Currently reading: BMW Concept Compact Sedan revealed at Guangzhou motor show
New BMW concept previews a China-only version of the 1 Series saloon

BMW has revealed its new Concept Compact Sedan at the Guangzhou motor show, previewing the China-only 1 Series Saloon.

The stylish four-door concept sits on 20in alloy wheels and features BMW's familiar kidney grille design at the front with large air intakes and LED headlights. 

The interior of the concept features an 8.8in free-standing infotainment display as well as wood and brushed aluminium trim. BMW hasn't specified how much space is inside the concept, merely saying that passengers on the rear bench can enjoy an "unaccustomed level of space and openness for a car in this class".

BMW hasn't yet revealed what engines will power the new compact saloon when it goes on sale in China, but they're likely to be cherry picked from within the current 1 Series range.

Speaking at the Guangzhou show, BMW design boss Karim Habib said: "The characterful design of the BMW Concept Compact Sedan embodies the driving pleasure offered by a sporting car with minimised exterior dimensions. It is as distinctive as it is essential – and, as such, it injects new life into the compact segment. This four-door sedan stands for everything that sets BMW apart."

An early test mule for the 1 Series saloon was spotted at the Nürburgring earlier this year, prompting speculation that the model had been given the green light for Europe. However, Autocar understands that the new saloon will instead only be sold in China, a decision prompted by the continiuing decline of traditional saloon models in Europe.

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Jinx59 20 November 2015

A very attractive looking car

A very attractive looking car indeed.
fadyady 26 March 2015

Long live RWD

Rest assured the new FWD 1-Series would have class leading handling nevertheless I'm sad to see the end of road for the RWD in this segment. It's another victory for the bland wagon.
Overdrive 26 March 2015

autocar wrote:..The current 1

autocar wrote:

..The current 1 Series hatchback is the last that will be offered with rear-wheel drive..

Noooo! There goes the last element that made the 1-series unique among the hatches.

I could live with the 2-series MPV being FWD, but the 1-series? As someone said already, now there'll be nothing to distinguish the 1-series from your Golfs, A3s and Focuses (Foci?) etc. Sad day.