BMW 1 Series History

BMW 1 Series History

BMW 1 Series History

Introduction

When the BMW 1 Series was first introduced in 2004, it reflected many aspects of the BMW 2002, which was popular throughout North American in the 60s and 70s. Since its introduction, the 1 Series has established itself as the epitome of BMW vehicles, showing that the carmaker can still produce the ultimate driving machine.

Early History

The first generation BMW 1 Series is a compact luxury car that was the successor to the BMW Compact and was produced at BMW’s Leipzig and Regensburg, Germany, assembly plants. It first entered the market in 2004 as the smallest and cheapest vehicle in the brand’s lineup, taking the place of the BMW 3 Series Compact range.

Recent History

Though it was first introduced as four different E-models, the BMW 1 Series has now discontinued producing the 3-door hatchback (E81) and 5-door hatchback (E87), replacing them with the F20 and F21 models, which were first introduced at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. BMW has also tested the BMW ActiveE, an electric car based on the BMW 1 Series lineup.

BMW 1 Series Awards

  • 2013 Red Dot Design Award
  • 2012 iF Design Award Gold
  • 2012 iF Design Award
  • 2012 Red Dot Design Award
  • 2011 Good Design Award

2013 BMW 1 Series Overview