The BMW 1-Series range is up for a facelift, set to arrive soon after the new generations of the related 2-Series Active Tourer and X1. Our spy photographers caught two prototypes of the facelifted five-door hatch in both regular and M135i xDrive guises, while giving us the first look inside the cabin as well. The update 1-Series made its spy debut last February, with the M135i xDrive hot hatch variant following in April. The camouflage manages to hide most of the details, but we can still see the new face including more rounded headlights, a new grille, and redesigned front and rear bumpers for a fresh look. The entry-level trims of the facelifted 1-Series do not have visible exhausts, unlike the M135i xDrive which features quad exhaust pipes.

Naturally, the lesser variants have a different bodykit from the hotter M135i, which can easily be distinguished by the larger diameter wheels and the quad tailpipes. The latter will be a common feature among all new models of the M Performance line, despite being previously reserved for full-blown M cars. More importantly, the 1-Series will benefit from the addition of the BMW Curved Display, or in other words the Bavarian automaker’s latest digital cockpit. The similar 2-Series Active Tourer has a 10.7-inch infotainment touchscreen with the iDrive8 software and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster which will likely be inherited by the five-door hatchback. The center console is redesigned with a new type of gearbox selector, and the omission of the cylindrical BMW Drive control.

 

Besides the styling tweaks and new tech upgrades inside, the facelift is also expected to bring more ADAS features, borrowed from larger BMW models. The third generation of BMW’s compact hatchback that is based on the UKL-FAAR platform since 2019, will most likely get a revised chassis setup and cleaner engines, although there is still no information on the specs.

BMW could expand its plug-in-hybrid range with a new variant of the 1-Series, similar to the xDrive25e of the outgoing X1. A fully electric i1 has been rumored since 2019, but there are no signs of an EV prototype yet. However, the upcoming BMW iX1 proves that the platform is compatible with zero-emission powertrains. In any case, the M135i xDrive, will remain the top of the range in terms of performance. The current version is fitted with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 302 hp, while an eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels.

The facelifted BMW 1-Series range is expected to launch in 2023. Until then, we will keep an eye for more spy shots of prototypes that will start shedding their camouflage as we move closer to the debut. Interestingly, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class which is the strongest rival of the BMW 1-Series alongside the Audi A3, is also up for a facelift very soon.