This is some really cool ambient lighting.
BMW has announced the Finale Edition . This M140i Finale edition is a signal that the rear-wheel drive 1 Series and its straight six engine are about to die. The hatchback that is tail-happy will be replaced by a fully transformed 1er. It will go to a FWD platform with optional xDrive. Our spies sent us today a collection of images featuring Bavaria’s new entry-level model.
Officially Revealed
We’re familiar with spy photos of camouflaged prototypes for the 1Serie. So the exterior isn’t all that new. Based on the dual exhaust and blue brake calipers as well as the sporty bumpers, the test vehicle seems to be the most powerful. The new M140i is the name we’re referring to, but it could also be called M135i to match X2 M35i. It’s expected that it will inherit the 302-horsepower four cylinder engine. A third scenario is Autocar reporting, which will be called M140iXM Performance.
The interior of the prototype is the real story. It shows some significant changes to the dashboard design compared with the older (and somewhat aging) model. The layout is new for the 1 Series, but BMW fans will agree that the overall design bears striking similarities to the 2019 3 Series’ dash. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you see the similarities.
To be clear, the 1 is to the left and the 3 to the right.
It’s a clever trick to use the intricate ambient lighting on both the passenger and door cards.
We won’t be surprised if the new 1 Series will abandon the three-door model when it is revealed. This is because there is a shrinking demand for compact cars with rear doors. Although it remains to be seen if BMW will reconsider bringing the 1 Series Sedan into other markets, it is currently only available in China.
The new 3 Series Touring BMW will be making its big debut at the Geneva Motor Show next week. We might have to wait until September to see the revamped 1 Series hatchback in Frankfurt.