New BMW 1-series revealed with fresh looks and more features

BMW has given its 1 Series hatchback a significant mid-lift refresh, bringing a fresh look, new interiors, and more equipment. In addition, the petrol models no longer come with the ‘i’ suffix, and select markets, like the UK, will not be getting the diesel variants.

1. BMW 1 Series gets sleeker-looking front end
2. Gets BMW’s 20-inch Curved display for infotainment and driver display duties
3. Available in 118d, 120, 120d and M135 xDrive variants

BMW 1 Series: 2024 exterior changes

While BMW calls it the fourth-generation 1 Series, this is essentially the third-gen model (which was revealed in 2019, just five years ago) as the basic underpinnings remain unchanged. The biggest change is that new face. It is lowered, slimmed and given a more angular design for a commanding and sporty road presence, the German brand said.

The tooth-like kidney grilles have also gone, replaced by something more akin to the 3 Series. The new grille gets a touch of modernisation, too, with the design featuring diagonal bars at its edges. M Sport trims and the range-topping M135 xDrive feature a more simplistic, horizontal, blacked-out grille design.

In comparison, the rear of the 1 Series has had little work done. There’s a new two-part tail-light and a lowered bumper (in a black diffuser-style design on M Sport models). These changes have lengthened the car by a modest 42mm to 4,361mm. Its other dimensions remain unchanged.

BMW 1 Series: 2024 interior changes

Inside is where most of the work has been done. The headline change is the arrival of the BMW’s 20-inch Curved Display. Controlled by BMW’s OS 9 software, it incorporates both the digital instrument display and infotainment system. The number of physical buttons has been drastically slashed, including those for the climate control. This, as with most of the car's comfort controls, can now be found within the infotainment touchscreen. Materials inside have also been upgraded, with Alcantara available in M Sport models. Meanwhile, new seats are said to offer better comfort over longer distances.

BMW 1 Series: 2024 powertrain options

While the UK market will only have mild-hybrid petrol engine options – the 170hp 120 and the 300hp M135 xDrive – other European markets will also have mild-hybrid diesels in the form of the 150hp 118d and 163hp 120d. A 7-speed dual-clutch is standard across the 1 Series range. Naturally, only the M135 gets the xDrive AWD tech, while the other variants are front-wheel drive only. 

It should be noted that the 1 Series is the first of the BMWs to drop the 'i' suffix for its petrol variants; the nomenclature changes from the previous '120i' and 'M135i' to just '120' and 'M135', respectively. 

BMW 1 Series in India

This heavily updated 1 Series is unlikely to make it to India, though BMW did have the second-gen model – which had a front-engine (1.6-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel options), rear-wheel-drive configuration – on sale in the country from 2013 to 2017. However, the design changes seen on the hatchback are likely to be seen for the most part on the upcoming BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe facelift, which is expected to come to the Indian market after it is revealed abroad.

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