BMW will increase the appeal of the 1-Series when it launches the second-generation model in 2011.

While the new 1-Series will again be available in three and five-door hatchback derivatives, with additional body styles, a range of performance variants, frugal new petrol engines and advanced fuel-saving tech, it should attract a greater market reach.

The most exciting additional variant, alongside successors to the two-door coupé and cabriolet, will be a new roadster — the Z2 — which could also be built as a small coupé model. Apparently, by taking the Z4 even further upmarket in its current iteration, BMW have created sufficient space at the bottom of the line-up for a second dedicated roadster.

Also under consideration, but yet to be given approval for production, is a small estate aimed at plugging the gap between the 1-Series and soon-to-be-launched X1 soft-roader. This could become the 1-Series equivalent of the new 5-Series GT.

All-new variants

In addition, BMW is thought to be working on another all-new variant which could be badged the Y1. The concept is still vague, but it could be heavily influenced by the controversial X-Coupé concept from 2001.

There are also suggestions that the firm is developing a new four-door saloon with a 1-Series silhouette described by sources as a genuine successor to the original 2002.

As with the current 1-Series, the 2011 model features a modular platform with BMW's traditional longitudinal engine layout, aspects of which are set to be shared with the next-generation 3-Series. Together with standard rear-wheel drive — a feature that will continue to set the 1-Series apart from all of its hatchback rivals — BMW is also considering adding four-wheel drive by using the system developed for the X1.

New entry-level engine

However, the biggest news is the new turbocharged three-cylinder engine that will be fitted to entry-level models. It is expected to replace the normally aspirated 1.6-litre engine and forms an integral part of BMW's future Efficient Dynamics programme.

Suggestions are that the new engine delivers between 82kW and 120kW depending on its state of tune. As an 82kW unit it should be capable of delivering combined fuel consumption of approximately 4.0l/100km and CO2 emissions of under 100g/km.

Also under development for the new 1-Series is a turbocharged 1.6-litre powerplant, replacing the naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine. This unit will produce between 112kW and 150kW. Less clear are BMW's plans for six-cylinder versions of the 1-Series.

The competitiveness of today's diesels means there will be no major changes to the existing 2.0-litre unit which develops 105kW, 130kW and (in twin-turbo form) 150kW. BMW is also working on a smaller 1.6-litre diesel, but it remains to be seen if this powerplant will be complete in time for inclusion in the new 1-Series at launch.

To further enhance the car's sporting image, BMW plans to revive the evocative 'ti' badge for a series of performance models under development at the company's M division. Although it will fall short of being a full-blown M model, the new ti has been conceived along the lines of one of BMW's most revered models: the E30 M3. Powering this model will be a new four-cylinder, 2.0-litre, turbocharged engine delivering up to 225kW.

Plenty to look forward to, then.

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