For M Sport trim gives a much sharper look than SE models, while there's a smooth six-cylinder engine and lots of standard equipment. The steering is responsive and the handling is sharp.
Against The 215bhp engine is surprisingly lifeless at low revs and the handling isn’t as sharp as some rivals’. One or two of the interior plastics aren’t up to BMW’s usual standards.
It looks the part and has a smooth six-cylinder engine, but you still expect more for the money. It's well equipped, but the low-rev performance, cabin quality and rear seat space are disappointing.
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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