IF THE IDEA of combining the practicality and affordability of a family hatchback with the quality of a BMW has you reaching for your chequebook, you're not alone: since its inception in 2004, the 1 Series has been one of the brand's most popular models.
This third-generation version shares its underpinnings with the current Mini hatch, which means front-wheel drive and some engines familiar to both. There are three petrols, ranging from a 138bhp 1.5 in the 118i, to a 261bhp 2.0 (128ti) and a 302bhp 2.0 (M135i). Diesel choices have included a 113bhp 1.5 (116d), a 148bhp 2.0 (118d) or a 187bhp 2.0 (120d). The M135i and 120d have four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard, with the rest having either a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic.
As for trims, you can pick from SE, Sport or M Sport. SE gives you 16in alloy wheels, climate control and front and parking sensors. Sport models have 17in wheels and more supportive sports seats in the front, along with dual-zone climate control. M Sport brings sharper looks, plus heated front seats, leather upholstery, powerfolding door mirrors and 18in alloys (which could be upgraded to 19in). Adaptive suspension, which allows you to stiffen or soften the ride, was available on M Sport versions of the 118d and 120d, as well as the M135i.
WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
All versions, including the entry-level petrol 118i, offer strong, flexible performance that makes them easy and relaxing to drive.
Esta historia es de la edición October 2023 de What Car? UK.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición October 2023 de What Car? UK.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Lexus RZ 450e+ Takumi Bi-tone
Greater stamina and a lower price would have enhanced our opinion of this upmarket electric SUV
Audi A6 Avant 45 TFSI quattro Sport
Our new posh estate has to deal with a mega-miles commute and an older sibling. How will it get on?
Renault Clio 1.0 TCe 90 Evolution
It's our reigning Small Car of the Year, but will the latest Clio continue to impress in daily use? We're finding out
ALL POSHED UP
Looking to buy an upmarket SUV? For around £35,000, you could have a new Lexus LBX or a used BMW X1. Let's see where your money should go
JOINING UP THE TOTS
Small, cheap cars bring numerous benefits, especially if most of your driving is around town. We take three leading examples on a road trip to see which of them paints the most complete picture
GRIPPING STUFF
Tyre choice can make a huge difference to how your car behaves in changeable weather. We search for the best
Audi A6 e-tron
BMW i5 rival uses the same tech as the Q6 e-tron SUV for serious pace and range On sale Late 2024 Price from £62,000 (est)
Renault Symbioz
Slightly smaller than Renault's existing Austral, this new hybrid family SUV has its sights set firmly on the popular Nissan Qashqai On sale Now Price from £29,295
Volkswagen Golf
Family car celebrates its 50th birthday with an update, including much-improved infotainment On sale Now Price from £27,035
Hyundai Tucson
Update for Hyundai's family SUV includes a redesigned interior and a revised engine line-up On sale Now Price from £32,000