The updated 2017 BMW 1 Series has been revealed this
week, bringing subtle changes and upgrades to the premium small hatch’s
line-up, ahead of a global launch schedule that kicks off from July.
It appears the upgrades are reserved for the
interior – unless you’re opting for the ‘black pack’ themed ‘Shadow’ special
editions, which add an array of dark trim highlights.
Headlining the upgrades for the core range include a
new, more driver-focused instrument panel, a black panel instrument cluster,
contrasting stitching depending on variant, and a sliding cover for the front
cup holders. Various trim and material upgrades help to give the 1 Series a
more upmarket feel, including more chrome highlights, a new Cognac colour for
the Dakota leather trim of higher variants.
Also updated for 2017 is the iDrive infotainment
system, which now features an in-built SIM card and ConnectedDrive services as
standard. Some of these extended net-based features include concierge services,
real-time traffic information with hazard preview, and access to the BMW
Connected smartphone app – where users can track vehicle information and
remotely lock/unlock their vehicle via their mobile device.
Optional features
in overseas markets include a WiFi hotspot and Apple CarPlay, along with the
larger Navigation Professional system – which also adds a touchscreen for the
8.8-inch display.
The updated range also adds new driver assistance
options such as adaptive cruise control with stop/go function, lane departure
warning and autonomous emergency braking (AEB) which works at speeds of up to
60 km/h and can also detect pedestrians and motorcycles.
As before, the 1 Series is offered with a range of
three-, four- and six-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. Finally,
the updated range also offers several special-edition models; the Edition Sport
Line – Edition M Sport Shadow, and M140i Edition Shadow – all bringing an array
of dark-themed exterior highlights.
The Shadow models are distinguished by enhancements
such as LED headlights with black inserts, darkened LED tail-lights, black
chrome trim for the double kidney front grille, tailpipe finishers, along with
two new exterior colours; Seaside Blue (pictured) and Sunset Orange. Several
dark alloy wheel designs are available depending on model.
