Size matters. Sony’s...
Size matters. Sony’s latest sat-nav has the largest display we’ve tried, at 4.8 inches. The NV-U93T provides an easy-to-see widescreen view, while the slim design means it isn’t too heavy.
The showroom-ready 1-Series...
The showroom-ready 1-Series is one of the year"s most eagerly anticipated new models. Flagship versions will be aimed at the Audi A3 and forthcoming Mercedes B-Class, while entry-level cars will offer an alternative to family favourites such as the VW Golf, Vauxhall Astra and Ford Focus.
The magazine"s shots show how the headlights have evolved from the design hinted at by the CS-1 concept, which debuted at 2002"s Geneva expo. The flanks reveal BMW"s flame-surface styling philosophy, but are also reminiscent of the current 3-Series, with curved panels trimmed with deep sills and flared wheelarches.
At the rear, the car has a more conventional light arrangement than expected. Early spy shots suggested it would sport lamps similar to the Z4"s, but our latest pictures show the designers have gone for a more rectangular cluster.
The 1-Series will bridge the gap between the BMW-owned MINI and the 3-Series. It"s based on a completely new platform developed by the company"s engineers to set new standards of interior space and design for the family car market. BMW"s popular Z-Axle design is likely to feature to ensure the rear-wheel-drive model"s chassis is as sporty as possible, without spoiling ride quality and refinement.
The company is determined to make its mark with its latest car and, aside from Mercedes" C-Class Sports Coup탩, the newcomer will become the class"s only rear-wheel-drive model. Available in three-door, four-door and cabrio guise, the 1-Series will use four-cylinder power only. The flagship will be a 250bhp 2.4-litre M1, out in 2005. At launch, 125bhp 1.8 or 150bhp 2.0-litre petrol units will be offered, plus a pair of 2.0-litre diesels with 115bhp or 150bhp. New six-speed manual gearboxes will be standard, with an SMG-style semi-auto sequential shift optional on more upmarket cars. Aluminium body panels have been employed to keep the weight to a minimum.
The 1-Series goes on sale here in the summer, with prices tipped to start from around í‚á£12,000 and rise to more than í‚á£20,000 for higher-spec models.