First BMW models with the FWD system to debut in 2014

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It is well known that the Germans from BMW are planning to introduce models benefiting from a front-wheel drive system, somehow against the tradition of the brand. Of course, we are not talking about the biggest and more important models in the range, BMW planning to fit some small-segment vehicles with the FWD system. Starting 2014, the Germans will reveal the 1 Series GT, a model adopting a front-wheel drive system. Later on, BMW might introduce the new traction system to other variants of the 1 Series range such as the Coupe and Convertible models.

However, this doesn’t mean that all the 1 Series models will be front-wheel drive as the Germans announced that the range can get up to six different body styles.

According to the first details, BMW will use the same platform that will underpin the next-generation Mini, scheduled to enter the market somewhere next year. We talk about the new UKL1 platform developed by BMW Group which will be also used by the British sub-brand most probably due to financial reasons.

Another important detail is that the first model within BMW’s range will be the 1 Series GT, a more practical version of the range, one of the six body variants BMW plans to introduce. However, we can’t predict if the new 1 Series GT will attract the customers or it will disappoint as the 5 Series GT in the United States. Well, the poor sales of the model mentioned above are mainly due to the fact the U.S. customers were waiting for a Touring variant.

The new UKL1 platform uses the Z-axle multilink rear suspension and MacPherson struts, the latest rumors announcing that a four-wheel drive system is more likely to be present too. Klaus Draeger, BMW Head of Development claimed that the German company will manufacture up to 800,000 units each year benefiting from the FWD system. Moreover, the same source adds that around 20 models in the range will benefit from the UKL1 platform in the next few years.