The launch of Mercedes-Benz A-Class in India has set the ball rolling for BMW's plans to bring its 1-Series hatchback to the country. Recently, at the launch ceremony of the facelifted X6 in New Delhi, the President of BMW India announced company's intention to bring the smallest BMW car to India. The car is expected to make its debut in the country anytime during 2013. Available in petrol and diesel guise, this luxury hatchback comes in both three-door as well as five- door options. However, it is speculated that India will receive the five door 1-Series hatchback. The petrol variants of the model are served by 1.6 litre powertrain that is tweaked to serve on two different models, delivering 136 and 170 bhp, respectively. On the other hand, the diesel-run 2.0 litre powertrain has been tweaked to serve on three variants with power outputs of 116, 143 and 184 bhp, respectively.
BMW 1-Series hatchback is a performance-oriented model loaded with several cutting-edge features for the comfort and security of its occupants. This car is loaded with parking assist, lane departure warning, collision warning, cruise control and BMW ConnectedDrive. Another interesting highlight is the smartphone and music player integration with Social Networking apps like Facebook and Twitter. However, it remains to be seen that whether or not all these features are included in the Indian variant of the car.
Expected to be launched in India around August 2013, the new car will be initially brought to the country as Completely Built Unit (CBU). However, the model will be assembled from Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits by the end of 2013 at the Chennai manufacturing plant of BMW. The local assembly of the model will help reduce the price, making 1-Series the least expensive product in BMW line-up. This premium hatchback will be offered with rear wheel drive system, which makes it a driver's delight.
Designed on the all new 3-Series platform of BMW, the new model will be the smallest product on offer by the German car maker. This car offers a capacious cabin and refreshingly stylish exteriors to its customers. Its roof line narrow down in the front to make for a well-defined snout and the rear also boasts of sharply chiselled design. The German car maker is planning to position the new model in direct competition with the recently launched Mercedes-Benz A-Class in India. It will be interesting to watch this clash of titans as both these luxury hatchbacks try to establish themselves in growing luxury hatchback segment in the country.
