The new BMW 1 Series can come with all-wheel drive

IN ITS third-generation form the BMW 1 Series retains the brand’s trademark agility and performance while getting sharper looks, a roomier cabin and a “raft of cutting-edge technologies,” BMW said.

Well, this is no PR speak; the new 1 Series did receive a system from the BMW’s electric i3s. And versions of the latest model now also pack all-wheel drive.

But another huge change is that the rest of the 1 Series range is now front-wheel drive.

A transfer of technology meant the new 1 Series features the actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation (ARB) system found in the i3s — the first time the thing sees duty in a combustion-engine car. BMW explained ARB “significantly” improves traction when the car is pulling away from a stop, and when it is cornering on wet roads. The system works with DSC to reduce power understeer.
BMW added the DSC system’s propulsion-optimized Dynamic Traction Control setting can be engaged, allowing more slip at the driven wheels, resulting in a “sportier” driving style.
ARB and BMW Performance Control can both be fitted to the 120d xDrive and the M135i xDrive variants. The carmaker said xDrive is an “intelligent” all-wheel drive system that can split drive power 50:50 if necessary.

Along with all-wheel drive, the M135i xDrive also has a newly developed mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential, lending the car an even sportier edge. The differential is integrated into an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission that has a launch control mode.

BMW said the latest 1 Series has a number of design changes. These include new headlights, a more wedged-shaped silhouette, a pronounced “shark nose” and a larger kidney grille. The car’s sides have a longer greenhouse enhanced by character lines that run below the door handles from the front wheels to the rear wings, and on the lower part of the front door going toward the rear quarter.

Compared to the previous model the new 1 Series is shorter, but is wider and taller. Its wheelbase has also shrunk 20 millimeters. A stubbier hood helped create a roomier cabin, BMW said.

But the biggest factor in the increased interior space is the 1 Series’ shift to a front-wheel drive layout; the transversely mounted engines and a lower center tunnel resulted in more space inside the car. BMW said this is especially true in the backseat, which has also become more easily accessed because of the added 33 millimeters of kneeroom available. Rear headroom is also up by 19 millimeters and elbowroom by 13 millimeters. Luggage capacity grows 20 liters more to 380 liters (1,200 liters with the backseat folded down).

BMW said the new 1 Series’ cockpit remains driver-oriented. A control display flaunts touch operation, and all driving functions are clustered together in one area. This includes the iDrive Touch Controller used to operate the infotainment system.

Upon launch the new 1 Series is offered in a choice of three-cylinder and four-cylinder engines, three of which are diesel and two are gasoline. BMW said improvements in the power units’ efficiency have resulted in higher real-world fuel economy and lower exhaust emissions. Performance has also been enhanced. Leading the lineup is the new engine for the M135i xDrive, which with a 190hp and 400Nm output is now the BMW Group’s most powerful four-cylinder engine.

A host of infotainment and driver-assist systems round out the features of the new 1 Series models.

BMW said the new car goes on sale starting in September.