2025 BMW 1 Series revealed with more technology, familiar design

The “new” 2025 BMW 1 Series hatch has been unveiled in Europe ahead of its Australian launch later this year with more-advanced technology – but a similar look to the current model.

Due to declining passenger vehicle sales, the fourth-generation 1 Series – codenamed ‘F70’ – is a significant facelift of the current, third-generation 'F40' series launched in 2019, retaining an identical wheelbase and hard points.

The F40 controversially shifted from rear-wheel-drive to the front- or all-wheel-drive UKL2 platform shared with the Mini Cooper and BMW X1, in line with its Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Audi A3 rivals.

61

It is the first BMW vehicle to drop the 'i' suffix for petrol models to avoid confusion with electric 'i'-branded vehicles like the i4 and iX. Diesel models will retain the 'd' suffix, and plug-in hybrids will continue with the 'e' suffix.

The latest 1 Series will launch in Australia with two petrol options: the 118 and M135 xDrive.

In Europe, a 120 petrol or 118d and 120d diesel models will also be available, while BMW says two more petrol models are due later this year.

This could include a replacement for the current 128ti front-wheel-drive hot hatch, which would slot between the 120 and M135.

61

The 118 has a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 115kW and 230Nm – up 12kW and 10Nm over the current 118i.

Stepping up to M135 adds a 233kW/400Nm 2.0-litre non-hybrid turbocharged four-cylinder – up 8kW but down 50Nm. It can hit 100km/h from a standstill in 4.9 seconds – one-tenth slower than before – and tops out at 250km/h.

Like the new X1 and X2 M35i models, the M135 sees revisions applied to various engine components, and there’s also a new M Sport Boost function to quickly set the drive and suspension settings into the highest sports settings, while the M135’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system is lighter than before.

61

The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission fitted to all variants now features fully electric actuation, a wider range of gears, and automatic shifting to park when the engine is turned off.

Under the skin, BMW has improved the rigidity of the body structure and chassis connection, installed an additional sleeve on the shock absorber for better stability over small bumps, and reduced body roll during dynamic cornering.

61

There is also improved steering feedback and stable directional stability with the front wheel caster increased by 20 per cent, while the redesigned front axle support improves energy absorption and occupant protection in a collision.

BMW has also consolidated several braking components into one compact module, reduced the space needed for the rear springs and dampers, and installed aluminium hydro mounts for a three-kilogram weight saving.

Measuring 4361mm long, 1800mm wide and 1459mm tall, with a 2670mm wheelbase, the new 1 Series is 42mm longer and 25mm taller than its predecessor, while its dimensions are unchanged for the width and wheelbase.

61

The side profile of the 1 Series is familiar to the current model but introduces an embossed number 1 in a revised Hofmeister kink area of the C-pillar.

It also sports new side air deflectors, hidden exhaust pipes for non-M Performance models, and flatter tail-lights.

A new two-tone black roof will be standard for the M135, while there are redesigned 17-, 18-, or 19-inch alloy wheels across the 1 Series line-up.

Inside, the 1 Series has a redesigned dashboard and centre console similar to the latest X1 and X2, featuring a new steering wheel, a curved display, different infotainment software, fewer physical controls, and a smaller gear selector.

61

The revised seats offer improved lateral support, with the M135 featuring M sport seats with an integrated headrest, illuminated M logo, and an optional massage function.

A leather-free interior is standard, utilising sustainable materials, including marine plastic from discarded fishing nets for some textile surfaces and foamed components.

The BMW Operating System 9 is based on Android Automotive software and allows for over-the-air software updates, third-party application downloads and a 5G mobile connection – but sees the removal of the iDrive rotary controller in favour of touch-only input.

The digital instrument cluster remains at 10.25 inches – now with a flatter design and a notched area – while the central touchscreen increases to 10.7 inches, up from 10.25 inches.

61

A 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system – offering less speakers than the current 1 Series – augmented-reality cloud-based satellite navigation, more configurable ambient lighting and a larger wireless phone charger with cooling fans are now available.

The optional Parking Assistant Professional is now available in the 1 Series, which allows for remote manoeuvring into tight spaces and can store the last 200 metres of travel for automatic parking in complex spaces.

First Australian details for the 2025 BMW 1 Series hatch will be confirmed later this morning.

The 2025 BMW 1 Series hatch will arrive in Australia between October and December, with local pricing and full specification details to be announced next month.

2025 BMW 1 Series initial features

2025 BMW M135 initial features

Below: The current 'F40' 2024 BMW 1 Series

61

61