The next-generation BMW 1 Series is expected to make its public debut at some point this year, and the company’s local product boss is hinting at a reinvigorated lineup that will go hard on value.
“The current car is a cracking little car, but I think our focus [for the new one] will be pricing and specs,” Brendan Michel, head of product and market planning for BMW Australia told CarExpert.
“We’ve already started working on it, and hopefully everyone is very pleasantly surprised when we announce [the details].”
‘F70’ 1 Series prototype
Like the related 2 Series Active Tourer as well as the X1 and X2 before it, the 2025 BMW 1 Series should be in for a pretty significant generational overhaul that will be big on tech, utilising the existing UKL2 front-drive platform.
Expect the main changes to be a move to BMW Operating System 9.0 for the infotainment software, which runs new Google-based software rather than the Linux-based interface of existing models.
This new infotainment setup allows for more digital and app-based features and services, namely access to a growing number of add-ons via the Google Play store.
You can also bank on the ‘F70’ 1 Series offering BMW’s latest suite of driver assistance systems, as well as electrified powertrains – 48V mild-hybrid petrol and diesel options are expected, with plug-in hybrid and battery electric versions anticipated at some point too.
BimmerPost forum user ynguldyn – who claims to compile leaks from sources within BMW – recently published specifications of the new-generation hatchback; also noting an electric i1 will enter production in March 2028.
The wheelbase of the new 1 Series will reportedly remain unchanged at 2670mm, suggesting this ‘new’ model could feature a heavily revised version of the current car’s UKL2 platform.
Currently in Australia, the 1 Series is offered in 118i, 128ti and M135i xDrive derivatives. Diesel versions are also available in select overseas markets, but there’s no electrification offered currently.
Pricing starts from $54,800 before on-road costs for the base 118i M Sport, and climbs to $76,700 plus on-roads for the M135i xDrive flagship.
Current ‘F40’ 1 Series
Going by Mr Michel’s comments, BMW Australia could be looking to sharpen its pencils to keep closer to the current Audi A3’s $50,600 base price. It’s already well under the $61,900 starting point of the current Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
Otherwise we could see the 1 Series retain similar price positioning but include a higher level of standard equipment. As it stands, the current 118i lacks items like adaptive cruise control and leatherette seats as standard.
Further details will come to light in due course, and the new 1 Series is expected to also be followed by an overhauled 2 Series Gran Coupe – stay tuned to CarExpert for the latest.
MORE: Everything BMW 1 Series
