Used BMW 1 Series 2019-present review

Conformity can help sell cars. And this could well be why BMW ditched the rear-wheel-drive layout that made the old 2011-2019 BMW 1 Series unique in favour of a tried and trusted front-wheel-drive layout that yields more passenger space.

Did it work? Yes, it did. This latest BMW 1 Series is a family car that's as competent as ever and a few more examples sold means that used car buyers have a greater pool to pick from.

Engines: The underpinnings for this 1 Series are shared with Mini, so it's no surprise that the range of engines on offer is similar as well. There are three petrol engines, starting with the lovely 138bhp 1.5 in the 118i, then a potent 261bhp 2.0 128ti, and finally a 302bhp 2.0 in the M135i. Diesel fanciers also have three choices with the 113bhp 1.5 116d, 148bhp 2.0 118d or 187bhp 2.0 120d. The top model M135i and 120d have four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard (this auto was also an option on the 118d), with the rest being front-wheel drive with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch auto.

Trims and equipment: Continuing the pattern of three into the trim choices lets you pick from SE, Sport, or M Sport. SE models have 16in alloys, LED headlights, climate control, front and rear parking sensors and an 8.8in touchscreen infotainment system. Sport models have bigger, 17in wheels and more supportive sports seats in the front, along with dual-zone climate control. M Sport has sharper exterior and interior styling touches plus 18in alloys. These can be upgraded to 19in with the M Sport Plus pack that also adds adaptive suspension to stiffen or soften the ride accordingly.

Ride and handling: The 1 Series gives a good initial impression of sportiness with quick-reacting steering and low levels of body lean in bends, but grip levels are noticeably lower than rivals such as the Audi A3 or Mercedes A-Class display, and the brakes aren't very progressive either, making smooth stops at traffic lights a challenge. The bigger brakes in the M Sport Pro pack are far better. Road noise is more prevalent than you'll find in the 1 Series's aforementioned rivals, and this is only made worse with bigger wheels.

Interior and practicality: Thankfully, the interior is a step above what you'll find in a contemporary A3. Plusher plastics and an easy-to-operate infotainment system put it ahead of Audi, although it doesn't have the visual appeal of the A-Class. Space up front is good, though, with lots of head, leg and shoulder room. Rear passengers benefit massively compared with the older 1 Series because there's more space to stretch out and the central tunnel is smaller and affords a bigger area for your feet.

On paper, boot capacity is up on the A-Class and on a par with the A3. However, this measurement includes the void under the false floor, so the usable space above that is reduced.

If you're interested in finding a used 1 Series, or any of the other family cars mentioned here, head over to the Used Car Buying pages to find lots of cars listed for sale at a great price.

Pricing for an entry-level BMW 1 Series 118i starts at around £12,000. Spend between £14,000 and £18,000 on a good 2020 car, and £18,000 to £25,000 on a 2021 or 2022 model, and a little more on a 2023 version. If you want to get the most potent M135i, increase your budget to at least £22,000.

To keep up to date with used prices, use our free valuation tool to make sure you're getting the best deal.

Check the value of a used BMW 1 Series with What Car? Valuations

Find a used BMW 1 Series for sale here

MPG

There isn't a lot of difference between the 116d and 118d diesel models at 61.4mpg and 60.1mpg, respectively. The 120d is worse at 51.4mpg, but then it's is laden with the added weight of four-wheel drive and an auto 'box.

The 118i petrol is pretty light on the purse strings with 47.1mpg, while the 128ti isn't too shabby at 40.9mpg, given its performance. The worst is the M135i at just 35.3mpg.

Road tax (VED)

Most versions sneak under the £40,000 luxury car tax threshold and avoid the supplementary fee above the standard yearly flat-rate cost. The current flat-rate fee is £180 a year.

Insurance and servicing

Insurance groups generally waver around the 20s – this is about average for the type of car. BMW offers fixed price servicing.

Reliability

The BMW 1 Series offers a dynamic driving experience but has some notable reliability issues, according to owner feedback from our annual What Car? Reliability Survey.

Owners report frequent electrical problems, including faulty sensors and inconsistent dashboard warnings, often requiring multiple trips to dealerships to address. These visits, coupled with the high cost of parts and repairs, have affected owner satisfaction despite the professional and efficient dealership service.

Potential buyers should consider the likelihood of electrical issues and the associated maintenance expenses when considering the 1 Series.

Explore more about the used BMW 1 Series reliability on our dedicated page.

Engine

Unless you cover huge mileages, the regular 118i petrol should suit you just fine. It can be a touch thrummy at idle, but things smooth out once up to speed.

Specification

Sport is a good compromise if you want some luxuries with a softer ride, but we'd suggest plumping for the M Sport because this adds front seat heating, leather seats and power folding mirrors. It also gets you firmer suspension that improves handling while also keeping the ride pliant enough over bigger bumps.

Our favourite BMW 1 Series: 1.5 118i M Sport

The latest Audi A3 may not be as impressive as its predecessor, but it's still the best premium family car you can buy. A larger infotainment screen and a standard digital instrument cluster should keep tech fans happy.

If sportiness isn't your bag, try a Mercedes A-Class. This generation is far superior to what went before thanks to a supple ride and greater practicality. The 1.3-litre petrol is a surprise too, especially in A200 form, where it is fast enough for any given situation, yet returns excellent fuel economy and exemplary refinement at a cruise.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? Newsletter here

Find a used BMW 1 Series with What Car? >>