Welcome to the BMW 1 Series universe! This car, especially the 118i, showcases a perfect blend of elegance and agility. In a compact car segment bustling with rivals like the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf, the BMW 1 Series stands out. Its unique front-wheel drive and the zest of the BMW M135i make it distinctive. This series promises an unparalleled driving thrill for BMW fans or those seeking their next vehicle. Ever dreamt of owning one? Now might be the perfect time. Join us as we delve into the allure of the BMW 1 Series.
Pros and Cons of BMW 1 Series:
Pros:
- Delivers a good blend of driver appeal with decent ride comfort and fine practicality.
- Features a top-notch interior and a brilliant infotainment system.
- The interior design is commendable with ample adjustment options ensuring driving comfort.
- Offers a good forward view, on par with competitors.
- Comes with standard LED headlights ensuring good night visibility.
- The iDrive system stands out as the best interface when driving, proving less distracting and more intuitive than competitors.
- Generous storage spaces include decently sized door bins, a large glovebox, and a central cubby hole.
- Generally, BMW has a stellar reputation for reliability.
- Transition to front-wheel drive hasn’t compromised the driving experience; it’s now even more practical with ample cabin space.
- The M135i, with its 2.0-litre petrol engine, impresses with its high performance.
Cons:
- Lumbar adjustment comes at an extra cost, though this is a trend even with some competitors.
- The M135i variant can be a bit thirsty in terms of fuel consumption.
- Gesture control for the infotainment might feel more like a gimmick to some.
Quick Verdict:
The BMW 1 Series has undergone a significant transformation, making it more practical and technologically advanced than its predecessors. One of the standout features of this new iteration is its high-tech infotainment system, a testament to BMW’s commitment to keeping drivers connected and entertained. Furthermore, the revamped 1 Series offers a spacious interior, ensuring passengers enjoy their journeys in comfort. Its engine range is not just about power but efficiency as well, signaling the brand’s push towards sustainable performance.
However, every coin has two sides. The shift from the iconic rear-wheel drive might not sit well with purists who cherished the distinctive driving feel of the previous models. This move, while bringing in some advantages in terms of space utilization, might be seen as a departure from what many considered the soul of the 1 Series.
Additionally, while the 1 Series packs a plethora of features, it comes at a premium. Some alternatives in the market might be slightly more affordable, prompting potential buyers to weigh their options. Another area of improvement could be the rear visibility, which some users might find lacking.
The most popular variant, the BMW 1 Series M Sport 118i 136 Step Auto, seems to strike a balance between performance and luxury, offering a petrol engine paired with an automatic transmission. It encapsulates what the new 1 Series aims to deliver: a blend of performance, comfort, and tech.
In conclusion, the BMW 1 Series remains a strong contender in the premium hatchback segment. While it has its set of pros and cons, it’s evident that BMW has put in considerable effort to evolve the model to meet the changing demands of modern drivers.
Specs:
| Feature | Specification |
| Infotainment Display | 10.3-inch |
| Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Supported |
| Engine Options | 1.5-litre 118i three-cylinder petrol 2.0-litre 118d 265hp 128ti M135i (0-60mph in 4.8 seconds) |
| Steering | Light and precise |
| Visibility | Good forward visibility, Rear could be enhanced. |
| Interior | Spacious, comparable to 3 Series |
| Materials | Soft touch plastics, high-quality materials |
| Seats | Cloth seats standard, leather available on higher trims |
| Fuel Efficiency (118i) | 49.6mpg |
Performance and Drive:
Urban Maneuverability
The BMW 1 Series shines in urban settings. Its steering is light, making it a breeze to navigate city streets—the expansive windscreen and front side windows aid in placing the car into tight spots with ease. However, the shallower rear window and wide pillars might pose a challenge. Thankfully, standard parking sensors assist when reversing, ensuring smooth parking experiences.
Transmission Choices
BMW provides options to suit varied driving styles. The standard manual transmission is slick, but the smooth eight-speed automatic might be the better choice for those who frequently find themselves in traffic. This flexibility ensures drivers get a tailored driving experience.
High-Speed Stability
Despite being the smallest in the BMW lineup, the 1 Series doesn’t compromise on stability. Whether cruising on highways or tackling high speeds, it feels as solid and grounded as its larger counterparts. The base 1.5-litre engine remains responsive and energetic, even at motorway velocities.
Handling Dynamics
Traditional BMW fans might be sceptical about the front-wheel-drive configuration of the new 1 Series. However, after a spirited drive, it becomes evident that BMW hasn’t sacrificed the dynamic driving experience. The car boasts high grip levels, absorbs road imperfections gracefully, and remains agile in corners, reminiscent of the 3 Series.
Engine Variants
The 1 Series offers a spectrum of engine choices. The entry-level 136bhp 1.5-litre petrol is efficient, returning 49.6mpg. On the diesel side, the 120d stands out with 190bhp, pairing exclusively with an eight-speed automatic. For thrill-seekers, the 128ti, with its 265bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, promises exhilarating drives, clocking 0-62mph in just 6.1 seconds.
Interior Design and Features
Cabin Aesthetics and Comfort
The new BMW 1 Series offers a meticulously crafted interior that draws inspiration from its larger sibling, the 3 Series. Although not as striking as the Mercedes A-Class’s interior, the design resonates with elegance and meticulousness. The ergonomics are spot-on from the driver’s seat, with a copious amount of height and reach adjustments available for the steering wheel. It’s an option for those seeking added lumbar support, like in competitors like the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class. The seats, whether cloth in the SE cars or leather in the M Sport trim, ensure comfort, though it’s advisable to take an extensive test drive to ensure the cushioning aligns with personal preferences.
Tech-Centric Dashboard
At the heart of the 1 Series dashboard lies a 10.3-inch infotainment screen. This screen can be operated through touch or the rotary iDrive controller, offering flexibility and ease of use. The iDrive system, renowned for its intuitive nature, is convenient while driving, ensuring minimal distractions. With voice recognition and optional gesture control, the BMW 1 series provides a futuristic touch, though the latter might feel more of a novelty. The infotainment system ensures connectivity with features like DAB radio, Bluetooth, sat-nav, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
A Fresh Perspective
The latest 1 Series underwent a comprehensive redesign. Prioritising interior space, the design transitioned from rear to front-wheel drive, except for the high-performance variant. This transformation and transversely mounted engines amplify interior space, benefiting passengers and luggage. Design-wise, the car exudes a compact and dynamic stance, with the iconic kidney grille taking centre stage. The craftsmanship is evident in the minute panel gaps and the premium paint quality, reinforcing BMW’s commitment to excellence.
Trim Variations and Add-ons
The base SE cars come with cloth upholstery, LED headlights, and parking sensors. Upgrading to the Sport trim introduces dual-zone climate control and sports seats draped in cloth and Sensatec faux leather. The M Sport trim is a favourite, offering leather upholstery, heated sports seats, and the M Sport suspension. The BMW 1 Series also provides many M Performance accessories, allowing enthusiasts to customise their 1 Series with carbon fibre trims, spoilers, splitters, and other aerodynamic enhancements.
A Roomier Realm
The BMW 1 Series’ transformation brings forth notable enhancements in interior space. Rear-seat passengers, in particular, revel in the newfound spaciousness. Access to the rear seats is more convenient, and occupants enjoy augmented knee room, headroom, and elbowroom. This uplift in space doesn’t compromise the car’s footprint, which remains nearly identical to its predecessor. The cabin is spacious and adorned with materials like Dakota leather, adding a touch of luxury.
Boot Brilliance
The 1 Series boasts a 380-litre boot, rivalling competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and surpassing the Mercedes A-Class. Practicality is further emphasised with a 40:20:40-split rear seat configuration. When folded, the boot space escalates to 1,200 litres. An adjustable boot floor offers dual levels, allowing users to optimise space or facilitate more effortless loading. Additionally, the boot’s design is considerate, with a minimal load lip and the option of an electric tailgate.
Seating Versatility
BMW 1 series hasn’t overlooked seating flexibility. While the base SE trim offers cloth upholstery, upgrading to the Sport trim introduces dual-zone climate control and sports seats enveloped in cloth and Sensatec faux leather. The M Sport trim takes luxury up a notch with heated leather seats and the signature M Sport suspension. For those seeking lumbar support, BMW provides it as an optional feature.
Efficiency in Design
The switch to front-wheel drive and adoption of transverse engines have significantly influenced the 1 Series’ interior design. This strategic move has bolstered the car’s space without altering its dimensions drastically. The result is a compact vehicle with ample room, making it suitable for urban commutes and long drives.
MPG, Emissions, and Tax
Fuel Efficiency Variations
Across the BMW 1 Series range, fuel efficiency stands out. The BMW 118i, for instance, offers impressive mileage, particularly during motorway cruising. The sportier M135i, expectedly, consumes more, with an official mileage of up to 35.8mpg. However, the BMW 128ti is efficient capable of up to 40.9mpg combined, even with spirited driving. The BMW 120d xDrive is the thirstiest among the diesels but still returns up to 53.3mpg in tests.
| Model | Mileage (mpg) | Remarks |
| BMW 118i | Up to 40.9mpg | Optimal during motorway cruising |
| BMW M135i | Up to 35.8mpg | The sportier model consumes more |
| BMW 128ti | Up to 40.9mpg | Efficient even with spirited driving |
| BMW 120d xDrive | Up to 53.3mpg | It is thirstiest among diesels but still offers good efficiency |
Emission Standards and Bands
Performance doesn’t come at the cost of the environment. The BMW 1 Series ensures lower emissions across the board. For example, the 4.8sec 0-62mph performance variant emits between 168-178g/km of CO2. These figures align the BMW 1 Series with the latest emission standards, making it a responsible choice for environmentally-conscious buyers.
Tax Implications and Insights
The third-generation BMW 1 Series adheres to the latest VED bands. From the second payment, owners incur a flat £150 annual tax. However, knowing the premium car tax for cars with a list price exceeding £40,000 is essential. A fully loaded M135i might fall into this category, meaning an additional £325 tax annually for the first five years. This tax remains the responsibility of any subsequent owners.
Comparative Insurance Costs
Insurance costs for the BMW 1 Series are reasonable. The 116d is the most economical to insure, while, predictably, the M135i is on the higher end. These insurance brackets are comparable to competitors like the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Although insuring a BMW 1 Series might be marginally more expensive than a Vauxhall Astra, the difference isn’t stark unless considering young drivers.
| Model | Insurance Bracket | Remarks |
| BMW 116d | Economical | The most economical model to insure |
| BMW M135i | Higher End | More expensive to insure, comparable to competitors like Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class |
| BMW 1 Series vs Vauxhall Astra | Comparable | The difference isn’t significant unless you are considering young drivers |
Safety and Security
Safety Protocols and Systems
The BMW 1 Series has been meticulously crafted to ensure the highest safety standards for its passengers. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the car boasts a standard collision and pedestrian warning system across the range. This advanced system can detect imminent collisions at low speeds and autonomously apply the brakes. It even has heightened sensitivity to see cyclists and promptly alerts the driver. Moreover, the lane departure system integrated into the car gives an impulse to the steering wheel, warning the driver if any unintentional lane deviation is detected.
Optional Safety Add-Ons
While the BMW 1 Series already offers a plethora of safety features, BMW didn’t stop there. They introduced the Driving Assistant feature as an optional addition, which, although leaning towards the pricier side, proves invaluable, especially for frequent motorway travellers. This package adds a blind spot detection system, which warns the driver and can also make minute steering adjustments if the vehicle changes lanes and another vehicle is detected in the blind spot. Furthermore, this pack incorporates a rear crossing traffic warning, indispensable during parking scenarios, notifying drivers of approaching vehicles.
Safety Ratings and Achievements
Reiterating its commitment to safety, the BMW 1 Series underwent a rigorous evaluation by Euro NCAP in 2019. The outcome? An outstanding five out of five safety rating. Delving deeper into the scores, the car achieved an impressive 83% for adult occupants, 87% for children, 76% for vulnerable road users, and 72% for its safety assist systems. While most modern vehicles in this category come equipped with commendable safety features, the BMW 1 Series emerges as a pinnacle of safety, ensuring utmost protection for your family.
Reliability and Known Issues
Historical Reliability Insights
The BMW 1 Series has been a testament to BMW’s engineering prowess and commitment to reliability. From its inception to the latest BMW 1 Series 2023 release, BMW has consistently produced durable and dependable vehicles. Whether considering the BMW 118i or the more sport-centric BMW M135i, historically, the 1 Series models have proven reliable across different terrains and conditions.
Current Model Performance
The newest iterations of the BMW 1 Series are no exception to BMW’s legacy of quality and durability. The company’s emphasis on excellence is evident in every car component, from the powerful engines to the meticulously designed interiors. Feedback from various owners, especially those who’ve experienced the latest 1 Series models like the BMW M135i xDrive and the BMW 1 Series M Sport, is overwhelmingly positive, with a minimal number of issues reported.
Service and Warranty Benefits
BMW doesn’t just stop at delivering top-notch vehicles; they ensure that the ownership experience is just as exceptional. They offer a comprehensive warranty for the entire 1 Series range, covering the most significant components. This provides new car owners with added peace of mind. The integrated BMW iDrive system in the latest BMW 1 Series models is another feather in their cap, offering proactive service requirement notifications and ensuring the vehicle’s longevity.
Comparative Reliability
When pitted against competitors like the Audi A3 and the Volkswagen Golf, the BMW 1 Series confidently stands its ground. While no car range is entirely devoid of occasional recalls or minor hiccups, the BMW 1 Series has an impressive track record. Its reliability metrics make it a top choice for those seeking a dependable family car.
Pricing and Value
Price Bracket and Competition
The BMW 1 Series, particularly sought-after models like the BMW 118i and BMW M135i, commands a position in the higher echelons of the hatchback pricing bracket. While it does come with a premium tag, it squares up impressively against luxury contenders such as the Audi A3. Its driving experience and the brand’s allure might justify its price for many enthusiasts. However, it’s crucial to remember that more conventional competitors, like the Volkswagen Golf, could deliver comparable functionality at a potentially reduced price point.
Exploring the Range
The 1 Series offers a broad spectrum of options. Initiating the lineup is the SE, equipped with basics like 16-inch alloy wheels, intuitive automated features, and vital safety mechanisms. However, a slight leap to the Sport trim adds 17-inch wheels, heated seats, and an enhanced sporty appearance, promising more value for a marginal increase in cost. For those steering towards the performance end, the 128ti and M135i xDrive deliver an exhilarating power output, with their price tags echoing their high-performance capabilities.
Cost Considerations and Resale Value
The initial investment in a new BMW 1 Series might seem hefty, but it’s a car that retains its value remarkably well. Its strong resale prowess is a testament to its durability, performance, and the overarching brand’s reputation. This solid resale potential renders the BMW 1 Series a compelling option for those who are forward-thinking about long-term financial implications.
Service Plans and Additional Costs
BMW isn’t just about selling cars; they’re about the complete ownership experience. They offer diverse service plans specifically tailored for 1 Series patrons. The upfront payment scheme, which encompasses four years of services, is a prevalent choice among the clientele. These structured plans ensure the vehicle remains in its prime without unforeseen service expenditures. Also, while most engines in the 1 Series lineup are notably efficient, it’s pivotal to highlight the current absence of hybrid options, which may influence long-term fuel expenditure considerations.