Facelifted 2015 BMW 1 Series hatch unwrapped

BMW has unveiled its facelifted 1 Series hatch with an extensively modified front- and rear-end design. Both 3-door and 5-door models will also come with a revise engine line-up that promises to reduce fuel consumption even further.

The outgoing 1 Series “angry bird” headlights have been banished from the new model, replaced by a pair of aesthetically superior unit with LED daytime running lights as standard. There’s also a restyled BMW kidney grille and larger air intakes in the new front bumper.

At the other end, the rear LED lights have been completely remodeled. They now display the “L” shape characteristic of BMW models.

Standard equipment for the updated BMW 1 Series range now includes automatic air conditioning, a rain sensor, BMW Radio Professional with iDrive and complete with a high-resolution 6.5-inch display.

An updated range of engine is available for the facelifted 1 Series, including three-, four- and six-cylinder engines, mated to either a standard six-speed manual, or an optional eight-speed automatic.

The M135i also cop a 5kW increase in output to 240kW from its six-cylinder in-line engine, resulting in a 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.7 seconds.

The radar-based Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function is now available as an option on the updated 1 Series, while the latest-generation Parking Assistant, camera-based Driving Assistant, rear-view camera and Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Info display can also be specified.

The entire lineup now comes as standard with an embedded SIM card, which allows use of the now standard Intelligent Emergency Call, BMW TeleService functions and Real Time Traffic Information, as well as access to optional internet-based mobility services. The new Navigation system Professional also offers automatic map updating by mobile phone via the embedded SIM card.

Australian pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the car’s launch in the middle of the year.