BMW is set to launch its entry-level luxury hatchback, 1 Series, in India this September. The 1 Series will be available in both petrol and diesel options and will go up against the widely popular Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
The two variants of the 1 Series on offer will be the 118d powered by the 2.0-litre diesel motor detuned to 145PS and the 116i, driven by the 1.6-litre petrol engine delivering 138PS power. The petrol engine is the same found under the hood of the Mini Cooper and the Cooper S models and will breathe via a twin scroll turbocharger. Both these engine options will be mated to an eight automatic transmission and will drive the rear wheels.
The longitudinally mounted engine and the rear wheel drive set up will bring with it a sportier proposition compared to its German competitor. The 1 Series will be locally assembled at the BMW plant in Chennai and will likely be priced between Rs 20-25 lakh. Considering the response received for the A-Class, the BMW 1 Series is expected to be an instant hit in the luxury hatch segment. The upcoming A3 hatchback from Audi is only going to spice things up further in the coming months.
