Is the imported BMW 1 Series rear-wheel drive?
2 Answers
The imported BMW 1 Series is rear-wheel drive, featuring a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The BMW 1 Series is a compact luxury car with dimensions of 4239mm in length, 1748mm in width, and 1421mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2660mm. Exterior-wise, the BMW 1 Series adopts BMW's new family design language, featuring a classic M-inspired three-section aerodynamic front bumper paired with a honeycomb grille. On the side profile, the M badge on the front fender highlights its sporty and exclusive identity, while a prominent character line starts from the front, runs through the door handles, and extends to the rear. The rear features a gray lower bumper with a rear diffuser and dual exhaust outlets. The BMW 1 Series comes standard with an 8.8-inch high-definition touchscreen display and the sixth-generation iDrive human-machine interface system.
Speaking of whether the imported BMW 1 Series is rear-wheel drive, I've actually researched it! The older imported 1 Series models, such as the two-door or hatchback versions before 2017, were indeed all rear-wheel drive. They felt particularly agile to drive, with the rear end following through corners, offering a pure driving pleasure. However, after the 2019 redesign, the new imported 1 Series switched to front-wheel drive, using BMW's UKL platform. While the space became larger, the classic handling feel was somewhat lost. This change was made to adapt to the market and attract more family-oriented users, as front-wheel drive is more fuel-efficient and easier to control. Currently, the top-end imported versions might come with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system. It's advisable to check the specific year and configuration before buying—don’t just rely on the brand label. Overall, long-time BMW fans might miss the rear-wheel-drive era, while the newer models focus on practicality. I have to say, the drivetrain makes a huge difference—when choosing a car, think carefully about whether you prioritize sportiness or practicality.