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BMW 1 Series Hatchback 116d EfficientDynamics 5dr Review

For The BMW 1 Series 116d EfficientDynamics is the most economical 1 Series available, and the engine isn’t as clattery as those in some of its eco-focused rivals. It still gives decent pace, too.

Against Lowering the 116d ED’s suspension for fuel-saving reasons also has a slight impact on the 1 Series’ ride. Some rivals are more practical and cheaper to buy in the first place, too.

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

The BMW 116d Efficient Dynamics is definitely the 1 Series to go for if you’re picking a company car, because it brings significant tax savings.

What Car? readers say

4.142857

Key facts

0–60mph: 10.5 secs
Top speed: 121 mph
Average mpg: 74.3
Tank range: miles

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Features

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Size

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View the whole BMW 1 Series Hatchback range

Cheaper

More expensive

Read in full

The full BMW 1 Series review

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Very competitive performance from all engines
Ride & Handling
4 out of 5 stars
A sporting character, and great comfort
Refinement
3 out of 5 stars
No better than average
Buying & Owning
4 out of 5 stars
Pricey, but strong residuals and economy
Quality & Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Generally good on both counts
Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
Little to criticise
Behind The Wheel
3 out of 5 stars
Offset driving position is main problem
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
Acceptable, but no more
Equipment
3 out of 5 stars
Base models miss out on Bluetooth

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

All of the engines we’ve driven in the BMW 1 Series so far are impressive, with a good blend of performance and efficiency.

Which one you should choose depends largely on whether you’re a private buyer or a company car driver. The sub-120g/km CO2 emissions of the 118d qualify it for low Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax rates, but the star of the show for low running costs is the 99g/km 116d Efficient Dynamics model. Meanwhile, the lower list price of the 116i makes it the sensible choice for private buyers who don’t do a silly amount of miles.

Entry-level ES trim is probably best avoided, but SE models come with Bluetooth and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system – but not sat-nav, which is a pricey option on all models. M Sport trims make the 1 Series look and feel a bit sportier. We wouldn’t bother with Sport and Urban models because they’re a bit too expensive.