BMW teases new-generation 1-Series

The German brand has issued a series of images of the five-door hatchback undergoing final evaluation testing at its Miramas proving ground in southern France, and limited details of its mechanical package.

It confirms the brand will switch its smallest car from today's rear-drive configuration to a more conventional front-drive set-up, using the same basic platform that underpins the 2-Series Active Tourer as well as all variants in the Mini line-up.

The move, according to BMW, will result in the 1-Series offering a "major leap forward" in interior space with rear legroom, for example, increased by 33mm, rear headroom improved by 19mm and boot capacity expanded to 380L.

It also says it will "set new standards" of driving dynamics with what it describes as a cutting-edge "boomerang strut" rear suspension set-up and the first use of ARB technology with a combustion engine. Originally developed for the all-electric i3 commuter car, ARB (actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation) is an advanced form of stability control system that is housed within the engine management system, rather than a separate body control computer, which BMW says increases information flow three times faster to "significantly reduce power understeer usually experienced with front-wheel drive vehicles."

While it has yet divulge details of the full range of powertrain options available, the range-topping M135i xDrive will be powered by the company's most powerful four-cylinder engine, with a new-generation 2.0-litre turbo charged motor that produces 225kW with a combined fuel consumption of 6.8L/100km.

Lower-grade versions are expected to feature the 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder engine commonly used in Mini variants, while plug-in hybrid and fully-electric models are under development and will be released later in the model cycle.

While the camouflaged images provide little in the way of detail in terms of its visual identity, it appears as though the five-door hatch features a wedge-shaped profile with a belt-line that rises from the low front-end through the window line while the rear hatch is heavily raked and shrouded by a integrated roof spoiler.

More information will be revealed on the 2019 BMW 1-Series ahead of its official debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September with the car expected to launch in Australia early in 2020.