THERE’S a new kind of 1 Series. BMW Australia has confirmed the introduction of the new front-wheel drive premium hatchback range later this year, bringing the marque’s renowned driving pleasure together with a significant increase in interior space.
The new architecture blends cutting edge chassis engineering, innovative technologies and integrated components and control systems that influence the car’s driving dynamics to provide exceptional agility and handling.
ARB technology from the i3 has also found its way onto the 1 Series range, and will significantly improving traction when pulling away, cornering or driving in the wet, by allowing wheel slip to be controlled more sensitively and swiftly than before.
A dynamic new styling package both inside and out adds a new look and feel, along with increased levels of technology, standard safety options and BMW firsts in both equipment and power train offerings.
Two models will be available at launch in the last quarter of this year; the 118i and the M135i xDrive, providing buyers with the option of a highly specified entry level model and a potent high performance variant.
Both launch models deliver smooth and progressive power delivery with the latest BMW three and four cylinder engines, combined with sporty seven and eight speed transmissions.
The 118i will feature a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder TwinPower turbo engine, which produces 103kW and 220Nm, and helps deliver the standard sprint in 8.5 seconds. The BMW M135i xDrive features the most powerful 4-cylinder engine BMW has ever developed.
It delivers 225kW and a whopping 450Nm, with the 2.0-litre unit propelling the M135i xDrive to 100km/h from rest in just 4.8 seconds. It is also the first 1 Series to feature xDrive technology, for increased traction and stability.
The M Sport package will be standard on BMW 118i and a panoramic glass sunroof will be available for the first time on the BMW 1 Series. An enhanced suite of advanced driving assistance features are also fitted as standard equipment.
These include a head-up display, lane change warning, and reversing assistant. Live cockpit professional and wireless smartphone charging are also standard. Enthusiasts of the 1 Series will appreciate a 30kg lighter body over the previous model as well.
The BMW 118i is priced at $42,990 plus on-roads, while you can jump into an M135i xDrive for $63,990 plus on-roads.
Joining the 1 Series down under will be the new look X6, which comes with an enhanced styling package, sleek proportions, a new infotainment system and the option of BMW’s new high capacity towing solution across all models.
It continues BMWs roll out of premium, engaging sports activity models that directly respond to the demands of customers, and follows the introduction of the X7, and high performance 375kW X3 M and X4 M models.
The new BMW X6 has grown in length, width and wheelbase, but with a reduction in overall height, to deliver a sleek and commanding appearance befitting of a contemporary BMW sports activity vehicle.
A key aspect of the front aesthetic is the new large kidney grille, with both halves of the design framed by a common surround. Characteristic, slim twin headlights underscore the vehicle’s width.
The optional ‘Iconic Glow’ illuminated grille further advances the BMW X6 front design profile. A new interior features reconfigured and redesigned controls, and premium materials, such as Vernasca leather upholstery.
The BMW X6 also now features 40/20/40-split second row seats, adding a new level of versatility. This update means luggage capacity can increase from 580 litres to as much as 1,530 litres.
In addition, the rear seats are shaped to appear like individual seats, which emphasises the new model’s athletic character. All three variants in the range also score the M Sport package across all three models, including M Sport brakes.
Three engines are available for the BMW X6 at launch, with peak outputs ranging from 195kW for the X6 xDrive30d to 390kW in the X6 M50i. All power units are mated to a smooth eight speed Sport Steptronic transmission.
All three BMW X6 models are available with a new BMW towing solution that includes an integrated hitch receiver, bespoke control unit and specific vehicle wiring harness. The new hitch does not require any vehicle part removal, ensuring seamless integration.
The specific control unit is multi functional and assists driver safety, while surround view offers an additional zoom function for the rear camera. A trailer stabilisation system is also included.
Every model in the BMW X6 range now has 3,500kg towing capacity with a maximum down-ball load of 280kg. The BMW X6 xDrive30d is priced at $121,900 through to the BMW X6 M50i at $155,900. Prices are plus on-roads.
