The 1 Series might be BMW’s smallest and most affordable car, but it maintains everything BMW stands for – being fun to drive, premium and very desirable.
BMW has recently revealed an all-new model – this time offering more spaciousness, a new front-wheel-drive layout and more technology.
Here’s the full run-down on the new car.
What engines are available?
The petrol range kicks off with what is likely to be the best-seller – the 118i. This utilises a 138bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine – the same as that found in the Mini Cooper – paired to a six-speed manual gearbox, with the option of a seven-speed DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission. This unit is now much cleaner than before – with CO2 emissions dropping from 143g/km to 114g/km.
The only other petrol engine is in the hot M135. This utilises a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 302bhp. It’s now all-wheel-drive and is BMW’s most powerful four-cylinder engine. Capable of accelerating from 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 155mph, this is a rather rapid hot hatch.
As for diesel models, the option is between the 116d, 118d and 120d xDrive. The 116d utilises a 114bhp 1.5-litre diesel engine, which is the most efficient in the range – returning up to 61.4mpg, with CO2 emissions as low as 100g/km.
Meanwhile the 118d and 120d both use a 2.0-litre unit – the former producing 148bhp and the latter 187bhp. The 120d is also paired as standard to all-wheel-drive, too, and utilises an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
What trim levels are offered?
Four trim levels are offered on the 1 Series – SE, Sport, M sport and then the standalone M135i xDrive. Equipment highlights are as follows.
SE – from £24,430
This includes 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic air-conditioning, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen.
Sport – from £25,430
This comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control and a sportier styling kit.
M Sport – from £27,230
On top of Sport, this adds 18-inch M Sport alloy wheels, a leather interior, an M Sport styling package, sports seats, heated front seats and a sportier suspension setup.
M135i xDrive – from £36,430
Aside from the sportier engine, this adds a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, a revised bodykit, 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels and access to further connected services.
What about personalisation?
BMW offers a limited number of colour options, with just six available to pick. However, the palette includes bold colours, such as Misano Blue metallic (pictured) and Melbourne Red metallic. Additional colours are also offered on the M135i too.
The options list is where there is greater personalisation choice, though. M Sport models can be specified with the ‘M Sport Plus’ pack, which adds a host of styling tweaks – including dark tinted rear windows, grey 18-inch allow wheels and an extended rear spoiler. This package costs £1,800.
You can also choose the £1,500 Tech Pack 1, which comes with park assist, wireless phone charging, a head-up display and adaptive LED headlights.