BMW 1 Series, and 2 Series 2017 score upgraded interiors

BMW has revealed another update for its rear-wheel-drive 1 Series hatch and 2 Series coupe and convertible, with the latest revision headlined by a much-needed lift in interior quality for both models.

Inside, the centre console has a new design and is finished in high-gloss black, while the 'iDrive' multimedia system upgrades its software to version six with Apple CarPlay and an 8.8-inch colour touchscreen available optionally.

Additionally, the dashboard features 'design stitching' and revised driver-focused trim with chrome highlights throughout, as well as redesigned air vents and a blacked-out driver instrument cluster. A built-in SIM card which supports 'ConnectedDrive' services also features as standard.

2017 BMW 2 Series convertible.

Exterior styling for the 1 Series is unchanged, but the 2 Series benefits from a larger kidney grille and front air intakes, as well as standard restyled bi-LED headlights and different graphics for the LED tail-lights. Adaptive LED headlights are optional.

Three alternative paint finishes will be introduced.

Four new-look alloy wheel designs will be on offer for either model, with two 17-inch and two 18-inch styles to chose from.

Three alternative paint finishes will be introduced including 'Seaside Blue' and 'Sunset Orange', as well as the 2 Series-only 'Mediterranean Blue'.

While not yet confirmed for Australia, BMW will introduce three stylish 1 Series specials – Edition Sport Line Shadow, Edition M Sport Shadow and M140i Edition Shadow – in Europe alongside the updated hatch.

Exterior styling for the 1 Series is unchanged.

These special editions are differentiated externally by the black treatment to the kidney grille and LED headlight inserts, as well as darkened LED tail-lights.

Optional safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and parallel or perpendicular parking assistant.

Four new-look alloy wheel designs will be on offer for either model.

Powertrains carry over unchanged, meaning overseas engine choices range from the entry-level 80kW 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol to the flagship 250kW 3.0-litre turbo-petrol six.

According to BMW Australia, the existing powerplant options in the respective line-ups will be maintained when the revised models go on sale Down Under, which again rules out the 1.5-litre turbo triple from a local release.

Additionally, the dashboard features 'design stitching'.

It was only in October last year that BMW boosted power for most of the engines in both ranges, while dropping all diesel variants from the 2 Series line-up.

Powertrains carry over unchanged.

Internationally, the 1 Series is offered as either a three- or five-door hatchback, but BMW's local arm has reaffirmed it will continue to import the five-door only. Meanwhile, the 2 Series will still be offered in either two-door coupe or convertible body styles.

The 'iDrive' multimedia system upgrades its software to version six.

The upgraded 1 Series and 2 Series ranges will roll into European showrooms in July, with an Aussie launch confirmed for September this year. Pricing and specification details will be released closer to the local on-sale date.

Has BMW done enough to freshen up its 1 Series and 2 Series models? Tell us what you think in the comments below.