THIS is the first picture of BMW’s three-door 1-series, which ushers in a raft of changes to the existing five-door range.

Due on sale in the spring, the 1-series family also benefits from a host of technical changes aimed at reducing emissions and improving fuel economy.

All models will be fitted with brake energy regeneration (using an alternator to transfer lost power – such as when the engine is one the over-run – to recharge the battery), automatic stop-start function, lower rolling resistance tyres and a gearshift change indicator to encourage economical driving.

In the 118d – the most economical car BMW has ever produced – it contributes to claimed combined economy of 60.1mpg. Other engines promise improved economy of up to 24%.

In terms of styling, the five-door model gets a refreshed interior and exterior and features a larger ‘kidney grille’ and a more pronounced spoiler for a sportier look. The rear gets a restyled bumper and new lights. The new three-door version gets the same styling cues but with larger and frameless passenger doors and buyers get the choice of four or five-seat configuration.