By THEODORE OPARA

WITH a longer body and wheel base, wider tracks than the previous model, the all new BMW 1 Series has began a new era in the Nigerian premium compact car segment.

The 1 Series was first launched into the market in 2007 and underwent a model change this year with new features and technological innovations.

Speaking at media launch of the all-new BMW 1 Series at their new showroom in Lekki, Lagos, the General Manager, Coscharis Motors, Mr. Sola Adigun explained that the car has grown both in length and breadth with more power and lasted innovations.

He said: “The all-new BMW 1 Series body is now 85mm longer while the wheelbase is now 30mm longer. Its front and rear tracks too have increased by 51mm and 72mm respectively compared to the previous model.”

This means that the all new BMW 1 Series boast more interior space and sportier look with 21mm rear legroom while luggage compartment has increased from 330 to 360 litres. But with the rear seats folded down, the new BMW 1 Series offers you a maximum of 1,200 litres of luggage space.

Mr. Adigun said the new BMW 1 Series stands out in the compact premium car segment. Apart from its array of innovative features, the 1 Series is still the only car in this segment with rear-drive.

Designed to be more sportier and powerful, the new 1 Series is now more fuel efficient, and luxurious.

“The outstanding interior and exclusive features are second to none, occupying a distinctive niche within its segment.

Available in two variants, Sportline and urban, the all-new 1 Series comes in two petrol engines, a 1.6 and 1.8 litre power-plants that deliver powerful performance, yet lenient with fuel consumption.

“The car is youthful, and has a lively image enhanced by design elements highlighting the maturity and premium status of the new BMW 1 Series. The BMW Sportline and Urbanline provide added scope for personalisation using exclusive interior and exterior design featuers and equipment.

Described as a market leader in its segment, the General Manager said that the all-new BMW 1 Series is packed with array of latest technological innovations.

“With its BMW EfficiencyDynamics technology, the new 1 Series is the fist in its class with optional eight-speed automatic transmission, automatic stop/start function in both manual and automatic transmissions,” he added.

Continuing, he said “it has significantly improved comfort and unique handling, thanks to the rear-wheel drive, in-line engines, perfectly balanced weight distribution and advanced suspension technology. Double-joint cross-strut front axle: five-link rear axle, high-precision electromechanical power steering with no interference from the drive train. It also has optional variable sports steering, DSC (Driving Stability Control), Dynamic Traction Control and Electronically locking differential as standard features.

The new 1 Series made extensive use of intelligent energy management systems, including brake energy regeration and electromechanical power steering. It also boasts high torsion-resistant body for increased responsiveness and passengers protection. This is in addition to front, side and head airbags. Loaded with array of technological innovations, the all-new BMW 1 Series has a BMW Connected Drive, a comprehensive and unique selection of optional driver assistance systems and mobility services.

Also speaking during the launch, the Executive Director, BMW Motors, Mr. Raju Sawlani noted that the improvements in the new BMW 1 Series was aimed at making it consolidate on its class leadership. According to him, Coscharis targets to sell between 50 to 100 units of the car annually giving the fact that it is a premium car that is targeted at the high and mighty in the society.