BMW was planning to keep the details of their redesigned 1 Series under wraps until the International Frankfurt Motor Show, this fall. But, following the leaking of several revealing photos onto the internet, they decided to tell all.

Based on the same platform as the 3 Series, the all-new 2012 1 Series offers greater passenger and cargo space than the outgoing E81. And, more exciting yet: For the first time ever, all petrol and diesel engines will feature new BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, which reduces fuel consumption, while improving power output.

Engines Available to 2012 BMW 1 Series Drivers

2012 BMW 1 Series' New-Generation of 1.6-Liter Petrol Engines

-          BMW 116i - 100 kW/136 hp
-          BMW118i - 125 kW/170 hp

2012 BMW 1 Series' Redesigned of 2.0-Liter Diesel Engines

-          BMW 116d - 85 kW/116 hp
-          BMW 118d - 105 kW/143 hp
-          BMW 120d - 135 kW/184 hp

2012 BMW 1 Series' Fuel-Efficient 1.6-Liter Diesel Engine

-          BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition (featuring additional fuel-saving technologies to keep CO₂ emissions over the EU testing cycle at just 99 g/km) - 85-kW/116-hp

Reinforcing the Bavarian automaker's position as an industry innovator, the new 1 Series is integrated with BMW EfficiencyDynamics technology. It is, in fact,  the first car within its segment, worldwide to feature an optional eight-speed automatic transmission, Automatic Start-Stop function in both manual and automatic transmissions, and standard ECO PRO mode activated by a driving-experience switch.

To enhance the car's responsiveness and passenger protection, as well as offer a more convenient and comfortable cockpit, BMW has also developed the new 1-Series with a highly torsion-resistant body and BMW Connected Drive.

BMW Connected Drive offers 1 Series drivers a collection of optional driver-assistance programs and mobility services. Among other things, these include: high-beam assistance, Adaptive Headlights, parking assistance, rear-view camera, Land Departure Warming including Collision Warning, cruise control with brake function, speed-limit and no-passing information, Internet connectivity, increased smartphone and media player integration, real-time traffic updates and entertainment apps (i.e., Web radio, Twitter, and Facebook).

As you can see, the 2012 BMW 1 Series is a pretty far departure from its E81 predecessor. About the only thing the two different generations have in common are boasting rights to being the only rear-wheel drive model in its class.

To learn more about the 2012 BMW 1 Series models, code named 'F20', contact Bert Smith BMW today at 866.870.7677. Or, visit us in person. We're conveniently located at 3800 34th Street North Saint Petersburg, FL.

Source: ¹http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/05/bmw-spills-all-the-beans-on-new-1-series/