This is the first time we´ve spotted a 3-door prototype of the upcoming next generation BMW 1-Series. Looking closely at the camouflage in the high-resolution photo, it appears that a seam line has been marked with black tape to portray a rear door outline, although no door is there. Another clue is the angled B-pillar. Previously, we´ve seen only 5-door variants of the next-generation 1-Series prototypes.
But both body stules reveal the 1-Series sleeker, more extended look. If not in actual dimensions, the new design may just make the 1-Series look less compact. And in those previous shots we spotted a 5-door 1-Series prototype carrying some of the markers of the current 135i, with the single, roundtailpipes at each end of the rear, hinting that we will see a 135i, with the new N55 petrol single turbo, twin scroll straight-six engine with 302 hp (225kW/306PS) recently introduced in the current 135i coupé and cabriolet models. The next-generation BMW 1-Series is expected to debut next year (2011) as a 2012 model.
