If you were having hopes for a mini-sized BMW, we have some bad news. No new model to slot below the 1 Series is considered at the moment. The 1 Series is set to remain the smallest BMW in production, as the Bavarians have recently dismissed the chances for a mini-sized model. Cited by Autocar, Peter Heinrich, responsible for BMW Products, has confirmed the brand is in no need to offer a sub-1 Series model, as it would cause an overlapping with the existing MINI Cooper.
As MINI already fulfills the task of a city car choice within the BMW Group, launching a mini-sized model from the core brand BMW would be pointless at the moment. Heinrich also argued that there would be no client demand for such an offering and, if ever greenlighted, it could some damage to the premium image of BMW.
As BMW is comfortable with MINI to compete with other similars-sized models, the Bavarians could further strengthen up the 1 Series lineup and solidify its position in the premium compact class, without the need of extra models to slot below.
According to a recent report, the current 1 Series is set to have a short lifecycle of up to 5 years, with no LCI procedure planned. But that has yet to be confirmed. By 2025, a new generation is expected to come into force, underpinned by an all new modular platform, which could house a variety of powertrain means, from ICE to plug-in hybrid and pure electric.
Given the ongoing electric model offensive from BMW, some rumors are indicating a possibility for a future i1-like all-electric compact car launching in 2021.
Yet, at the moment, given the alleged short lifecycle of the F40 generation it is still unclear if the current model will be eventually be the base for the electric 1 Series.
PMSL at them talking about “damage to the premium image of BMW”.
MINI as a brand is valued over Ferrari.
Really?! Well I guess Mini drivers can feel suitably smug and superior whenever a La Ferrari is parked nearby then.
When’s the last time you saw a LaFerrari on the road? Let alone next to a LaMini.
A 3 door 1 series option would be a good way of offering a slightly smaller option without ruining the BMW image while also slightly improving performance.
They have currently ruined the 1 series, what more can they ruin?
Let’s see the sales after a year. THen we draw the line to see if their bet paid off
Well.. only if they actually made it smaller. Previous 3-door 1 series were just as big as the 5-door.
The damage is already done by putting the 1 on that crippled Mini platform!!!
They literally cannot go below the 1 series. Calling it the 0 series sounds and looks wrong.
The current new FAAR platform can now produce plug in hybrid or fully electric. BMW don’t need a new platform.
The 2 Grand coupe, the new X1 2021 and the new active tourer 2021 stand on the new FAAR platform like the 1 series.
True, but they will likely improve that platform
BMW could bring the 1-series to the United States. I have never heard the reason why , has anyone else. I also wished bmwusa gave us more individual options instead of packages!
They won’t sell. People want big cars here.