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The slightly revised BMW 1 series range has been revealed. Joining the range for the first time are 3 door model variants. The new range is slightly longer (4239 mm for the new version, 4227 mm for the old), narrower (1748 mm new, 1751 mm old) and lower (1421 mm new, 1430 mm old) than the old range. Most of the engine lineups have more power, with the 118d making 143 PS (old: 122 PS), the 120d now with 177 PS (old: 163 PS), the 118i also with 143 PS (old: 129 PS) and the 120i up 20 PS from 150 PS to 170 PS. Full technical data here.

Most of the changes to the petrol-engined models is thanks to BMW's new second generation direct petrol injection, the first generation direct injection not having been used in production vehicles. The 130i doesn't get the direct injection, but the power characteristics have changed slightly. Maximum power and torque figures are the same as the previous model, but they occur in slightly different places in the rev range. Peak power is now achieved 50 rpm later, at 6650 rpm, and torque at 2750 rpm instead of from 2500-4000 rpm.

Perhaps the biggest change in the range is the addition of the 3-door body style. The doors are larger than on the 5 door models, and have pillarless frames. Both 4- and 5-seat interiors can be specified by buyers, with rear passengers in the 4-seater model having a central storage compartment.