2015 BMW 1 Series 5-door (F20) LCI Photos, engines & full specs

BMW didn’t want to waste too much time, and four years after the unveiling of the second generation of the 1 Series, the F20, it launched a refreshed version of it, and the changes were significant.

Sometimes, automakers refresh their models with minimal aesthetic upgrades, so some needed a keen eye for detail to spot differences. That happened in the previous 1 Series (the E8x generation) when the automaker introduced a new set of bumpers with slightly noticeable changes. However, the Life Cycle Impulse, as BMW likes to call its facelifted models, of the F20 looked almost like a completely new vehicle. Furthermore, changes weren’t limited to the exterior; they were also applied to the interior and, most importantly, under the hood. There, BMW had to update or introduce new engines to comply with the Euro 6 emission standards that were mandatory in September 2015.

The front of the car showed a significant improvement over its non-facelifted sibling. Instead of triangular headlights, the 2015 BMW 1 Series five-door had a pair that resembled those from its bigger brothers, the 3 and the 5 Series, and were available as full-LEDs. In addition, the kidney grille didn’t look that large anymore and was surrounded by a thick chromed rim. The lower side of the bumper was also redesigned. It featured a narrow trapezoidal air intake in the middle flanked by scoops that could integrate the available fog lamps. Furthermore, customers could opt for an M-Sport package with an aggressive look and broader front air intakes in the apron.

From its profile, the changes were less visible but existent. BMW emphasized the ascending creased line that crossed the car from the front fenders to the taillights. Even in its five-door shape, it still looked sporty, especially when fitted with the optional five double-spoke wheels provided by the automaker’s motorsport department, the famous M. Customers could get the 2015 BMW 1 Series 5-door with up to 18-inch alloy wheels, depending on the grade, while base models had 16-inch sets. Out back, the redesigned LED taillights were extended from the quarter panels to the redesigned tailgate. Their L-shaped stripes and horizontal shape made the vehicle look wider.

Inside, there were other significant upgrades as well. For instance, the BMW Connected Drive system went from the previously used CIC to the NBT and was standard across the range. Lower grades came equipped with a 6.5-inch color screen, while an 8.8-inch one was available as an option. The only things that couldn’t be upgraded were the rear passengers’ knee room and the trunk space. Everything else, including materials, features, and amenities, was new or improved.

However, the most significant upgrade happened under the hood. The German automaker retired the N-family of engines, replacing it with the much more improved B-family. The entry-level 2015 BMW 1 Series was powered by a turbocharged inline-three unit that produced a mere 109 PS (107 hp). At the other end of the gasoline-powered versions, the 1 Series boasted a 340 PS (335 hp) twin-turbo B58 unit, which was later installed on other high-performance M vehicles. Diesel fans were not disappointed by the new B47 inline-four turbocharged unit, which produced between 150 PS (148 hp) and 224 PS (221 hp). Besides the entry-level versions, the car was available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic that sent the power to the rear or in all corners.