The updated 1 Series could be launched in India this year.
The 2016 BMW 1 Series (facelift) will have its public premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next week. Prior to launching it in the Chinese market this year, the company has started testing the updated hatchback with a sparse amount of camouflage, as seen in these spyshots.
Reacting to feedback, designers have given the 2016 1 Series a new front fascia with redesigned headlights and optional LED lighting. Minor tweaks to the kidney grille and a new front bumper round up the changes at the front.
The rear of the 1 Series facelift gets new two-piece taillights with LED technology, and a new rear bumper. Inside, new upholstery options, chrome surrounds for the iDrive screen and an optional 8.8-inch iDrive screen (6.5-inch standard) are part of the updates.
BMW have also announced its 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine for the 116i variant, which makes 109 bhp and 180 Nm of torque.
Also read: BMW X4 ruled out for India
The 2016 1 Series 'could be' launched in India by the end of this year, Mr. Philipp von Sahr, President of BMW India told Indian Autos Blog. The 1 Series is assembled at BMW India's Chennai plant by way of CKD kits. Most recently, the company stopped selling the 116i petrol variant in the country, and only sells the 1 Series with a 2.0-liter diesel engine matched to an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard.
Competitors: Mercedes A Class, Audi A3 Sedan
Expected Price: INR 25-30 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: By end-2015 (expected)
2016 BMW 1 Series Facelift - Spyshot Gallery
[Spyshots from AutoSohu]
