BMW 1 Series 2020 specifications leaked: Two-variant range to open local line-up

BMW’s new-generation 1 Series will land in Australian showrooms in the fourth quarter this year in two flavours, 118i and M135i xDrive guise, with pricing expected to come in at around $45,000 before on-road costs for the former and $60,000 for the latter.

Though an official confirmation is still forthcoming, CarsGuide has seen documentation confirming specification for both the entry-level, front-wheel drive 118i and flagship all-paw M135i hot hatch.

While the 118i is expected to step up significantly from the outgoing version’s $38,990 pricetag, the changeover to new-generation form will come with a substantial lift in equipment and technology.

The new-generations feature upgrades in equipment and technology.

Standard equipment in the 118i will include 18-inch M alloy wheels, an M Sport exterior styling package and LED headlights, while inside, two 10.25-inch screens – one for instrumentation and the other for multimedia – are fitted, along with a head-up display and illuminated trim finishers.

Powering the 118i is a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine (shared the entry-level X1 and X2 SUVs, as well as the Mini Cooper) producing 103kW of power from 4200-6500rpm and 220Nm of torque from 1480-4600rpm, which is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

With drive sent to the front wheels, the 0-100km/h acceleration takes 8.5 seconds.

For comparison, the outgoing 118i produces 100kW/220Nm from the same engine configuration, which is sent to the rear wheels.

Meanwhile, the top-spec M135i’s expected $60,000 price will place it lineball with its $59,990 M40i predecessor, as well as competitive against the $65,800 Audi S3 and incoming Mercedes-AMG A35.

Though engine outputs are down from 250kW/500Nm to 225kW/450Nm – due to a switch from a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six to a 2.0-litre force-fed four powerplant – the new-generation M135i will sport all-wheel-drive traction instead of being rear driven.

Drive will be channelled through an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, enabling a 0-100km/h sprint in 4.8sec.

There will only be petrol powered vehicles available in Australia.

The top-spec M135i will add 19-inch Cerium Grey-coloured wheels, keyless entry, automatic climate control, adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assist, leather upholstery and an uprated harman/kardon sound system.

A smattering of M Sport goodies are also fitted, such as brakes, steering wheel, seats and rear spoiler.

Although the 1 Series is available with a choice of five engines overseas, BMW Australia has opted for petrol-only power for its new small hatchback.

CarsGuide understands more variants will launch next year to bolster the 1 Series range, but the bulk of sales are expected from the 118i and M135i xDrive versions.

Have BMW loaded the 1 Series with enough tech to peak your interest? Tell us what you think in the comments below.