2011/2012 1-series test mule already spotted!

[Declan]

Looks like they're already testing the next gen 1-series

The car pictured here is in fact an early test-mule for the next-generation 1-series hatch due most likely due in late 2011 or early 2012. Makeshift fender flares reveal the new model will sport a widened track both front and rear, confirming the next 1-series will be bigger than the current model. The larger footprint will also improve the car’s dynamics and road-holding abilities.


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[spudw]

Here is a current one. The new one doesn't appear to be a substantial break from the current design...

[turbomg]

Originally Posted by spudw

Here is a current one. The new one doesn't appear to be a substantial break from the current design...

I'm sure it's more of a technology mule than a design one. The current 1er hatch design has been around a long time and will surely be changed in '12

[jbenington86]

ummm ok they took a 116i or a 118i and gave it a bigger back seat..... i see these all the time

[chriscecc914]

ughhh station wagon

[Zonian22]

I was at Barnes and Noble, and I don't remember what magazine I was reading (Automobile, Car and Driver, Motor Trend, etc.), but it showed an artist rendering of the next gen 2011 1-series tii. It looked really nice and aggressive...this is the reason why I decided to order now and not wait until next year. I figure I'd have the current 135i all paid for by 2011, then I'll jump into the next gen. Anyone else see this article?

[larryn]

Looks like an E87 4 door hatch with fender skirts riveted on. Since it sits higher than a stock E87, I assume it is either an XI version, or an X1 test mule, with the 1er hatch body dropped on it.

[Red135]

It looks like an X1.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/dc...?q=BMW+X1&rP=1#

[NJKSC27]

ugly

[aesthetect]

Originally Posted by larryn

Looks like an E87 4 door hatch with fender skirts riveted on. Since it sits higher than a stock E87, I assume it is either an XI version, or an X1 test mule, with the 1er hatch body dropped on it.

agree. cleverly camouflaged X1 test mule.

[ulrichd]

...confirming the next 1-series will be bigger than the current model.

Just once I'd like to see someone keep a future model the same size. How long before the 1-series will be too big and we'll need a .5 series. They even made the Mini bigger.

[mtla4]

seen it before Im 99% sure its an x1 why would they jack the 1 series like that

[Imola.ZHP]

I don't see how the fender flares "confirm" the car will have a wider track. Though there are fender flares, the tires and the "track" still look like a normal 1er "track." I think the fender flares are just throwing you off of the fact that is probably an AWD vehicle. The suspension height is quite tall. Who knows what frame/engine/drivetrain are underneath this 1er 5dr body.

My guess is its not the "next" generation 1er at all, its probably the next smaller sized X ute. X1, X2 or whatever they are going to call it, which, obviously, is going to be based on the 1er 5dr platform...

[aesthetect]

Originally Posted by ulrichd

...confirming the next 1-series will be bigger than the current model.

Just once I'd like to see someone keep a future model the same size. How long before the 1-series will be too big and we'll need a .5 series. They even made the Mini bigger.

honestly im really hoping - and more importantly logically believing - that the 1 series will not follow. the "intent so far" is to make a lighter chassis from the ground up..

[johnyguy]

Originally Posted by NJKSC27

ugly

agry ! ugly

the fenders look like somebody made them in there garage!

[pwong888]

The car look really small from the front driver's window.

[moff]

Originally Posted by aesthetect

agree. cleverly camouflaged X1 test mule.

I agree too.

Many UK car magazines are now talking about the new X1, baby 4x4, so I am also very sure that this is the X1 mule.

[Year1of1]

euro trash

[0002s]

X1

[tiintegra]

It looks like a dodge magnum

[FrencgBoy]

Oh oh...

http://news.windingroad.com/countrie...-bmw-1-series/

[RobLS]

Yeah...not so much.