BMW has been testing the next generation 1-Series for over a year, and a prototype has been spied alongside the current model. The side-by-side images are revealing as they show an evolutionary design with rounded headlights and a relatively tame front bumper. The latter features vertical air curtains as well as a vertical pillar in the lower intake, which likely houses a sensor pod.
Additional details are hard to make out, but we can see a conservative rear end that lacks visible exhaust tips. The prototype also appears to adopt a more curvaceous bumper, while temporary taillights hint at a familiar wraparound design.
More: 2025 BMW 1-Series And M135i xDrive Spied Showing Updated Interior
Previous spy photos have given us a glimpse inside and the model is slated to follow in the footsteps of the 2-Series Active Tourer. This means we can expect a significantly improved cabin with a freestanding curved display. That won’t be the only change as the model will have a revised center console with a minimalist shifter, a rotary volume controller, and two easily accessible USB ports.
While the new 1-Series has long been believed to be a simple facelift, rumors have suggested it could be a full redesign known as the F70. These can apparently be traced back to a Bimmerpost user, who claims the redesigned model will go into production in July of 2024. If that’s the case, the current F40 would have a short five year run.
Regardless of what BMW is planning, the 1-Series will be offered with an assortment of engines and the upcoming M135i is expected to use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with around 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.
