We’ve captured a few images of the next (likely 2012 model year) 1-Series being tested by BMW, but the new photos seem to raise as many questions as they answer.
This would appear to be the first look at the full prototype version of the next 1, where earlier spies were test mules, and there are some notable differences. The longer, wider car would appear to address the current car’s issues with rear seat room (there is none), while the prototypes separated dual exhaust may be a tactic to address the addition of four-cylinder models to the 1-Series lineup.
Currently 135i models have a twin exhaust feeding from one side of the rear bumper, a configuration that might be used exclusively for four-pot Bimmers in the future. Top end models like the 135i however, might use the piping system seen on this car.
A new and more powerful engine version of the BMW 1 series was spotted today. The 2 exhaust pipes, one on each side gave it away. With the current version of the 1 series, both the 130i hatch and the 135i coupe have twin exhaust pipes but on the same side so this is new to the 1 series.
This prototype is also more developed then the earlier we have seen, not much but still. If you look closely you can see the BMW typical kidneys behind the disguise, and this one also has more of the air intakes open, our guess is to give the bigger engine some more cooling air.
We are not sure if the brakes are bigger, since all the other prototypes had steel wheels where you couldn’t see the brake discs at all.
Maybe BMW should offer the car in this psyco paint and with matte black alloys; it’s looking better and better for every time we see it.
source: nextautos
