For decades, the driving soul of a BMW was defined by power going straight to the rear wheels. That classic formula saw a major shift in the 2010s when Munich introduced front-wheel-drive architectures for its compact lineup, a move that left brand purists longing for the old days. Aside from the enthusiast-favorite 2 Series Coupe, BMW's smallest models transitioned to a more conventional layout. However, a major shake-up is brewing at the bottom of the lineup, and it is bringing the celebrated rear-wheel-drive dynamics back to the brand's entry-level car, with a modern, fully electric twist.
BMW is currently developing a next-generation 1 Series that will send its power exclusively to the rear axle. The catch is that this new driving dynamic will not be powered by petrol. Instead, the fifth iteration of BMW's smallest hatchback is going completely electric, riding on a bespoke EV platform. Expected to arrive before the end of the decade, this premium compact hatchback will mark a return to form for driving enthusiasts who miss the balanced, playful handling of traditional rear-drive layouts.
The Upcoming i1: A Modern Successor to an Electric Pioneer
Tentatively named the i1, this upcoming electric hatchback will serve as the entry point into BMW's electric vehicle portfolio. In many ways, it acts as the spiritual successor to the quirky and innovative i3, which carved out a unique niche for itself between 2013 and 2022. While some might wonder why BMW is investing in a small electric hatchback when its sibling brand, Mini, already populates that segment, the global numbers speak for themselves. The 1 Series remains incredibly popular in the age of the SUV, moving nearly 200,000 units globally last year alone, despite not even being offered in the North American market.
The i1 will join a highly competitive premium compact space, arriving around 2028. It will face stiff competition from its traditional rivals, including Audi's upcoming electric A2 and a refreshed Mercedes A-Class. To ensure it stands out, BMW is infusing the i1 with its highly anticipated Neue Klasse design language and advanced cabin tech, which includes a sweeping central touchscreen and a highly sophisticated windshield projection system.
Power of Choice: Maintaining the Petrol Tradition
The arrival of a flagship electric hatchback does not mean gasoline fans are being left out in the cold. True to its signature strategy, BMW is continuing its commitment to the power of choice. The front-wheel-drive, combustion-powered 1 Series will live on right alongside its electric sibling. BMW is adopting a dual-platform approach, a tactic it has successfully deployed for the new 3 Series and i3, as well as the upcoming X1 and iX1 crossover variants.
By building the petrol-powered models on a separate, dedicated combustion architecture while sharing the visual identity of the electric bespoke platform, BMW ensures that nobody feels compromised. Whether you choose a traditional internal combustion engine or the new rear-wheel-drive electric powertrain, you will get the exact same cutting-edge exterior styling and high-tech interior features. It is a seamless bridge between heritage and future technology, wrapped in a compact, driver-focused package.
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