BMW 1 Series debuts with added features and appeal

BMW 1 Series debuts with added features and appeal

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‍When the BMW 1 Series launched in 2004, it immediately became a benchmark in the subcompact executive car segment as it was the first vehicle in its respective stable to feature a rear-wheel drive layout with a longitudinal engine, amongst other things. 

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Besides being a sporty and nimble car, it faced stiff competition against the Volkswagen Golf 5 and the Audi A3 of the time. It was this very same generation that gave us the formidable and sought-after 1M, which helped to increase the appeal of the M range. 

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In a significant evolution in 2019, the third generation 1 Series ditched its rear-wheel drive setup for a front-wheel drive configuration for space efficiency, weight reduction, and cost efficiency without compromising the driving dynamics that the 1 Series has always been known for.

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The BMW 1 Series is now entering its fourth generation with a fresh new range of models that seek to elevate the subcompact executive car’s premium etiquette. 

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First things first. The new 1 Series is bigger by a margin than its predecessor, thanks to a length and height increase of 42mm to 4,361mm, and 25mm to 1,459mm, respectively. The wheelbase and width both remain unchanged. 

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When discussing the aesthetics of a vehicle, it’s important to note that opinions can vary greatly. Some of my colleagues have described the current design as rather clinical. However, it’s worth acknowledging that BMW has recently been introducing design elements that, while initially controversial, tend to become more appreciated over time.

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Take, for instance, the current M3’s front end and the pronounced front grille on the 7 Series. Both features were met with considerable criticism upon their debut. Yet, as time has passed, these design cues have gradually found acceptance among enthusiasts and critics alike. 

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The front end appears to sit significantly lower to the road than its predecessor, while the wide, forward-leaning BMW radiator grille boasts vertical and diagonal bars, further complemented by standard LED headlights with vertical elements for the daytime running light and the turn indicators. 

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When it goes on sale in the fourth quarter of the year, buyers will be able to specify adaptive LED headlights with glare-free matrix high beam, cornering light function, and blue accents as options. 

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Moving to the rear, the 1 Series features two-part rear lights that extend into the side sections, vertical reflectors, and a black diffuser-style insert. The range-topping M135 xDrive adds a sportier stance that is, if you look carefully, reminiscent of the current X2 M35i. These come in the form of an M radiator grille with horizontal bars, M exterior mirror caps, and four exhaust tailpipes.

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The 1 Series is available in two solid exterior shades and a total of seven metallic finishes, while four BMW Individual paint finishes and a wide range of BMW Individual special paint finishes are also offered. For the first time, the 1 Series is available with an optional contrasting roof paint finish.

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As standard, the regular 1 Series comes fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels and 18-inch wheels for the M135 xDrive. Bigger 19-inch light alloys and an M Sport brake system are also available as options. 

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Inside, the interior is completely leather-free as standard and gets sport seats in the Econeer version with covers and upholstery made from recycled polyester, while M sport seats are optionally available. Like most recent BMWs, the 1 Series features a redesigned gear selector and the BMW Curved Display, which consists of a 10.25-inch information display with the brand’s latest OS 9 and a 10.7-inch control display. 

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For the local market, the BMW 1 Series range will consist of the 118 and the M135 xDrive from launch, with the 120 earmarked to join the range in 2025. 

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Getting into specifics, the 118 is powered by a 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, the details of which remain unknown at this stage. However, the 120 pumps out 125 kW and 280Nm and will sprint from 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds before maxing out at 226km/h. 

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The M35 xDrive employs a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 221kW and 400Nm enough to catapult the hot hatch from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds en route to a top speed of 250km/h—0.1 seconds slower than its closest rival, the Golf R from VW. 

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The entire range transmits its power via a 7-speed Steptronic transmission as standard. 

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The truth here is that BMW may have switched to front-wheel drive, but the 1 Series hasn’t lost its touch as a tidy model to drive. If the outgoing model serves as any reference, the new 1 Series remains as competent as ever in its class.

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