BMW has released details of the all-new BMW 1-series, set to go on sale in the UK later this year.

As always most of the headlines will go to the ultra-frugal diesel versions, but BMW has also confirmed the arrival of two new twin-turbocharged petrol versions, the more powerful of which boasts 170 bhp.  

Visually, the new car sticks closely to the script established by the first generation, keeping its predecessor’s clearly rear-drive proportions. Design has clearly been influenced by the 5-series and 6-series too - especially the new XL version of the corporate kidney radiator grille. It’s slightly bigger inside and out, with an extra 30mm in the wheelbase. 

Buyers will be able to choose between various petrol and diesel four-cylinder engines. Stop-start is standard across the range to trim emissions, and some models will also feature a new ECO PRO system to boost economy further.

As before, the most efficient model in the range is the 116d, with a 114bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine, a respectable 10.3 second 0-62mph time and claimed economy of 66mpg. BMW has also confirmed an even-greener 116d EfficientDynamics model will follow with official figures of 74mpg and 99g/km of CO2 - good enough to earn it free road tax.

The 118d and 120d use the same 2.0-litre diesel powerplant in different states of tune, offering 143bhp and 184bhp respectively - good enough to fire the 120d from 0-62mph in an official 7.2 seconds.

But it’s the new generation of twin-turbocharged direct injection 1.6-litre petrol engines that promise most excitement from a petrolhead’s perspective. Both use 1.6-litre motors, but BMW’s ‘power equivalent’ badging sees them labeled as 116i (136bhp) and 118i (170bhp). BMW will also be offering the car with an optional eight-speed automatic transmission which is claimed to deliver better economy than the six-speed manual ‘box. 

Sales start in September, with prices kicking off from £19,375 for the entry-level 116i. The 118i costs £21,985. The 116d is the starting point of the diesel line-up, and is priced from £20,195, while the 118d weighs in at £22,030. Topping the 1-Series range is the 120d, which is £23,480.