2012 BMW 1-Series images leaked before unveiling

Images of the 2012 BMW 1-series have been leaked on the internet and the model could likely hit Indian shores in the next couple of years.

Soon after the photos were leaked, BMW released all details of the upcoming 1-series ahead of its scheduled unveiling at the Frankfurt Auto Show this year.

The 1-series has been built on the BMW 3-series platform and has a spacious cabin thanks to the 2.69 m long wheelbase. The 1-series has an upright front grille with sharp-looking headlamps reminiscent of its elder siblings like the 5-series and 7-series sedans.

The 1-series is a small car and has a far more contemporary design when compared to the current 1-series models sold abroad. Overall, the new 1-series will now be more appealing to its target buyers. Following the launch of the 1-series hatchback, BMW will likely launch the coupe version as well.

On the inside, the upcoming 1-series gets a central console with a standard 6.5 inch iDrive display panel that was introduced in the 6-series sedan. The 8.8 inch iDrive display panel will be available as a optional feature. The instrument cluster has dials with chrome rims and the fit and finish is at par with BMW’s other premium sedans.

The 1-series will be powered by a 1.6 litre, 4-cylinder inline petrol engines that will produce power ranging from 136hp to 300 hp depending on the variant. We expect the 2.0 litre diesel engines for the 1-series to make power ranging from 116 hp to 184 hp once again depending on the variant.

The engines will be mated to either a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission. In order to improve the mileage of the car, BMW has equipped the 1-series with a selectable driving mode system that will allow driver to choose between ‘Eco’ mode for saving fuel or ‘Sport’ mode for those who wish to harness the full potential of the car.

The price of the BMW 1-series will likely be around 22,200 Euro (approx 15 lakh) and in India, the cost could go up to Rs. 19 – 20 lakh after adding excise duty as the vehicle will likely be assembled locally.

A few weeks ago, CarToq had reported that BMW India is actively considering a launch of the 1 series luxury sedans and MINI brand of cars in India to tap in the demand for luxury cars below Rs. 20 lakh.

Backed mainly by the brand image, the launch of BMW’s cheapest product, the X1 will help pull volumes for the company. Related: BMW 1-Series and Mini served hot

When launched, BMW 1-seres will take on the Audi’s upcoming A1 model and the next-generation A-Class model from Mercedes Benz.