Introduction
What Car? says...
The BMW 1 Series has been a staple contender among premium family hatchbacks for many years, appealing to anyone looking to mix practicality with a dose of glamour.
This latest, third-generation 1 Series has one big change that's upset a few enthusiasts, though – it's driven by its front wheels rather than being rear-wheel drive. However, for most buyers, that's actually made it a far more accomplished family car.
FAQs
Yes. In the most recent What Car? Reliability Survey petrol versions of the current BMW 1 Series finished an impressive third out of 24 family car models (up to five years old). Read more here
While the rival Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class are sold as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), there’s no equivalent version of the BMW 1 Series. This is all the more disappointing given that the BMW 330e and BMW X5 xDrive45e are among the best PHEVs in their classes. There’s no 1 Series electric car either. Read more here
The entry-level 118i petrol model is the pick of the BMW 1 Series range because it’s temptingly priced and the turbocharged 1.5-litre engine feels suitably punchy. We also recommend the M Sport trim, mainly because it comes with stiffer suspension, which improves the car’s handling without making the ride uncomfortable. Read more here
In SE form, the BMW 1 Series comes with a DAB radio, Bluetooth, automatic lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, automatic emergency braking (AEB) and a lane-departure warning system. The more expensive M Sport car has sportier looks inside and out, plus sports suspension, heated front seats and leather trim. Read more here
Very good. The 1 Series comes with BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, which is packed with features, yet easier to use than all rival set-ups. You can control it using a rotary dial and shortcut buttons as well as by prodding the screen directly, while the menus are well laid out and the graphics look sharp. Read more here
The BMW 1 Series has a 380-litre boot, which matches the capacity of the Audi A3 and beats that of the Mercedes A-Class. The rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split, whereas the A-Class has a more versatile 40/20/40 arrangement. Read more here
| RRP price range | £27,245 - £43,185 |
|---|---|
| Number of trims (see all) | 5 |
| Number of engines (see all) | 6 |
| Available fuel types (which is best for you?) | petrol, diesel |
| MPG range across all versions | 38.2 - 61.4 |
| Available doors options | 5 |
| Warranty | 3 years / No mileage cap |
| Company car tax at 20% (min/max) | £1,578 / £3,122 |
| Company car tax at 40% (min/max) | £3,156 / £6,243 |
| Available colours |
