The next-generation BMW 1 Series has been spied again on the Nurburgring, but this time around the spy photographers have managed to nab pictures of the car’s interior.
Although large swaths of the car’s cabin is covered, we see can some details through it all. There looks to be a larger and better integrated infotainment screen sitting in the middle of the dashboard.
In the centre tunnel there’s a large iDrive controller situated alongside a new-style automatic transmission shifter and an electronic parking brake.
Ahead of the driver is a high resolution screen for displaying instrumentation, navigation and infotainment functions. There are buttons on the steering wheel for the audio and radar-guided cruise control systems.
Externally, this latest prototype doesn’t look any different to the car spotted in September on the Nurburgring, with false body panels and temporary lighting units hiding many of the car’s styling details.
The third-generation 1 Series hatch will ditch its rear-wheel drive underpinnings in favour of a front- and all-wheel drive platform shared with Mini and other small BMW models, including the X1, X2, 2 Series Active Tourer, and the China-only 1 Series sedan.
While the move to a front-wheel architecture will have some purists sobbing into their steins, the change should ensure the new hatchback has improved space efficiency and more interior room, especially for those sitting on the back pew.
Under the bonnet, the new 1 Series is expected to feature a selection of three- and four-cylinder turbocharged petrol and diesel engines.
The rumour mill indicates the new 1 Series hatch will likely make its debut either in late 2018 or early 2019.
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