BMW 1 Series

Manufacturer
BMW

Model
1 Series

Segment/Specs
Hatchback

If you can afford it and don't have kids and a dog to lug around it's decent car. If you can't afford it our verdict is something of a moot point.

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Performance

Plenty of engines to choose from, with the turbodiesels top picks at the mid range. The 1.6- and 3.0-litre petrol engines bookend the range, with the former underpowered and the latter providing serious oomph.

Driving

New suspension provides a superb rear-wheel driving, with strong grip and sharp steering.

Feel

All engines are smooth and quiet, with the 2.0-litre diesel proving particularly so in comparison to rivals. Road and wind noise very quiet.

Price

Very expensive, but it's a BMW. Good residuals and good running costs on the diesel model may slightly negate your guilt.

Quality

Superb BMW quality engine-wise but interiors aren't as suave as you might expect.

Safety

Six airbags, anti-lock brakes and stability control all standard and 5/5 in NCAP crash tests. Visible VINs mean if your car is stolen it can be traced.

Space

Not great for passengers, and bootspace isn't fantastic, though 60/40 rear seating offsets storage problems somewhat.

Equipment

CD player, central locking and front electric windows are standard on all models with alloys and air con on the middle S trim. Automatic gearboxes on 2-litre engines are available.

Alternatives

Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, MINI Cooper

Pros

Superb engines and refinement. That badge.

Cons

Expensive to buy and run, at least at the upper end of the range. Minute bootspace.

Expensive but super Hatch

by B. Thornham (Bishop's Castle) - 20/09/2005 12:50:05

BMW with a Hatchback? How could it go wrong? Well, it didn't, of course. They took some of the lessons they learned from building the new Mini, and built one of the most capable models out there. The BMW quality shines in this car. Fun to drive, great to own, and not too bad on economy either. As far as driving experience goes, you can't do much better. Of course, this comes at a premium, but currently there aren't any competitors. I'd buy this car again (although probably with a bigger engine) if I were to buy a car today.