The second-generation 1 Series went on sale in 2011 as a redesigned version of the compact that BMW first introduced in 2004. But, unlike its predecessor, the current model consists of only three- and five-door hatchbacks, while the two-door coupe and convertible are being sold under the 2 Series. Pretty much a competitor for the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Audi A3, the current 1 Series stands out as the only vehicle in its niche to use a rear-wheel drive architecture. In 2016, BMW confirmed that the 1 Series will also get a sedan version.
Rumored for a few years now, and spotted testing under heavy camouflage as early as 2013, the 1 Series Sedan was announced in July 2016 as a model designed exclusively for the Chinese market. The car has yet to be unveiled to the public as of this writing, but an official launch is scheduled later in 2016. BMW did release a teaser picture showing that the sedan’s design is heavily based on that of the 1 Series hatchback. However, while the styling cues are similar, the platform underneath is not. Unlike the hatch, the four-door sedan rides on a front-wheel drive platform shared with the Mini Cooper; the same that will underpin the third-generation 1 Series.
Although BMW said that the sedan won’t be sold outside China for the time being, we do believe that the four-door will eventually find its way into other markets, including Europe and North America. When that happens, the German brand will expand the lineup to include more trims, including performance oriented versions. This could happen as early as 2018. An M-badged version would definitely be in the works in that scenario, which is why we went ahead and asked our designer to come up with a 1M Sedan. More about its design features and what it may bring to the table in our speculative review below.
Keep reading to find out more about the 2018 BMW 1M Sedan.
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