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In an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer said the Munich company will include both normal and turbo versions of the 1.6-liter four-cylinder in the next-generation 1 Series, though whether they will be available across the model lineup or just on specific cars remains to be seen. Both the turbo and 118 horsepower base engine are currently available in the second-generation Mini, as well as versions of the Peugeot 207 hatchback, wagon, and hardtop convertible.

Adding the much-admired Mini four-cylinder to the 1 Series looks like a good move, though it's unlikely either engine will ever make it to the U.S. Here the 1 Series is exclusively a performance coupe and convertible, but in Europe the car also comes in three and five-door hatchback form with four-cylinder and diesel power. Currently the 1's most powerful four-cylinder achieves only 168 horsepower and 155 lb-ft. of torque (versus 173 and 177 lb-ft. for the 1.6-liter), so stepping up to the Mini's engine will add a welcome dose of power.

Interestingly, Reithofer also hinted in the interview that the upcoming 7 Series flagship, due out by the end of the year, will include a hybrid model. BMW was a joint developer (along with Daimler and GM) of the new two-mode system in the Yukon and Tahoe hybrids as well as the Saturn Green Line 2, and though few details are known about the hybrid 7, it seems likely the car will employ a similar powertrain. No word yet on whether the hybrid will launch at the same time as the regular model or at a later date.

With gas prices continuing to rise, the timing would seem perfect for BMW to introduce a hybrid version of its largest sedan. But Americans are taking a second look at smaller cars, too, and suddenly a rear-wheel drive hatchback from the makers of the ultimate driving machine sounds pretty good. And with the turbo four-cylinder from the Mini Cooper S under the hood, here's guessing if BMW ever brought the 1 Series hatch stateside, they'd find no shortage of buyers.

Source:  Motor Trend  

Article Date: May 08, 2008
Car Accociations: NEW_MINI
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