Details Revealed On Next-Gen BMW 1-Series

car magazine has apparently stumbled upon the next-generation 1-Series' spec sheet, revealing that the new model will be powered by a range of smaller, thriftier engines and make use of the latest twin-clutch gearbox technology.

The base model 116i will feature a turbocharged 1.3 litre petrol four, which will develop 101kW and have a six-speed manual transmission as standard. Next up the ladder is a 137kW version of the same turbo four-pot followed by a 163kW 2.0 litre motor, with BMW's venerable 3.0 litre straight-six sitting at the top of the petrol motor lineup.

Diesel lovers will be able to choose from a 112, 137 or 157kW version of the same 2.0 litre oil-burner, which will sport either one or two turbochargers depending on specification. Like the petrol engines, a six-speed manual is the default transmission for the diesels, with a trick seven-speed twin-clutch unit an optional extra.

A hi-po M1 model isn't on the cards for now, but rumour has it that a 221kW twin-turbo 2.2 litre engine may find its way into a carbon-fibre bodied variant of the new 1-Series. Let's hope that one sees the light of day...

Bodystyles will mimic those of the current 1-Series range, with five and three door hatches as well as a coupe and cabriolet all slated for production. A three-door shooting brake model may also eventuate, should BMW's top brass see a place for it in the lineup.

A hybrid model could also find its way into Bimmer showrooms, which will build on BMW's new EfficientDynamics technology and possibly also feature a money-saving plug-in charging system.

Expected to launch halfway through 2011, the new 1-Series is still a fair way off.

Styling, natch, still has a big question-mark hovering over it. These artist's renderings will just have to tide us over until we hear more about BMW's next-gen volume seller. We'll keep you posted.

[car, via World Car Fans]