BMW 1 Series 2019: spy shots, price, specs and release

BMW is kicking off 2019 by ramping up testing and development of its new 1 Series hatchback, which is expected to arrive later this year.

Eagle-eyed photographers have snapped a camouflage-wrapped test car in Germany, giving fans a detailed look at the updated design.

The images, posted by Auto Express, make it clear that the new 1 Series will adopt a similar front-end design to BMW’s latest models. This includes the larger kidney grille and angular LED headlights.

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It seems the new 1 Series is slightly larger than the outgoing model when viewed from the side, while the rear end seems lower and wider than before. It’s an almost identical design to its competitors, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Audi A3.

Interior details are scarce at the moment, but expect BMW to give the cabin a high-tech makeover with a digital dashboard and a more touchscreen-focused centre console.

When will it come out?

Auto Express expects the 1 Series to go on sale “towards the end of the year”. This suggests BMW may take the wraps off the new hatchback at the Frankfurt Motor Show, running from 12 to 22 September.

How much will it cost?

It will be some time before BMW announces official pricing for the 1 Series. Given that the new model doesn’t appear to be a significant departure from its predecessor, expect the next 1 Series to cost slightly more than the old version’s £23,050 price tag.

How is it different to the last 1 Series?

BMW is building the new 1 Series on the same production platform as the X1 and X2 SUVs, as well as the Mini range, says Auto Express. It means that, for the first time, the 1 Series will not be rear-wheel drive, a layout favoured by its biggest fans.

Instead, the 1 Series will be front-wheel drive, allowing BMW to free up more room in the cabin and boot, the magazine adds.

Buyers should expect “a variety of three- and four-cylinder turbocharged engines” under the bonnet, which will be paired to either an automatic or manual transmission, Evo reports.

Faster M40i models are tipped to drop the old model’s six-cylinder engine in favour of a “highly tuned” turbocharged four-cylinder motor and a four-wheel drive system, the motoring mag continues.