Next-Generation BMW 1 Series Is Coming Soon With A RWD

The fourth generation of the BMW 1 Series compact model will be launched in two years, with electric and hybrid powertrains. The Bavarians aim to attract young buyers in key markets in Europe, and one of the trump cards is rear-wheel drive.

Last year, almost 200,000 units of the compact BMW were sold worldwide, which is why there is a need for it to remain in the Bavarian brand’s offering. However, some customers are upset because the current model is only offered with internal combustion engines and front-wheel drive. Customers believe that BMW has, therefore, lost the DNA of the model, which, from the very beginning, as a “real” BMW, was offered with rear-wheel drive.

For the fourth generation of the 1 Series, BMW will also add an electric version with more than 320 horsepower. Like the new BMW i3 and 3 Series, it will be built on a dedicated platform but will share the styling and brand identity with the internal combustion engine variants while also adopting elements of the Neue Klasse design language first seen on the iX3 SUV and i3 sedan.

The new model is expected in 2028, four years after a major refresh of the current model and in line with BMW’s plan to complete the introduction of the Neue Klasse in the next two and a half years. Many manufacturers have moved away from entry-level cars to focus on larger, more profitable models, but BMW sees the 1 Series as a key part of its business, despite customers favoring SUVs and crossovers.

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