New BMW 1 Series Launch Details – Petrol, Hybrid and EV Options Confirmed

Published ByKonica Singh

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2026-05-20

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New BMW 1 Series Launch Details – Petrol, Hybrid and EV Options Confirmed

BMW 1 Series to return in 2028 with EV, petrol, and hybrid options. Electric BMW i1 could bring back rear-wheel drive. Neue Klasse-inspired design and futuristic cabin also expected.

BMW is preparing the next-generation 1 Series hatchback, and new details about the upcoming model have now surfaced online. The fourth-generation 1 Series is expected to arrive globally in 2028 and will continue with a traditional hatchback design instead of moving towards an SUV-like body style.

The biggest highlight is that BMW plans to offer the new 1 Series with petrol, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrains, making it one of the most versatile premium hatchbacks in the segment.

Also Read: Long-Range 7-Seater EVs Expected in India Soon

Electric BMW i1 in Development

BMW is also working on an electric version of the hatchback, which is expected to be called the BMW i1. Reports suggest that the EV will use BMW’s new Gen6 electric platform, which also underpins upcoming models like the iX3 and i3.

One major change could be the return of rear-wheel drive for the electric i1. BMW moved the current 1 Series to a front-wheel-drive setup back in 2019, but the new EV platform may bring back the sporty rear-wheel-drive feel the older models were known for.

The standard electric version is expected to use a single rear-mounted motor producing up to 326 hp. BMW may also launch a dual-motor performance version later with around 469 hp, which would make it the most powerful 1 Series ever.

Petrol and Hybrid Versions to Continue

BMW is not planning to go fully electric with the 1 Series just yet. Alongside the EV, the hatchback is expected to continue with updated versions of the current 1.5-litre three-cylinder and 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engines.

A plug-in hybrid version is also expected to join the lineup. Reports suggest it could use a setup similar to the current BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

New Design Inspired by Neue Klasse Models

The next-generation BMW 1 Series is expected to adopt styling inspired by BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse EV lineup.

BMW designers say future models will share the same design philosophy but will still have their own unique identity. The new 1 Series is likely to get sharper styling, slimmer lighting elements, and a cleaner overall look while keeping its sporty hatchback proportions.

Futuristic Interior Expected

Inside, the new 1 Series could feature BMW’s latest cabin technology. Reports suggest it may get a large 17.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system along with BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive display, which replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a wide digital screen running across the dashboard.

BMW has reportedly designed this interior setup to work across multiple future models and body styles.

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BMW Still Sees Strong Demand for the 1 Series

Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, BMW says the 1 Series continues to remain an important model for the company, especially in European markets.

The hatchback reportedly sold close to 200,000 units globally last year, showing that premium hatchbacks still have strong demand.

With multiple powertrain options, a new platform, updated design, and advanced technology, the next-generation BMW 1 Series could become one of the most exciting premium hatchbacks when it arrives in 2028.

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About Author

Konica Singh

Sub-Editor

Konica Singh is a passionate Automotive Journalist who brings the world of cars to life, from EV trends to exciting new car launches. Backed by 7 years in content creation, she is skilled in writing, editing, and SEO strategy that drives engagement.

Education: MA English (Delhi University)

Social Media: LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Email: konica.carlelo@gmail.com

Location: New Delhi

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