80 photos of the new BMW 1 Series

BMW has updated its 1 Series range and, while things pretty much look the same on the surface, there may just be enough under the skin to convince devotees of the hatchback that it’s time for an upgrade.

For starters, the engine range has been expanded to include the latest-generation petrol and diesel units with three and four cylinders. There’s also a broader spread of standard equipment and an output boost for the six-cylinder in-line engine powering the BMW M135i M Performance Automobile.

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The exterior changes, while minor, include a new grille, headlights, rear lights and larger air intakes.

Given its reputation for charging extra for everything it can reasonably get away with, it’s pretty pleasing that the new 1 Series will actually come with a fair few features out of the box.

Standard equipment for the new BMW 1 Series model range now also features automatic air conditioning, a rain sensor, the BMW Radio Professional and the iDrive operating system, complete with a high-resolution 6.5-inch display integrated in the instrument panel as a freestanding monitor.

Of course, if you want to, there are plenty of customisation options available too.

The German marque has also thrown in a few extra driving aids including radar-based Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function and the latest version of its Park Assist technology. Features such as the camera-based Driving Assistant, rear-view camera and Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Info display can also be specified.

All models in the new BMW 1 Series line-up come as standard with an embedded SIM card, which allows use of the likewise standard Intelligent Emergency Call and BMW TeleServices functions, as well as access to optional internet-based mobility services.