The new BMW 1 Series is now out and deliveries are bound to kick off in the near future. The car is drastically different compared to its predecessor, and now just from a design perspective. Compared to the F2x generation, the new model is now based on a front-wheel drive platform. Therefore, the new 1 Series is different from the way it drives to the design.
Continue Reading Below
Front-wheel drive cars are preferred by car makers for their simpler packaging. They can offer more space for the occupants within the same exterior dimensions. However, they do come with certain limitations too. In the video below, BMW goes over the differences between the two. Starting with the design, the new model is claimed to be looking more ‘modern’ using few but precise lines. Then there’s then bigger kidney grille, which is highlighted here as a pro, but it’s become pretty obvious not everyone agrees.
Inside the cabin the changes are even bigger. The new model comes with a fresh design that’s more in tune with the times. The F2x models were starting to show their age. Yet, some still prefer the analogue dials in the old version though. There’s more room inside the new 1 Series too and the materials used are supposedly of better quality. Also, you now get ambient lighting and a new design for the center console.
It’s pretty clear that we’re in for a completely different ride in the new 1 Series. BMW had to move to a front-wheel drive platform, it wasn’t really up to debate. Whether the new model will become a success or not, remains to be seen. What’s abundantly clear is that the competition is fierce. The A-Class and A3 models are incredibly worthy opponents.
bmw know people dont like the new design
bmw don’t care
True, most people buy the badge and don’t know much about anything, except that it’s shiny and has a few gadgets. This, the salesmen strongly implied, when I asked a few questions and displayed a semblance of knowledge. He said some didn’t even drive the car once before buying.
The sweet stench of desperation
Speak for urself, fella. Oh. u were…
He’s speaking for anyone who doesn’t blindly defend every move BMW makes.
I’m old, I remember the hate 320i got for replacing 2002 tii. That was 7 generations ago.
I have never before seen an official manufacturer video comparing their new product to their old one. They might mention how the new one is improved in performance over the old one (which this new 1 Series fails miserably at LMAO) but they certainly don’t compare styling- which is completely subjective- and try and pass off the new (ugly) styling as better.
Never seen such desperation before.
My only complaint about new 1 Series is it’s not coming to my market. For the decades I’ve followed BMW, they have expanded by going into new segments, they’ve been doing it for over 1/2 a century. Just as original 7 Series went after S-Class, this now puts BMW toe to toe with VW Golf, Civic, Mercedes compact fwd. 4 cyl. New 2 Series will be actual successor to previous 1, desperation is drawing conclusions without even seeing it.
Despite this coming from the corporate site, it’s a false equivalency. As you cite, neuer 1er competes with other volume fwd. 4 cyl. compacts. Neuer 2er replaces outgoing 1er.
BMW had to make this video that focus on looks since every other source states the outgoing 1 series being superior in driving dynamics / performance… Just look at car wow, which is the driver’s perspective. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBI8iBOWwHQ
People do buy the badge. I bought the old 1 series. It’s boring and really isn’t good to drive, but it feels more interesting that other family hatchbacks. This one is too much, though: it’s like they’re trying to make their cars as ugly as possible. I like BMW but I ordered a CLA.
New CLA is a good car by all accounts. Looks good too.
Ridiculous video which hammers BMW’s credibility.
Really really hope this pos falls flat on its arse.
A missed opportunity by throwing away some of the BMW 1 Series DNA which should have been nurtured by BMW management. But perhaps BMW have bigger plans for the 1 series like EV etc. in China. But for me the 1 series change its rather like putting the engine in the front of a Porsche 911 and going front wheel drive. The rear wheel drive BMW 1 series was so driftable rather like a 911 Porsche :-)