Unstable fuel prices and increasingly crowded roads have turned many car-buyers' eyes toward small cars. BMW would love to cash in on this growing interest, but can it do so without diluting or cheapening the brand's premium image? Last year's introduction of the 1 Series proves it can, and although only the 1 Series Coupe and Convertible are sold here, (there are three and five-door versions available in Europe), those who think the 3 Series has grown too big or expensive hail the 1 Series as the new heir to the iconic BMW 2002's compact performance crown.