BMW 1 Series Has A ‘Big Car’ Feel

The entry level to the BMW range is the 1 Series hatchback, and the newest model has even more gadgetry, including new engines. It has lots of ‘big car’ equipment and you can personalise it even more. It’s still rear-wheel drive and fun to drive. There is a large range of fast but frugal efficient petrol and diesel engines.

BMW 1 series is like marmite either you love it or hate but BMW 1 series definitely stands out. The edgy flame surfacing design language has been replaced by a smoother look inspired by the latest 5 series and 6 Series. The cabin quality is top notch as all the controls are big. The dashboard is made from soft-touch plastics and plenty of leather and metal finishes. The visibility is decent and the seats are also adjustable. There is lots of equipment on offer. The newest model doesn’t let down either with the great range of engines it offers.

When you buy a BMW you can opt for a 1.6 petrol turbo giving 136bhp or 170bhp on the 118i. The best of the range is the M135i, which has super car like performance with 0-60mph time of just 4.9seconds. The diesels come in 2.0-litre 116d, 118d and 120d. There is also an EfficinetDynamics model which has a 1.6 litre diesel engine. All 1 Series models get Driver Performance Control Button so whichever car you go for you will have a comfortable ride. The body roll is minimal and it has shows good agility. The BMW 1 Series is a very safe car thanks to its five-star Euro NCAP rating. BMW is a reliable car. Lane departure warning and a system which brakes the car at very low speed to keep away from colliding with the car in front are impressive innovations.

This latest BMW 1 Series has been lengthened by 85mm, with 30mm added to the wheelbase. Although it is more spacious than before but nonetheless it is feels very confined at the back. The boot space has been increased by 30 litres to 360 litres. There are lots of storage cubbies inside the cabin too. The body is 30kg lighter and stop-start is standard along with other EfficientDynamics tweaks making the new 1 Series is very frugal. The 118i is cable to emit just 137g/km and give 48mph, which is very impressive. The most frugal diesel is the 116 EfficientDynamics, which delivers 74.3mpg along with tax-evading emissions of 99g/km.