Future FWD 1-series models to be serious sporty cars

[Jason]

We previously reported that BMW will be introducing a front-wheel model for the next generation 1-series (in addition to traditional RWD models). The FWD 1-series models will likely be receiving 4-cylinder and 3-cylinder versions, leading some to lament that the FWD configuration along with a small motor points to these future models are being more about efficiency/budget than performance.

However, if Autocar's "sources" are to be believed, the future entry level 3-cylinder 1-series models are not considered as "entry level" models, but will serious, refined, sporting engined cars with great CO2 figures. We certainly hope this to be true and that BMW's sporty car philosophy continues throughout its future lineup.

[mafoofan]

Originally Posted by Jason

We previously reported that BMW will be introducing a front-wheel model for the next generation 1-series (in addition to traditional RWD models). The FWD 1-series models will likely be receiving 4-cylinder and 3-cylinder versions, leading some to lament that the FWD configuration along with a small motor points to these future models are being more about efficiency/budget than performance.

However, if Autocar's "sources" are to be believed, the future entry level 3-cylinder 1-series models are not considered as "entry level" models, but will serious, refined, sporting engined cars with great CO2 figures. We certainly hope this to be true and that BMW's sporty car philosophy continues throughout its future lineup.

That sounds awfully sweet to the ears, but that's exactly what you'd expect a "source" at BMW to say. No one with half a brain for marketing is going to bluntly let on that there will be performance compromises. However, the basic facts are clear: (1) BMW would not be switching to a 3-cylinder engine if not for emissions and PR concerns, (2) time and money that could be spent on refining and improving the existing 6-cylinder engines is being diverted, and (3) the new engines will not benefit as much from BMW's pre-existing R&D as a 6-cylinder would.

[Feyd]

Originally Posted by Jason

the future entry level 3-cylinder 1-series models are not considered as "entry level" models, but will serious, refined, sporting engined cars

Not buying it.

[Robert]

Okay, we have that already. Mini Cooper

[mafoofan]

Originally Posted by Robert

Okay, we have that already. Mini Cooper

The sad truth is that most BMW buyers could not really tell you what the essential differences are between a 1-series and a Mini. They only know that they look different and have different badges (one of which they are willing to pay a lot more for than the other).

I was just at an Atlanta BMW dealership a few weeks ago. Not one car on the lot had a manual transmission. The dealer there told me that customers treat BMW, Lexus, Benz, etc., interchangeably. So, blame the stupids.

[ptack]

And everytime it stops in the center ring an endless number of clowns will pour out.

[SlicktopTTZ]

Are you serious? What are the performance advantages of FWD for sport driving on-road? Exactly, they are taking a step backwards.

I hate the word "sporty".

Yeah, the Civic Si is real "sporty" too!

[mafoofan]

Originally Posted by SlicktopTTZ

Are you serious? What are the performance advantages of FWD for sport driving on-road?

Clearly you don't understand EfficientDynamics.

[1love]

FWD!!! Good grief

[TMR013]

Face it Addicts, we live in a new world CAFE and CO2 standards. Even Ferrari is talking sub v8 engines.
It's going to get very expensive to maintain our way of life.

[mafoofan]

Originally Posted by TMR013

Face it Addicts, we live in a new world CAFE and CO2 standards and . Even Ferrari is talking sub v8 engines.
It's going to get very expensive to maintain our way of life.

Well, what's upsetting to me is that many changes are being made to improve perceived efficiancy amongst unknowledgeable buyers rather than improve actual efficiency. For reasons that defy logic, people consider cylinder count as important as actual fuel efficiency ratings when judging fuel efficiency.

[Cuz5150]

Originally Posted by TMR013

Face it Addicts, we live in a new world CAFE and CO2 standards. Even Ferrari is talking sub v8 engines.
It's going to get very expensive to maintain our way of life.

Yep time is running out on V-8's or High Output engines Im gathering my pennies and i'm ordering an M3 or Gt500. We are going backwards to the early 1980's. You will not catch me driving a 3cyl or FWD that's labeled "sporty"

[Advevo]

Bmw motorsport department went from 800 workers to 140.

Bmw wil be going further and further away from the sporty image it once had. It s no all about efficient dynamics.

Audi on the otherhand get more sportier everyday.

[ChrisK]

I was afraid of the day when BMW would start making cars like Mbenz. The driver is disconnected. Not good. aka the new 5 series.

I really wish BMW would stop making all these different cars. The brand is being so badly diluted.

[BMWinNorthdakota]

I get a kick out of the "End of BMW" comments.

[NewYearsBoy]

Glad I have my 2010.... ;^)

[jeremyc74]

Joy! (is the sound of marketing BS coming your way)

[hubble bubble]

Originally Posted by TMR013

Face it Addicts, we live in a new world CAFE and CO2 standards. Even Ferrari is talking sub v8 engines.
It's going to get very expensive to maintain our way of life.

Yup, we are at the equivalent of the late-60s/early-70s, the peak of the muscle car and horse-power races. The new 2016 milage laws and EU concerns for CO2 emissions will be the automotive equivalent of 1974. Dramatic drops in hp across the board.

[jeremyc74]

Originally Posted by TMR013

Face it Addicts, we live in a new world CAFE and CO2 standards. Even Ferrari is talking sub v8 engines.
It's going to get very expensive to maintain our way of life.

I'd agree with you if it weren't for the fact that BMW is cranking out 450Hp, 5000lb SAVs left and right that get 13MPG.

BMW's current management has their heads up their asses. The fleet average wouldn't suck if it weren't for all the pigs they've introduced over the last couple of years.

They've lost the plot as far as I'm concerned. The company that used to build the "Ultimate Driving Machine" has turned into the "Ultimate Image Machine".

People "in the know" used to buy BMWs because of the way they handled and performed. Even the larger cars were special in their class. The general public didn't really understand all that, but they wanted to look like they did, so they followed along and that allowed BMW to continue building great driving cars for enthusiasts.

Now, they're abandoning the true performance enthusiast more and more with every generation, and catering more and more to the people who are just looking for brand cache'. It's getting to the point where it's hard for even long term, loyal enthusiasts to carry the torch without looking foolish, and they're moving on.

Eventually they're going to be left with nothing but the people who want the image.

[BoostedTerp]

The thread title is a contradiction.

[bradleyland]

Originally Posted by jeremyc74

I'd agree with you if it weren't for the fact that BMW is cranking out 450Hp, 5000lb SAVs left and right that get 13MPG.

BMW's current management has their heads up their asses. The fleet average wouldn't suck if it weren't for all the pigs they've introduced over the last couple of years.

They've lost the plot as far as I'm concerned. The company that used to build the "Ultimate Driving Machine" has turned into the "Ultimate Image Machine".

People "in the know" used to buy BMWs because of the way they handled and performed. Even the larger cars were special in their class. The general public didn't really understand all that, but they wanted to look like they did, so they followed along and that allowed BMW to continue building great driving cars for enthusiasts.

Now, they're abandoning the true performance enthusiast more and more with every generation, and catering more and more to the people who are just looking for brand cache'. It's getting to the point where it's hard for even long term, loyal enthusiasts to carry the torch without looking foolish, and they're moving on.

Eventually they're going to be left with nothing but the people who want the image.

The question is, where do we go from here? What other manufacturer will step up?

[mafoofan]

Originally Posted by bradleyland

What other manufacturer will step up?

None--until the whole market shifts. It is far more profitable to sell to non-enthusiasts than enthusiasts. Things will stay this way so long as credit is cheap and Joe Anybody can buy a BMW.