Overall rating
November 2011
Likes:
- Mature evolution of once radical styling
- Balanced performance across the range
- Rear occupant space now improved
- Economy and emissions figures to rival much larger cars
Gripes:
- Rear view could be better
- Large wheels and sports suspension combination can struggle on urban roads
- Loses its sparkle when in eco driving mode
- Exterior design will still split opinion
A controversial car when it was first launched, its looks didn't appeal to everyone. Crucially, though, the 1 Series was BMW's first foray in recent years into the compact car market. At this semi-premium level BMW was keen to complete against Audi and Mercedes. This second generation car aims to attract a broader customer base with its toned down looks and greater focus on economy and emissions performance.
This second generation 1 Series has grown slightly over its predecessor but BMW's use of lightweight construction materials has ensured that it's lost, not gained, weight. This helps to further the car's eco-themed cause, as does its enhanced range of petrol and diesel engines.
In recent years BMW has become well known for its frugal and clean engines -petrol and diesel. 1 Series buyers can choose from an expanding range of units, and their low CO2 performance should make them especially attractive to company car drivers. Furthering the car's green credentials is a switchable driving mode offering an eco mode to conserve energy along with regular modes and an engine stop-start function.
As a five-door hatch this second-gen 1 Series offers buyers a credible alternative to a family hatch if you want o move up the premium ladder. You'll pay more for the experience but for others, notably downsizers, the car's cabin ambience and overall look and feel is similar to a larger and more expensive BMW. As such, the move shouldn't be viewed as a compromise.
The car's slight increase in size solves one of the age old 1 Series issues - a lack of space. This time around the car is more accommodating, and there's now a genuine prospect of rear seat occupants feeling comfortable on longer journeys. Boot space is also reasonable, although it's good to see that the car still boasts a relatively compact footprint - it's important that it remains city friendly for the many urban motorists the previous model was popular with.
This second generation 1 Series has grown slightly over its predecessor but BMW's use of lightweight construction materials has ensured that it's lost, not gained, weight. This helps to further the car's eco-themed cause, as does its enhanced range of petrol and diesel engines.
In recent years BMW has become well known for its frugal and clean engines -petrol and diesel. 1 Series buyers can choose from an expanding range of units, and their low CO2 performance should make them especially attractive to company car drivers. Furthering the car's green credentials is a switchable driving mode offering an eco mode to conserve energy along with regular modes and an engine stop-start function.
As a five-door hatch this second-gen 1 Series offers buyers a credible alternative to a family hatch if you want o move up the premium ladder. You'll pay more for the experience but for others, notably downsizers, the car's cabin ambience and overall look and feel is similar to a larger and more expensive BMW. As such, the move shouldn't be viewed as a compromise.
The car's slight increase in size solves one of the age old 1 Series issues - a lack of space. This time around the car is more accommodating, and there's now a genuine prospect of rear seat occupants feeling comfortable on longer journeys. Boot space is also reasonable, although it's good to see that the car still boasts a relatively compact footprint - it's important that it remains city friendly for the many urban motorists the previous model was popular with.