Spied: 2013 BMW 1-Series Hybrid

So the Germans were wrong about the market’s desire for hybrids, and now they are trying hard to catch up. Proof? Even the 1-series, BMW's self-proclaimed "spritual successor" of the 2002, is slated to gain a hybrid powertrain. As these spy photos show, prototypes using current 1er bodies are on the road. And while we don't expect the 1-series to become available as a full hybrid, the next generation is almost sure to get an electric motor and a pack of batteries to allow owners an extra degree of eco-smugness.

While this 1-series hatch may seem unfamiliar to you, it is the standard body style for most other markets. Pretty it ain't, but it provides a nice, flexible cargo area and works well in urban habitats. The next-generation 1-series will be based on the 3-series platform, as it is today, and it will be available with several body styles again, including hatch, coupe, and convertible.

Even today, the European-market 1-series comes with a full plate of fuel-saving technologies, which BMW bundles under the "Efficient Dynamics" moniker. Stop/start systems, brake-energy recuperation, and low-friction engine internals are all part of the package. We can also attest to the low fuel consumption of the Efficient Dynamics–equipped 2.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel in the 123d—we got 36 mpg when we tested it earlier this year. That’s close to what you’ll get with Japanese hybrids, but the Bimmer is twice the fun.

But for marketing purposes, "Efficient Dynamics" just does not have the same clout as "hybrid.” So BMW has decided to jump in with both feet; the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7-series models were clearly just the beginning.

We expect the hybrid 1-series to be based on a three- or four-cylinder gas engine, and, as in the ActiveHybrid 7, the electric motor will give the little car a bit of extra boost and save you fuel in city driving. (The X6 hybrid is a more complex full hybrid that can run on electricity alone.) Of course, the hybrid system will also make an already heavy car even heavier.

The 1-series hybrid will be available in the U.S., as the gas-electric vehicle is far more accepted here than in somewhat more skeptical Europe. There will be strong competition: Lexus says its upcoming Euro-market compact hatch, previewed this year as the LF-Ch concept, will only come as a hybrid, and Honda's upcoming CRZ sports coupe also will have a standard hybrid powertrain. But here's what we like best about the 1-series compared to these competitors: You still get to choose. Take the hybrid or leave it.

Thanks to: Car and Driver