Car News

 The car isn’t likely to be a plug in hybrid, but a hybrid system is expected. And rather than a diesel engine, 2012 BMW M1 would use conventional gasoline motor, likely the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 found in cars like the X6 Active Hybrid.

The powertrain will bundle a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine with an electric motor, a combination which in production trim should deliver more than 350 horsepower and nearly 600 pound-feet of torque. Mated to a dual-clutch gearbox, the hybrid system will propel the future M1 from zero to 60 in less than 5 seconds. Top speed will be electronically governed to 155 mph, while fuel economy is projected to be class-leading.

Other production features adapted from the concept include an ultralow ride height, active aerodynamics, aggressive styling and cutting-edge technology.The new M1 is anticipated to target the Audi R8, suggesting a sticker price of more than $115,000.