[dopper99]

From here, new article today..... http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/bmw/1-s...-gen-bmw-hatch

"The new Mk3 BMW 1 Series will use a front-wheel drive MINI platform for added efficiency when it is revealed late in 2018"

Which means .....

"A longer wheelbase and absence of a propshaft will free up more space for passengers in the back........"

However .....

"As the UKL platform is only compatible with four-cylinder engines, that means the next flagship M140i will have to ditch its sonorous straight-six engine in favour of a turbocharged four-cylinder. "

"Not only that, but it will also switch from rear-wheel drive to xDrive four-wheel drive."

So the M Lite will need to have a different interior to allow a propshaft to the rear wheels for xdrive anyway.

Lobb's prediction was correct, gone is the glorious 6 cylinder for the M140i. Maybe they should call it a more suitably named M120i.

[ronime]

Originally Posted by dopper99

So the M Lite will need to have a different interior to allow a propshaft to the rear wheels for xdrive anyway.

No, the "propshaft" tunnel is already there to stiffen the bodyshell anyway. It's the same floorpan as the X1 and MINI Countryman/Clubman which are already available in FWD and AWD variants.

[dopper99]

Originally Posted by ronime

No, the "propshaft" tunnel is already there to stiffen the bodyshell anyway. It's the same floorpan as the X1 and MINI Countryman/Clubman which are already available in FWD and AWD variants.

So what do they mean by this comment?

"A longer wheelbase and absence of a propshaft will free up more space for passengers in the back........"

I assume the hump in the rear centre foot well is not there, based on that comment?

[JustChris]

Yeah I had to laugh at the space vs some models X Drive contradiction!.....unless its an electric motor set up at the back

[HighlandPete]

Originally Posted by dopper99

So what do they mean by this comment?

"A longer wheelbase and absence of a propshaft will free up more space for passengers in the back........"

I assume the hump in the rear centre foot well is not there, based on that comment?

Written by a motor mag... they understand these things.