BMW 1 Series - 3 door Variant Introduced

The biggest news about the tiny little 1 series is that BMW debuts several new technologies with it's introduction:

• Brake Energy Regeneration (iGR) - The system uses an Intelligent Alternator Control (IAC) and an Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recycle previously lost energy, in turn saving fuel. This is achieved as the IAC reduces drag on the engine by only engaging when required to charge the battery, whereas a traditional alternator is always pulling power from the engine. Additionally, the energy generated by the engine on over-run (under braking or descending a hill) was previously wasted. Now this lost energy is utilised by the IAC to charge the battery. iGR alone is responsible for a three per cent improvement in fuel economy.
• Automatic Start-Stop function to cut fuel consumption. Standard on all manual transmission models (except 130i), the system automatically switches the engine off when the vehicle is stationary and the driver puts the car into neutral. To restart the driver only need engage the clutch again before pulling away in the normal manner. Should he not want to use the Automatic Start-Stop function it can be manually switched off.
• The use of Electric Power Steering results in a 90 per cent energy saving compared to a conventional mechanical hydraulic steering system. Power assistance is now provided by an electric motor that works only when required, such as turning a corner. Other fuel saving enhancements have been made courtesy of various ancillary devices, such as the air-conditioning power supply being disconnected from the drivetrain when not in use. Even flaps behind the kidney grille improve economy, closing up for improved aerodynamic efficiency should the engine require less airflow. The feature also improves cold starting times.

The specs:

• Gasoline
  
• 130i - 6 cylinders :: 265 hp :: 232.3 lb-ft torque :: 34.0 mpg :: 0-62mph in 6.0 sec.
• 120i - 4 cylinders :: 210 hp :: 154.9 lb-ft torque :: 44.1 mpg :: 0-62mph in 7.7 sec.
• 118i - 4 cylinders :: 190 hp :: 140.1 lb-ft torque :: 47.9 mpg :: 0-62mph in 8.7 sec.
• Diesel
  
• 120d - 4 cylinders :: 177 hp :: 258.1 lb-ft torque :: 57.6 mpg :: 0-62mph in 7.5 sec.
• 118d - 4 cylinders :: 143 hp :: 221.3 lb-ft torque :: 60.1 mpg :: 0-62mph in 8.9 sec.*

The 118d is BMW's most efficient automobile. Of course there is very little chance that BMWUSA would bring this car to America, and the reason? the mini. They would not want to introduce a car that would compete in the same arena as the beloved mini. I say bring it because guys would drive small cars also.