The BMW 1 Series has undergone its final cosmetic upgrade for 2017 before its successor switches to the front-wheel drive UKL platform.
To see the only real-wheel drive player in the premium small car sector out before its 2018-2019 replacement, BMW has treated the car to some subtle external upgrades that include fresh head and tail lamps, which now have dark accents and re-positioned reverse light at the rear.
New ‘Shadow’ editions for the Sport Line, M Sport and M140i also include black grille surrounds, black chrome exhaust tips and five new alloy wheel designs ranging from 17 to 18 inches in diameter, with two dark finishes available. Two new colours join the range too: Sunset Orange and Seaside Blue.
Inside the instrument cluster now features a new design, with digital elements and darker backing. Air vents, power window buttons and glovebox have been revised with a new sliding cupholder and trim blade spanning the passenger side of the dash.
A new 8.8-inch infotainment screen now features the latest software from BMW, including Navigation system Professional and touch sensitivity. Drivers also have access to real-time traffic, street parking and can sync their calendar with Microsoft Exchange. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus wireless charging and WiFi hotspot are some of the extensive changes inside.
Internationally, engines range from 80kW to 250kW, with fuel efficiency ratings as low as 3.4L/100km in the most frugal diesel. A launch is penned in July 2017, with an Australian launch to be confirmed.
