A prototype believed to be the next-generation 2019 BMW 1 Series has made its debut at the iconic Nurburgring race track this week. The 1 Series mule spied on track features a new front bumper with a radar sensor – likely for autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and radar cruise control systems.

What’s most important about BMW’s next-gen small car, is that it will be front- and all-wheel drive rather than rear-wheel drive like the current car, sharing its UKL platform with everything from the 2 Series Active Tourer and X1, to the entire Mini range.


While enthusiasts may cringe at the thought of BMW switching from rear- to front-wheel drive, it does mean the 1 Series should be more practical inside, particularly in terms of rear passenger room and luggage capacity. Another sting is that the next 1 Series will be three- and four-cylinder only, meaning the current M140i with its turbo straight six is the last of a breed. It’s believed a range of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines will be offered, along with potential plug-in hybrid and all-electric versions.

The car in the images is likely to be the performance oriented M140i xDrive, which will switch out the current version’s 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive for a high-output four-cylinder turbo and all-wheel drive thanks to its large wheels, dual exhaust outlets and aggressive bumper treatments.

In terms of timing, the new 1 Series is expected to make its debut sometime next year. 

Cr : Caradvice