Achieving a 50:50 Front-Rear Weight Distribution

The new BMW 1 Series, while adopting the same rear-wheel-drive layout as its predecessor, achieves an ideal 50:50 front-rear weight distribution. In addition to refining BMW's signature agile handling, comfort has also been enhanced through the optimization of suspension technology.

The exterior design inherits the characteristic FR layout form from the previous model, with a long nose and a cabin shifted towards the rear. The deeply sculpted character lines on the body sides are also a carryover. However, the new model presents a fresh look with a slightly forward-leaning, large kidney grille, its three-dimensional surrounding surfaces, and headlights accented with LED lines. The taillights also feature L-shaped LED illumination.

The body size has increased by 95mm in length, 15mm in width, and 40mm in height compared to the previous model. Simultaneously, the wheelbase has been extended by 30mm, resulting in approximately a 20mm increase in rear seat legroom compared to the previous model, improving rear passenger comfort.

Unified by a Newly Developed 1.6-Liter Direct-Injection Turbo Engine

While the previous model offered a total of three engine types (1.4-liter & 2-liter inline-4, and 3-liter inline-6), this model is unified by a newly developed 1.6-liter inline-4 DOHC direct-injection turbo engine. Through BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, which combines twin-scroll turbocharging, high-precision direct injection, Double VANOS, and Valvetronic, it achieves both high performance and low fuel consumption (low emissions).

Specifically, the 116i produces a maximum output of 100kW (136ps) at 4,400-6,450rpm and a maximum torque of 220Nm (22.4kgm) at 1,350-4,300rpm, while the 120i produces a maximum output of 125kW (170ps) at 4,800-6,450rpm and a maximum torque of 250Nm (25.5kgm) at 1,500-4,500rpm. A characteristic of this new engine is its ability to deliver maximum torque across a wide RPM range, starting from low revs.


The transmission is an 8-speed automatic, a first in its class. By adopting features such as the Auto Start/Stop function for the engine, brake energy regeneration system, and electric power steering, fuel efficiency has been improved by 24% for the 116i, while simultaneously increasing maximum output by 11% and maximum torque by 38%.

All Models Eligible for Eco-Car Tax Reduction

Furthermore, a new ECO PRO mode has been added to the Driving Performance Control, which allows the driver to change driving modes with a switch. When this mode is selected, engine response and shift timing are set for fuel efficiency, and the operation of systems like the air conditioning is controlled efficiently. The system also displays information on driving operations that improve fuel economy and the resulting extension of driving range, enabling drivers to enjoy driving while achieving further fuel savings.


Through the adoption of these numerous new technologies, all models achieve the "FY2010 Fuel Economy Standards +25%" and "Heisei 17 Emission Standards 75% Reduction Level (★★★★ Low-Emission Vehicle)" certifications, qualifying them for the eco-car tax reduction.


In addition to the standard model, the new 1 Series introduces "Design Lines," which differentiate the design through exclusive exterior/interior parts and special equipment. Customers can choose between two types: "Sport," emphasizing a sportier look, and "Style," focusing on design aesthetics.


Prices range from 3.08 million yen for the 116i to 3.87 million yen for the 120i Sport and Style models.