What does it cost?
For The only rear-drive hatch in the class scores with a strong combination of performance, economy and emissions. The BMW 1 Series handles well and rides comfortably, too.
Against The steering is too quick and too light, which can make the 1 Series feel nervous at speed. The pedals are offset and entry-level models don’t get Bluetooth.
What Car? says
The BMW 1 Series is one of the best small family cars you can buy because it’s hugely desirable, good to drive and surprisingly cheap to run.
What Car? readers say
4.142857
There are 67 BMW 1 Series versions available
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.
Reader test team says:
BMW 1 Series Hatchback 116i SE 5dr
After 20 very happy months with a SEAT Leon FR TSi 211 we decided due to our low millage to get something a little cheaper on RFL and fuel. It ended…
5
out of 5 stars
BMW 1 Series Hatchback 116i ES 5dr
Pros. The car is quick. Good on fuel and the seats are comfortable. The car and engine feel solid and during my 13k miles of ownership never let me…
2
out of 5 stars
BMW 1 Series Hatchback 118d SE 5dr
Traded in an old BMW 118i 2008 SE model (33mpg) and this newer model beats it hands down. Handling - better road grip, ride is gentler, husband used…
4
out of 5 stars
BMW 1 Series Hatchback 114i Sport 5dr
I've been running the car for a couple of months now, bought new. The car is styled nicely in the 'Sport' trim, particularly with its grey and…
4
out of 5 stars
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Our pick of the range
BMW 1 Series Hatchback 116d EfficientDynamics 5dr
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.
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