The standard BMW 1-Series GT was caught testing many times, but this is the first time our spy photographers managed to catch the longer, seven-seat version. To be completely honest with you, the car was not really “testing;” rather, was just parked inside a BMW->ke178 test facility.

This makes it pretty easy to spot the differences between the new, seven-seat version and the standard 1-Series GT->ke313. Up to the B-pillars, the two cars look the same, but this is where the changes come. The rear doors are longer and the overhang at the back is also longer on the seven-seat model. The back is also more upright, offering more room for the rear passengers.

The seven-seat version will be built on the same UKL1 platform as the standard 1-Series GT and will be offered with a front-wheel-drive setup. Under the hood, the engine lineup will again be shared with the standard version and will include the new three-cylinder, hybrid three-cylinder and four-cylinder powertrains.

The standard 1-Series GT will make its world debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and the seven-seat version is expected to arrive six months later.

Updated 05/23/2013: Our spy photographers managed to caught the upcoming 1-Series GT Seven-Seater out for another testing session.

Click past the jump to read more about the seven-seat BMW 1-Series GT.

2014 BMW 1-Series GT Seven-Seater

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 BMW 1-Series GT Seven-Seater
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Spy shots

Unfortunately, the seven-seat 1-Series GT was only caught from the side and it is pretty difficult to see what the front and rear will look like. However, we do expect it to look almost identical to the Concept Active Hybrid that previewed the 1-Series GT.

You should expect a slightly raked front grille flanked by a pair of LED headlights, just like we saw on the 3 Series and a pair of taillights similar to what we have seen in all the latest BMW models.

Competitors

Mercedes B-Class

The BMW 1-Series GT was built as a direct competitor to the Mercedes B-Class, which is also going to receive a seven-seat version at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The new-generation B-Class is offered with a new four-cylinder gasoline engine, as well as a new four-cylinder diesel engine. The petrol engine will be offered in two versions that produce 122 horsepower and156 horsepower. The diesel engine will also be offered in two variants that produce 109 and 136 horsepower.