 at present. Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen are also coming out with the next generation A-Class and Golf hatchbacks by next year. BMW offering of a varied choice for customers to choose from could jeopardize the German’s plans though. BMW has revealed the five door version of the hatchback this year with a rear-wheel-drive setup. An all-wheel drive 1-Series is also on cards. The 3 -door version will soon follow.

2012 BMW 1 Series

By 2013, BMW plans to introduce a coupe and convertible model of the 1-Series which will be rear-wheel drive and will be named as the 2-Series mainly to differentiate it from the 1-Series hatchback. Expect more powerful engines to feature in the sportier coupe and convertible versions. A 3.0 litre, 6 -cylinder engine is what could go under the hood of the 2-Series coupled to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

A saloon variant of the 2-Series is also being considered for growing markets of Asia which means, India could well might be on the list of countries to get the 2-Series saloon. As Audi is also coming with the A3 sedan, BMW could respond to this with their very own 2 Series saloon which could be priced competitively. The other juicy version that BMW is pondering is a Crossover and GT version of the 1-Series. The GT version would be based on a front-wheel drive platform which will also be shared with the Mini. An estate version is also on cards that will take on the Audi A3 Sportback.

Via Autocar

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