Say hello to the all-new 2025 BMW 1 Series

BMW takes the covers off the next-gen 1 Series hatchback

We've already seen the all-new BMW 7 Series and 5 Series make their official debut in the Philippines last year and earlier this year, respectively. The 3 Series, meanwhile, has received yet another facelift although it might be awhile before it makes its way here in the Philippines. As to when BMW will launch the next-generation 3 Series here, that remains to be seen.

However, the German automaker has pulled a surprise by debuting the the all-new 1 Series hatchback. Not only does it get a sharper-looking exterior, but BMW also gave it a more high-tech cabin along with a powerful M135 xDrive variant from the get-go.

Beginning with the most obvious first, the 2025 1 Series has a sportier appearance thanks to a new pair of LED headlights, a long hood, and a redesigned kidney grille. Even the LED taillights are new and feature a unique look that appears to have been inspired by the latest X2. Depending on the variant, the 2025 1 Series can come with various bumper designs and alloy wheels, with the latter sporting 17 inches in the standard model while 18- and 19-inch wheels are available as an option.

When it comes to paintwork, the 2025 1 Series will be available with two solid paint finishes and seven metallic hues. Those who prefer something a bit more special can opt for the BMW Individual paint colors. Last but not least, the new 1 Series is also the model in the brand's range to be offered with an optional contrasting roof finish courtesy of a high gloss black finish that adds a sportier appearance to the hatchback.

Also worth mentioning is the fact that the new 1 Series marks BMW's shift to dropping the “i” suffix for its gasoline-powered models. From here on out, BMW will only use the “i” nomenclature exclusively for electric vehicles (EVs). The “d” suffix, however, was retained to identify the brand's diesel-powered variants.

Open the doors and the 2025 1 Series greets occupants into a stylish and tech-laden interior. Those already familiar with the cabin of the X1 will find the interior quite familiar as it comes with the innovative floating center console complete with a new gear selector. There's also the now-familiar curved display that consists of a 10.25-inch instrument panel and a 10.7-inch infotainment screen. It supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, while the number of physical controls has been reduced thanks to the use of digital functions.

For the first time in its history, the 1 Series now comes with a leather-free interior as it makes generous use of synthetic fabrics & polyesters. This is standard in both the regular and M-powered versions of the new 1 Series. The seats themselves have perforated surfaces which are also available in the Veganza version which has leather-like properties.

With the rear seats up, the 1 Series has 380 liters of luggage space. However, that can be extended to 1,200 liters with the rear seats folded down. Speaking of size, the 2025 1 Series measures 4361mm long, 1800mm wide, and 1459mm tall.

Under the hood, the all-new 1 Series is available with various powertrains. The diesel range consists of the 118d and the 120d which both come with a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine and a 48V mild-hybrid system. The former makes 148 PS with 360 Nm of torque while the latter puts out 161 PS with 400 Nm of pull.

The lone gasoline-powered variant is the 120 which gets a 1.5-liter three-cylinder that produces 168 PS with 280 Nm. Both the gas and diesel-powered models are paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox that drives the front wheels.

Prefer something with more oomph? Look no further than the M135 xDrive which comes with a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged gas engine that generates nearly 300 PS and has 400 Nm of torque. This one is also mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox but benefits from an all-wheel drive system. 0 – 100 km/h is easily achieved in 4.9 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.

Sales of the 2025 BMW 1 Series will begin in October with the European market getting it first. That means other markets like the Philippines will most likely get it sometime next year. Hopefully, we won't have to wait that long for its arrival in the country.