BMW 1-Series GT unveil at Paris show

BMW Blog says car will be a front-wheel-drive car like the Mini.

Just as BMW refers to its SUVs as SAVs (Sports Activity Vehicles), it is apparently referring to the 1 Series Gran Turismo as a Compact Activity Tourer (CAT) and will be the first of many front-wheel-drive BMWs, says the blog.

BMW Australia spokesman Piers Scott says they have "no information on such a car at this stage".

"But we definitely do have exciting new concepts to be revealed in the compact class within the next 12 months," he says.

The blog says the CAT will follow a 3 Series GT PAC, or Progressive Activity Coupe. The 3GT is allegedly sleeker than the frumpy 5 Series GT with less rear glass area.

The CAT is claimed to be powered by turbocharged three- and four-cylinder turbo engines, plus hybrid and have all-wheel-drive (xDrive) versions.

With its higher driving position it would possibly compete against the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, but that seems strange as the B-Class has been an under-achiever, particularly here. 

The blog says the car will hit showrooms in 2014.