Used BMW 1 Series for sale

In 2019, Euro NCAP awarded the BMW 1 Series a full five-star safety rating. The car comes with a generous amount of safety features, including stability control, dynamic traction control and brake control. Optional extras help to make driving even safer, whether it's adaptive cruise control or the ability to self-park.

Petrol and diesel engines are available across the generations. Earlier models have three-, four- and even six-cylinder options, including the swift M140i. From 2019, the line-up switched to mainly three- and four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, ranging from the economical 116d to the powerful M135i.

BMW's iDrive infotainment system takes centre stage. Earlier models often feature a rotary dial and buttons to control this, with newer ones using a touchscreen system instead. You'll also find options like front and rear parking sensors, sat nav and premium sound systems in some cars.

Fuel economy varies by engine and generation, but is generally strong. Diesels, especially the 116d and 118d, can achieve over 60mpg in real-world use. Petrols are efficient, too, with the newer 118i returning around 47mpg. High-performance models like the M135i and M140i use more fuel but still return decent figures for their power.

Check for a full service history, especially on high-mileage examples. Listen for rattles from the timing chain on diesels and ensure all electronics work as they should. Inspect for uneven tyre wear, too. For extra peace of mind, consider booking The AA Vehicle Inspection service before you buy.

The BMW 1 Series has a generally good reliability record, although several recalls affected earlier cars. Recent models have some reports of electrical faults but are generally sound cars if properly maintained.