Introducing the 2012 BMW 1 Series

With BMW's premiere of the new BMW 1 Series, it is clear that this 5-door compact is a cut above the rest. Remaining the only rear-wheel drive model in its class, the new BMW 1 Series is even more sporty, comfortable, fuel-efficient, and driver-friendly than its predecessor.

The exterior of the BMW 1 Series with its youthful design and striking angles creates the sporty, lively look of this compact. The front of the car displays the classic BMW kidney grille and double-round headlights combined with four contour lines on the bonnet that direct attention to the dramatic front. The roof slopes slightly towards the rear with its angled back windscreen, presenting a coupe-like design. The angular style of the BMW 1 Series makes it a sports compact unlike any other.

This sporty design does not get in the way of comfort, however. The new BMW 1 Series remains the same height as its predecessor but is 85 millimeters longer and 17 millimeters wider, providing a more spacious interior while keeping the powerful look of the exterior intact. It also offers more legroom and storage space.

All engines in the 2012 BMW 1 Series are four-cylinder models which utilize BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The TwinPower Turbo engine maximizes fuel efficiency while boosting responsiveness and performance. The car's four cylinders enhance driving dynamics through increased maximum speeds and torque. The new BMW 1 Series is also the first and only car in its class to be optionally available with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing yet another way to increase fuel-efficiency. This technology combines the speed of a sports car with the fuel efficiency of a compact.

The BMW 1 Series focuses on the driver experience, offering several personalized engine, model, and design options. Firstly, Buyers can choose from five model versions: the BMW 118i, BMW 116i, BMW 120d, BMW 118d, and BMW 116d. The BMW 120d, 118d, and 116d models offer lower fuel consumption and emit the least amounts of CO2 while still reaching maximum speeds of 142, 132, and 125 MPH.

For an even more personalized touch, buyers can choose from two exclusive interior and exterior design features: the BMW Sport Line or the BMW Urban Line. The BMW Sport Line consists of 16-inch light-alloy star-spoke wheels, high-gloss black exterior and interior trim, leather sports steering wheel with red stitching, and sports seats. The BMW Urban Line offers 16-inch V-spoke alloy wheels, white exterior trim, acrylic glass interior trim available in white or black, and orange and LED blue ambient and courtesy lights.

The interior design provides elegance and comfort for the driver. The interior display and controls are angled for optimal driver use and the center console is ergonomically designed to be at maximum visibility. Keyless ignition, power adjustable and heated seats, electric sunroof, and BMW Business radio and CD with six speakers come standard with every BMW 1 Series model.

The standard safety features also ensure comfort and control for the driver. Front, side and head airbags, three-point automatic seatbelts, and crumple zones with defined load paths have improved the crash test performance of the BMW 1 Series. The drive is not only smoother and more dynamic, but also safer.

The new BMW 1 Series is more than just another compact car. It embodies the style and appeal of a sports car, the convenience and comfort of fuel efficiency, and the elegance and exclusivity of a personalized vehicle.