BMW 1 Series 116d M Sport 5dr Step Auto LCP/Pro/Tech pk

  • Automatic
  • Diesel
  • 57.6 mpg
  • 5 door hatchback
  • 128 g/km CO2
  • 128 g/km CO2 emissions
  • 57.6 mpg Fuel efficiency
  • 10.1 secs 0 to 62 mph
  • 116 bhp Engine power

Ten Second Review

The MK3 version of BMW's 1 Series gets a new platform, a new drive layout and new engines. It's sleeker, lighter, safer, more practical and more efficient than before. And, the company reckons, it's still the most rewarding steer in the premium compact hatch sector. Big claims for an important car.

Background

Front wheel drive and BMW. Once, it was a phrase you'd never hear. But then the Munich maker introduced a front-driven platform into its 2 Series Active Tourer MPV. And now this layout's gone mainstream with the third generation version of the brand's smallest model, the 1 Series hatch. It's not so small these days, especially inside where the switch of drive layouts has freed up more room, particularly in the boot. But will the dynamic change of heart neutralise what has previously been this model line's greatest draw - uniquely rewarding handling? BMW says not - and provides a completely fresh range of engines to further sweeten the pill. On top of that there's a smarter cabin and upgraded safety. Sounds promising.

Driving Experience

Back at the launch of the very first 1 Series model in 2003, rear wheel drive was a non-negotiable part of BMW's engineering fabric. Yet this layout practically compromised both that MK1 model and its 2011 successor. And for what? The Munich maker's own research suggests that over 85% of 1 Series customers have no idea whether the drive wheels are front or rear. And whoever complained about the handling of a front-driven BMW-engineered MINI? If you opt for the brand's xDrive 4WD system of course, none of this will matter, but availability of that depends upon the engine you select, so let's take a look at the various powerplant options, all of them re-developed for this car. BMW expects the 150hp 118d diesel to be the big seller; for black pump variants, there's also a lesser 116hp 116d three cylinder 1.5-litre derivative and a more powerful 190hp 120d 2.0-litre model, the latter only offered with the xDrive system. That 4WD set-up is also a non-negotiable part of the top petrol M135i xDrive hot hatch variant (which offers 306hp), but most customers wanting to fuel from the green pump with this car will choose the 1.5-litre three cylinder 140hp unit powering the base 118i front-driven version. Three different transmissions are on offer, depending on variant. The 116d, the 118d and the 118i get an upgraded 6-speed manual gearbox and the two base three cylinder variants(116d and 118i) can also be ordered with an optional 7-speed Stepronic auto. At the top of the range, the brand's smooth 8-speed Steptronic Sport auto transmission is optional on the 118d and has to be had on the two top xDrive models. If you like the idea of potent 2.0-litre petrol power but find yourself happy with front wheel drive, BMW will offer you the M135i's engine in de-tuned 265hp form in the front-driven 128ti sports variant.

Design and Build

The rather dumpy styling that characterised earlier 1 Series models is all forgotten now; this third generation model is much sleeker, with a more wedged shaped silhouette and a pronounced 'shark nose'. At the front, the BMW kidney grille is larger and, for the first time in this model range, the kidneys merge in the middle. The car features a shorter bonnet and significantly more space than before within a footprint almost identical to that of its predecessor. At 4,319 millimetres, the MK3 1 Series is 5mm shorter, 34mm wider and 13mm higher. The 2,670mm wheelbase meanwhile, is 20 millimetres shorter but despite that, thanks to the switch of drive layouts, there's significantly more cabin space than before. Passenger access is easier, particularly in the rear where there's an extra 33mm of knee room, 13mm more elbow room and 19mm more head room. The luggage compartment capacity rises by 20-litres to 380-litres (or 1,200-litres with the rear seat bench folded down). The minimum width of the luggage compartment has also increased by 67mm. Up-front, BMW's latest 'Live Cockpit Plus' infotainment package is standard giving you an 8.8-inch centre-dash screen and a 5.7-inch instrument cluster display. This set-up includes features such as a Touch Controller, a navigation system, two USB ports for data transfer and a WiFi interface.

Market and Model

Prices open at just over £28,000 and there's only a single five-door body style. For the 118d diesel variant many will want, think from just under £30,000. The top M135i xDrive flagship is priced from just under £41,500 and gets its own specific trim package. If you can't quite stretch to that, try the sporty 128ti, with 265hp, priced at around £37,000. For most other variants, you'll choose between the brand's familiar 'SE', 'Sport' and 'M Sport' designations. As you'd hope given the premium pricing, even the base 'SE' comes with plenty - 16-inch light-alloy wheels for instance. But you'll probably want to upgrade yourself at least to a mid-range 'Sport' model, recognisable by its high-gloss black air inlets and chrome-framed front kidney grille. The 'M Sport' versions feature aerodynamic body styling as well as satin aluminium struts in the kidney grille whilst at this level in the range, the seat upholstery is in Dakota leather with contrast stitching. Across the range, infotainment technology has been boosted by the adoption of the brand's "Hey BMW' 'Intelligent Personal Assistant' which will allow you to operate many of the car's major functions by merely speaking a command. A Head-up display is now optional and extra camera safety kit includes 'Collision & Pedestrian Warning with City Braking' and 'Lane Departure warning' with steering impulse.

Cost of Ownership

The engine changes have been virtually all about improving efficiency. As a result, the volume 118d diesel can return up to 60.1mpg on the WLTP cycle and up to 122g/km of WLTP-rated CO2. For the three cylinder 116d diesel, the figures are up to 61.4mpg and 120g/km. And for the 120d xDrive, you're looking at up to 55.4mpg and up to 135g/km. As for petrol power, well the base three cylinder 118i manages up to 49.6mpg and up to 130g/km, while the top M135i xDrive hot hatch delivers up to 38.2mpg and up to 168g/km. Specify auto transmission and this car can be particularly efficient thanks to intelligent connectivity that enables the two auto gearboxes to adapt their shift strategy according to the planned route and driving situation. If the BMW 1 Series is equipped with Active Cruise Control, both transmissions will factor in the data from this system and the standard Navigation, to avoid unnecessary gear changes in a quick succession of bends. Across the range, efficiency is also aided by coasting and Auto Start Stop functions that take their cue from the data supplied by the navigation system, the front-mounted camera and the sensors for the optional driving assistance systems. The coasting function de-couples the powertrain from the transmission at cruising speeds when the car is running in either its 'Comfort' or 'ECO PRO' driving modes.

Summary

We can't help feeling a little disappointed that BMW's MK3 1 Series has abandoned its unique rear-driven selling point. But at the same time, we can't help being impressed by the way that the Munich maker has managed to retain so much of this car's eager, dynamic character, despite the fundamental engineering changes visited upon it. Sales will also be boosted by the fact that this is the first 1 Series with really sleek looks, proper rear passenger space and a decent boot. And it's far better prepared than its predecessor in terms of media connectivity and camera-driven safety provision. About to choose a Mercedes A-Class or an Audi A3? You really ought to try one of these too. You might be surprised just how much you like it.

  • Eco pro mode
  • Pull away assistant
  • DAB Digital radio
  • Harman/Kardon surround sound audio system with 464W amplifier power, 9 channels and 16 speakers
  • BMW individual high gloss shadow line with extended content
  • Body colour door handles
  • Body colour roof trims
  • Chrome exhaust twin tailpipes round 90mm in left
  • Chrome kidney grille frame with Satin Aluminium struts
  • Chrome 'M' logo side designation
  • Fading support
  • Front and rear bumper system with replaceable deformation elements
  • Front door sill finishers in black plastic with M designation in metallic look
  • High gloss shadowline window frame, Recess cover mirror frames and B/C pillar embelisher trim
  • Lightweight engineering
  • M Sport spoiler
  • Matt black air guide grilles
  • Matt black wheel arch trim
  • Model designation on electric bootlid
  • Rear side wing doors
  • Shark fin antenna
  • Visible VIN plate
  • 12V power socket in front centre console with blanking plug
  • 3 spoke sports leather steering wheel with black leather and stitching, pearl chrome decorative finish, specific M Badge
  • Anthracite headlining
  • Black boot net with lashing eyes
  • Cargo function on 2nd seat row
  • Conditioned based service
  • Driver and front passenger backrest net on rear
  • Driver side folding compartment in instrument panel
  • Folding rear clothes hook
  • Four grab handles integrated in roof lining
  • Front and rear door pockets with bottle holders
  • Front and rear side armrest integrated into door trim
  • Front armrest
  • Glove compartment
  • Luggage compartment for bag hooks on left and right, foldable luggage compartment liner and four lashing eyelets
  • Manual adjust steering wheel
  • Multi-function controls for steering wheel
  • Storage compartment in centre console
  • Storage compartment in luggage compartment
  • Stowage of the parcel shelf in luggage compartment trim
  • Two front centre console cupholders
  • Type C two USB ports in rear centre console
  • Additional interior lighting pack - 1 Series
  • BMW live cockpit professional pack- 1 Series
  • Connected pack professional - 1 Series
  • Interior lights pack - 1 Series
  • M Sport exterior styling aerodynamics pack - 1 Series
  • 2 tone horn
  • 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
  • BMW emergency call
  • Child proof locking system in rear door
  • Crash sensor activating of airbags,Unlocking doors,hazard warning lights,fuel cut off,interior lighting+activation of safety battery terminal clamp
  • Driver and front passenger seat belt security check
  • M Sport seatbelts
  • Seatbelt warning
  • Side impact protection
  • Tyre pressure monitoring system
  • Warning triangle and first aid kit
  • Central locking switch for all doors, fuel filler cap and luggage compartment
  • Deadlocking function system to all doors
  • Drive away locking system on all doors and luggage compartment with de-activated in iDrive settings
  • Incorrect fuel protection system
  • Locking wheel bolts
  • Remote control with integrated key with High-gloss Black inlay and M designation and 1 button for open/ close lock, window, open luggage compartment
  • Start/stop button illuminated in centre console with keyless engine start and auto start stop deactivation button
  • Thatcham Cat.1 alarm and immobiliser
  • Wheel slip limitation close to the actuator (ARB)
  • HC: N
  • NOx: 0.03
  • Particles: N
  • Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 128
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 140
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 125
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High: 134
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High: 111
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low: 158
  • WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium: 126
  • Camshaft: DOHC
  • Catalytic Convertor: True
  • CC: 1496
  • Compression Ratio: 16.5:1
  • Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE
  • Cylinders: 3
  • Cylinders - Bore (mm): 84
  • Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 90
  • Engine Code: B37C15U1
  • Engine Layout: FRONT TRANSVERSE
  • Fuel Delivery: COMMON RAIL
  • Gears: 7 SPEED
  • Number of Valves: 12
  • Transmission: SEMI-AUTO
  • EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: False
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 4.9
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 5.3
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 4.8
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 5.1
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 4.2
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 6
  • WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 4.8
  • WLTP - MPG - Comb: 57.6
  • WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 53.3
  • WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 58.9
  • WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 55.4
  • WLTP - MPG - High: 67.3
  • WLTP - MPG - Low: 47.1
  • WLTP - MPG - Medium: 58.9
  • AdBlue: True
  • Alternative Fuel Qualifying: False
  • Badge Engine CC: 1.5
  • Badge Power: 116
  • Based On ID: N
  • Coin Description: d
  • Coin Series: M Sprt [LCP/Tech/Pr]
  • Generation Mark: 3
  • Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 17E
  • Man Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years: 6
  • Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years: 3
  • NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 83
  • NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 87
  • NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5
  • NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 76
  • NCAP Safety Assist %: 72
  • Safety Concerns: False
  • Service Interval Frequency - Months: 24
  • Service Interval Mileage: 15000
  • Special Edition: False
  • Special Order: False
  • Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 999999
  • Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 3
  • Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months: N
  • Timing Belt Interval Mileage: N
  • Vehicle Homologation Class: M1
  • 0 to 62 mph (secs): 10.1
  • Engine Power - BHP: 116
  • Engine Power - KW: 85
  • Engine Power - PS: True
  • Engine Power - RPM: 4000
  • Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 199
  • Engine Torque - MKG: 27.5
  • Engine Torque - NM: 270
  • Engine Torque - RPM: 1750
  • Top Speed: 124
  • Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP
  • RDE Certification Level: RDE 2
  • Alloys: True
  • Space Saver: False
  • Tyre Size Front: 225/40 R18
  • Tyre Size Rear: 225/40 R18
  • Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT
  • Wheel Style: M V SPOKE STYLE 554M
  • Wheel Type: 18" ALLOY
  • Height: 1434
  • Height (including roof rails): N
  • Length: 4319
  • Wheelbase: 2670
  • Width: 1799
  • Width (including mirrors): 2081
  • Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 42
  • Gross Vehicle Weight: 1940
  • Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1200
  • Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 380
  • Max. Loading Weight: 555
  • Max. Roof Load: 75
  • Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1300
  • Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 730
  • Minimum Kerbweight: 1385
  • No. of Seats: 5
  • Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11.4

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Leased a BMW 1 Series
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