When BMW touted the 1-series coupe at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007, the jumbo-screen was overwhelmed with videos and stills of the BMW 2002 as the automaker attempted to associate the new 128i and 135i with BMW’s iconic coupe.

Almost 2 years later, it’s clear the 1-series isn’t the 2002’s spiritual successor, but new reports always appear saying BMW is hard at work on a variety of 1-series to bring the magic back.

In addition to a turbocharged four-cylinder model sporting the Super Sport moniker and the five body styles on the drawing board, CAR is reporting that an entry-level model - reportedly named the 115i - might be coming and due to debut in 2012. On the other end of the spectrum is the aforementioned Super Sport variant that’s expected to show-off round headlamps in a homage to the 2002, also with a new coupe body style slated to arrive in the latter half of 2012.

The SS model will fit between the 135i and the next M3, and is likely to feature a turbo 2.0 or 2.2 liter four-pot putting out 300 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. A dual-clutch transmission will be optional and a reduced curb weight is part of the package.

While some have heard these claims before, with Audi stepping up its own weight loss program, BMW needs to compete, and everyone’s hoping the next 1-series is an indication of what’s to come.

[Source: CAR]