For Thanks to a bold bodykit and tweaked suspension, this version of the 1 Series Convertible is good to drive and look at. The engine is frugal and standard kit is lavish.
Against Performance is acceptable, but the engine isn't as flexible or refined as BMW's best. M Sport suspension makes the ride rather firm (unless you specify the regular suspension) and the rear seats are cramped.
This version of the 1 Series Convertible doesn't live up to its high price tag in terms of pace or refinement, but it looks the part, has low running costs and comes with bags of standard kit.
The 1 Series has a range of engines to suit every budget and taste. For us, the 120d supplies the best balance between pace and running costs and it's refined too. The smaller petrol engines are rather short on grunt, while the higher powered petrol and diesel models push the price too high.
Entry-level ES trim supplies all the basics, but stepping up to SE adds the kind of luxuries that many premium badge buyers will expect. M Sport adds a fetching bodykit, but it also has firmer suspension settings that make the ride less forgiving.
Running costs for the diesel models are low, thanks partly to BMW’s clever Efficient Dynamics measures, which helps towards stunning fuel economy and CO2 emissions.
Petrol versions are cleaner and more frugal than many rivals, but by any standards the 135i seems unnecessarily pricey. BMW offers three- or five-year fixed price servicing packages that can be sold on to future owners.
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