New BMW 1-Series (F70) Teased with Sporty M-Badged Version

BMW has teased the new F70-gen 1-Series hatchback model, possibly arriving alongside a sporty M-badged version.

In the midst of electromobility adoption, it is good to see BMW not abandoning some of its smaller, ICE-powered models, with the Bavarian automaker teasing the new 1-Series hatchback. Despite having its own internal codename (F70), this new hatchback will be a heavily updated version of the current F40-gen model.

The new F70 1-Series made its first, shadow-draped cameo in the short teaser video published via BMW’s official Instagram page, where it was shown alongside the previous-gen BMW 1-Series models. Said video was accompanied by a caption that read, “Ready for the new 1? First we celebrate the last 20 years.”

What’s more interesting is the fact that BMW M division’s Instagram page has shared a profile shot of this new 1-Series model with the description, “There is a new ONE coming soon." This strongly indicates that the new 1-Series will arrive alongside a souped-out M-badged version, although we can’t be sure whether it’ll be a full-fledged M model like the BMW M3, or just the same treatment granted to the M135i model.

F40-gen BMW M135i xDrive hot-hatch

As for the upgrades, we can expect the new 1-Series hatchback to underpin the same BMW UKL2 architecture used on the current-gen model, as well as the new X2 and the ICE-powered MINI Cooper. While it is slated to retain the same five-door hatch bodystyle as its predecessor, the new 1-Series will get redesigned front and rear bumpers, plus new lighting units that will make it look closer to newer BMW models.

While no words were mentioned on its powertrain setup, we can expect the new 1-Series to get the same engine lineup as its predecessor, with the range-topping M135i xDrive model being powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cyl petrol mill that delivers 302 HP and 450 NM. With the M Division possibly in the picture, we can expect the full-fledged M version of the new 1-Series to boast a more potent powertrain setup, possibly matching the likes of the Audi RS3 Sportback and the Mercedes-AMG A45 4Matic+.

The all-new F70-gen BMW 1-Series hatchback is poised to make its debut some time later this year, with Carscoops saying that previous BMW paperwork suggested that the debut might take place as early as July 2024.