For This is the cheapest diesel engine you can buy in the 1 Series, and its running costs are rock-bottom. For little more than the basic version, ES models come with all the kit you’d expect.

Against Performance is more laboured than in the 118d, and running costs aren't much cheaper. It may be cheap for a diesel BMW, but it's hardly cheap for its size - or next to the 116i.

BMW 1 Series Hatchback

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

A good bet if you want a diesel-powered BMW on your driveway for as little money as possible. If you like your driving, though, we'd recommend the extra grunt of the 118d.

Reader review rating

3.748387
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Key facts

0–60mph
10.2 secs
Top speed
124 mph
Average mpg
62.8
Tank range
703 miles
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Features

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Size

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Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

BMW's entry-level model – so long as you don't include the Mini – is in a bit of a quandary.

Yes, it provides a reasonably affordable starting point for BMW ownership, but if you compare it with other premium-badge small hatchbacks such as the VW Golf it looks anything but cheap.

Entry-level models are also rather short on kit, rear seat space and access is pretty poor, while some of the interior trim looks a bit basic. On the plus side, though, it's great to drive and there are some incredibly efficient engines to choose from.

For us, the smaller-engined petrol and diesel versions make most sense. Fuel economy and CO2 emissions are among the best in class, yet the car's not short on pace. There are high-performance petrol and diesel models with over 200bhp, but these are unnecessarily expensive.

BMW offers the choice of two five-year fixed price servicing packages that may make sense for private buyers.

Reader test team says:

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