German premium carmaker BMW’s five-door sports hatch, built as the all-new 1 series, makes its auto show debut at the Paris Motor Show in September 2004.

The much-anticipated new model series is 4.23 m in length, making it precisely 24 cm shorter than a 3-series saloon.   
“The typical BMW drive concept, powerful engines, high-grade equipment and the experience of sheer driving fun offer a new and unique alternative in this particular market segment,” the company said.
“The BMW 1 series offers the unique harmonious symbiosis of sporty driving characteristics and suitability for long-distance travel”, said Guenther Seemann, managing director, BMW Group Middle East. He also said the BMW 1 Series was one of the most economical in its class.”
The car has a long wheelbase with a short front overhang, a lower roofline with the typical C-pillar kink, a characteristic front end with the “kidney” grille and double headlamps. The luggage compartment offers 330 to 1,150 litres of storage space.
The 1 Series also has a front-mounted engine and rear wheel drive.
 Customers will have an immediate choice of four four-cylinder engines. A smooth-shifting manual six-speed gearbox (five-speed on the 116i) or, optionally, a comfortable six-speed automatic, deliver power to large-size 16-inch wheels with emergency running properties, ensuring the most dynamic performance available in this segment.
Robust large-disc brakes provide stopping power in any situation. The extensive range of standard safety equipment includes DSC (dynamic stability control), DBC (dynamic brake control), an electronic differential lock and a complete airbag system comprising head airbags for all seats.
In addition to the wide range of basic equipment, owners can individualise their BMW 1 Series with optional equipment. These include: convenient keyless access, Bluetooth mobile interface, sports seats with backrest width adjustment, acoustic PDC (park distance control) at the front and the rear, Bi-Xenon headlights and a choice of high-performance audio and navigation systems, which can also be operated centrally or by voice control utilising BMW’s state-of-the-art iDrive operating concept.
Following the phenomenal global and Middle East success of the X5, BMW has expanded its X-family with the new dynamic and equally versatile BMW X3, which combines the outstanding agility of a typical BMW with the wide range of practical features offered by a sports activity vehicle (SAV). The X3 is the first premium model in the SAV segment beneath the X5.
Delivering 231 bhp, the agile X3 3.0i reaches a top speed of up to 210km/h. A sports package is also available, with a high-speed set-up, providing a top speed of 224km/h. 
The new BMW 6 Series Coupé, meanwhile, continues BMW Group’s heritage of the first legendary 6 Series (1976 - 1989) and maintains the marque’s long tradition of large luxury coupés.