Sedan will be first 1 Series FWD

The next generation of BMW's 1 Series will be built on a front-wheel drive platform which will debut under the next generation Mini hatch to be unveiled at Los Angeles in November, writes Brian Byrne.

The first 1 Series on the new platform will be a compact sedan to challenge the Audi A3 saloon and the Mercedes-Benz CLA. It's expected to arrive in showrooms in 2017.

The platform will allow for an optional AWD format, suggesting that AWD versions of both the 1 Series and Mini will be part of the lineup.