The first official information about BMW's new baby, the 1-series, was released today. Due for launch in the Autumn, the new compact Beemer is intended to steal sales in the hatchback class currently dominated by Ford's Focus and cash in on the current market trend of down sizing. The 1-series is being pitched at the upper end of this sector as the new affordable BMW and the first rung on the coveted BMW ownership ladder. It maintains BMW's trademark styling features and the current "flame surfaced" ideology of its bigger brethren, ensuring the 1-series will stand out in this crowded niche, if not necessarily for the right reason. In common with the rest of the range, the 1 is not a looker, but for many the lure of the badge is enough to overcome this.

Unique to the class is BMW's customary front engine, rear-drive chassis layout with the traditional optimal 50:50 weight distribution said to offer class leading dynamics and a purer driving experience. The 1-series will be launched with four engines, which will be fired up via a button on the dash: two petrol and two diesels, with the option of three transmissions. The basic model, the 116i, will feature a four-pot 115 bhp engine giving performance similar to the class average: 0-62 mph in 10.8 seconds, a maximum of 125 mph and 37.7 mpg. The other petrol model is the 120i. With the 2.0-litre Valvetronic engine pushing out 150 bhp and 200 Nm of torque, performance is improved to give a 135 mph maximum and 0-62 mph in 8.7 seconds.

These two petrol units are complemented by two diesels, showing BMW's increased commitment to this growing market sector. In a departure from the norm the diesels offer better performance than their petrol equivalents. The 163 bhp 120d is capable of 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds and a 137 mph maximum whilst still returning a claimed 49.6 mpg. The cheaper diesel, the 118d manages 50.4 mpg, a 125 mph maximum and 0 to 62 mph in 10 seconds. The huge torque of the two diesels (offering 280 and 340 Nm respectively) promises impressive mid range surge and this, complimented by the sporty nature of the new diesels and their willingness to rev, may make them the keen driver's choice in the line-up. However, the extra weight in the nose of the car may upset the handling balance – we will have to drive it for ourselves. All of the engines are stage four compliant for Euro emissions standards. All models, bar the 116i, will be fitted with a 6-speed manual as standard; the 116i makes do with a 5-speed 'box. A six-speed automatic will be optional on the 120i and 120d.

The new chassis features an aluminium front axle and a multi-link rear set-up aimed at improved handling and grip, to offer the driver the ultimate driving experience in the class. To complement the inherent dynamic abilities of the chassis the 1-series will also feature Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, Dynamic Brake Control and an Electronic Differential lock. All these features were on the Z4 we tested recently and we found them to work very well, at the expense of some of the fun. This dynamic safety will be backed up by a high level of safety features including head airbags, which puts BMW aiming squarely at 5 stars in the NCAP tests. No results are available to back this up at time of writing.

The baby BMW is 4.23 m long with 2.66 m of this between the axles ensuring efficient packaging for four occupants whilst maintaining a decent 330 litres of boot space (this increases to 1150 litres with the rear seats folded flat). Equipment-wise the 1 will feature a simplified I-drive system with optional satnav; options include Bluetooth capability, Parking Distance Control and Xenon lights. Voice recognition radio and satnav will appear after launch along with keyless entry. Standard 16-inch tyres are fitted and these will be run flats to do away with the space-sapping spare. A drag coefficient of 0.29 should ensure the 1-series is quiet and efficient at motorway speeds.

Although no sporty variants have been announced as yet expect at least a highly strung 2.0-litre four cylinder. More likely is one of the marque's straight sixes to give a 250 bhp range-topper worthy of the motorsport “M” badge.

Prices for the 1-series will be released in the spring. The Car Enthusiast will drive the car later this year. Look out for the review on the main Road Tests page.

Dave Jenkins - 23 Mar 2004