We're told by the folks at Motor Authority the car pictured here is an early test-mule for the next-generation 1-series hatch due most likely in either late 2011 or early 2012. Makeshift fender flares indicate we could expect the new model to sport a widened track both front and rear, confirming the next 1-series will be bigger than the current model. The larger footprint will also improve the car's dynamics and road-holding abilities and hopefully increase the headroom and legroom in the rear seat to move the demographic of buyers from parents with two child amputees to parents with two children with growth hormone deficiencies. [Motor Authority]

Probably not. If we had to put money down we'd say that this is just a car here for engineering evaluation purposes, an advertisement or something else. Nevertheless, we can dream can't we? (Thanks to Phil for the photos)