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BMW 1 Series 128ti 5dr Step Auto [Live Cockpit Pro/Tech Pack] Review

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With hot-hatch performance to rival the Golf GTI, the 128ti uses a 261bhp engine to drive the front wheels, propelling this 1 Series from 0-62mph in 6.1sec. An eight-speed automatic comes as standard, while top speed is 155mph.

128ti

Hatchback

Munich-based BMW is most famous for its sports saloons, in particular the 3 Series and 5 Series. However, it actually builds almost every type of car imaginable: everything from two-seat convertibles to seven-seat MPVs.

The cheapest model in the BMW range is the 1 Series hatchback, which is a rival to the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Volkswagen Golf. Meanwhile, at the other extreme is the i8 plug-in hybrid sports car, which costs more than £100,000.

BMW was also quick to capitalise on the rise of the SUV and now has six in its range: the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 and X6.

All of this makes it one of the big three German prestige brands, along with Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

1 SERIES

The 128ti is the one to go for if you want the most fun 1 Series in the range. Identified by a bespoke bodykit with black and red exterior trim highlights, the interior comes with an M Sport steering wheel and a 'ti' logo on the centre armrest. To deal with the powerful engine, a limited-slip differential, beefier brakes and tweaked suspension also come as standard.

128ti 5dr Step Auto [Live Cockpit Pro/Tech Pack]

128ti-5dr-step-auto-live-cockpit-protech-pack

Enhanced bluetooth with wireless charging and Wi-Fi hot spot

Anti lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist

Front and rear electric windows with open and close fingertip control, anti trap facility and comfort closing

3 point seatbelts on all seats, front pyrotechnic belt tensioners, stopper and belt force limiters, rear coded belt buckles

Airbags - Front driver/passenger, front and rear curtain head protection, front side, manual deactivation of front passenger airbag

Crash sensor activating of airbags,Unlocking doors,hazard warning lights,fuel cut off,interior lighting+activation of safety battery terminal clamp

Folding side mirrors with auto dimming/folding wing mirrors with auto dimming

Automatic windscreen wipers and automatic headlight

Park assist including reversing assistant, lateral parking aid and reversing assist camera

Electric front seat adjust - drivers with memory

Driver + front passenger electric lumbar support

M Sport exterior styling aerodynamics pack - 1 Series

Additional interior lighting pack - 1 Series

BMW live cockpit professional pack- 1 Series

BMW 1 Series

In the ultra-competitive arena of the premium family car, the 1 Series is right up there, but it's not the best (that's the Audi A3). It delivers a good blend of driver appeal with decent ride comfort and fine practicality, but its main strengths are a top-notch interior and a brilliant infotainment system.

<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Plenty of practical space </li> <li>Low running costs </li> <li>A comfortable ride </li> <li>A healthy equipment list </li> <li>Quality materials and thoughtful touches inside </li> <li>Rock-solid reliability</li></ul>

Family cars arguably have the toughest brief of all: they have to be good at pretty much everything. They’re used as the daily drive, on the school run or work commute (often both), and have to be able to cope with a family’s clutter on weekends and holidays.

The Skoda Scala is a relative newcomer, but it's&nbsp;already carved out a name for itself in this segment.&nbsp;If you're looking for a moderately priced car that combines a supple ride, neat handling, a spacious interior and a capacious boot&nbsp;it's well worth a look.&nbsp;Alternatively, if you're looking for entertaining handling then the&nbsp;BMW 1 Series may well be for you. It's great to drive, rides well&nbsp;and also comes with a top-notch interior, featuring one of our very favourite infotainment systems.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Toyota Corolla&nbsp;is another great choice. This latest version of one of the world's best-selling cars of all time can be had with a choice of two different petrol-electric hybrid engines, both of which should mean&nbsp;potentially lower fuel bills. It's comfortable, well equipped and should be very reliable, too.&nbsp;

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BMW 1 Series 128ti 5dr Step Auto [Live Cockpit Pro/Tech Pack] Review

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