BMW will set in motion a new lot of FWD (front-wheel drive) hatchback door in the succeeding few years. Of those, one will be a debut-level BMW-marked fomite, located underneath the 1-Series, planned to unveiling in 2013.

The new model is anticipated to contend against the likes of the Audi A2 and the Mercedes A-Class. The body-style of this BMW will be similar to those models – a high roof 5-door, 5-seat hatchback door with a diagonally mounted engine and gearbox to render for a shorter poke bonnet and more cabin space. BMW will also provide a more sporting version, an entirely unlike model, to rival the A1.

The Bavarian car manufacturer will be setting in motion the next generation MINI in 2014 which will portion out its front-wheel drive style with those new BMW models. The BMW plans to make up to 1 million front-wheel drive vehicles – badged as both MINIs and BMWs – by 2015. A BMW source told the Autocar that “Both brands possess a comprehensible and individual image. Our research shows BMW and Mini appeal to different buyers.”

Autocar states that BMW will also be extending the 1-Series as a front-wheel drive while still holding back the rear-wheel drive version.

BMW has affirmed the hearsays that it will construct front-wheel drive cars. Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW announced this at the Annual Accounts Press Conference for 2010. He stated that “The small car segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future. Heresy, BMW fans – We wouldn’t worry too much – there seems little chance that BMW will make a wholesale switch from powering the rear wheels to the fronts, especially for its mainstream models like the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series – but the addition of a FWD chassis will make it easier for the automaker to share platforms with other companies and to reduce [its] fleet’s carbon-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020.”

Dr. Reithofer stated further that “We consider carbon fiber a cutting-edge material for the auto industry. Our efforts will make sustainable mobility possible in urban environments.”