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Compact driving pleasure - The new BMW 1 Series now available in South Africa

Compact driving pleasure - The new BMW 1 Series now available in South Africa

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  • New edition of the BMW 1 Series, almost two million examples of which have been sold in the last ten years; new 5-door and 3-door models with extensively modified exterior design, sophisticated premium ambience in the interior and additional equipment variants; strengthening of position as a paragon of sporting excellence and pioneer of efficiency in the compact segment; introduction of the BMW Group’s new generation of engines and additional, standard-fitted BMW EfficientDynamics technology; superior agility and dynamics are the result of powerful engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, rear-wheel drive (unique in this segment), even weight distribution and advanced chassis technology; enhanced premium character is boosted by extended standard equipment; new driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive.
  • Sporting presence enhanced by the new, flat geometry of the headlight units, newly designed BMW kidney grille and larger air intakes.
  • Headlights now come as standard with LED daytime driving lights; full-LED headlights available as an option for the first time.
  • New, two-section rear lights in familiar BMW “L” shape with LED lighting.
  • High-quality controls for the radio and climate control system with chrome trim and high-gloss black surfaces.
  • Standard equipment now also includes automatic air conditioning, a rain sensor, BMW Radio Professional and iDrive operating system with high-resolution 6.5-inch built-in monitor.
  • Precise individualisation: Sport Line, Urban Line and M Sport packages (standard with the 125i) available as alternatives to standard specification.
  • BMW M135i M Performance Automobile with six-cylinder in-line engine and output boosted by 5 kW to 240 kW, plus exclusive design and equipment features.
  • New three- and four-cylinder power units from the BMW Group’s latest generation of engines.
  • Six-speed manual gearbox and eight-speed Steptronic transmission have optimised efficiency; responses of eight-speed Steptronic transmission linked to navigation data.
  • ECO PRO mode now model-specific, including a coasting function in conjunction with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission and Proactive Driving Assistant if the navigation system is selected.
  • Extended range of BMW ConnectedDrive features: Intelligent Emergency Call and BMW TeleServices via standard-fitted SIM card. Available as an option: Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function, Park Assist now also with automatic transverse parking, 3-year free map update (1 map update per year) as long as the Navigation is activated for the first time after 1 July 2015.


Model variants:

BMW M135i: Six-cylinder in-line petrol engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology (TwinScroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, Double-VANOS).
Capacity: 2,979 cc, output: 240 kW at 5,800 – 6,000 rpm, max. torque: 450 Nm at 1,300 – 4,500 rpm.
Acceleration: 5.1 seconds (automatic: 4.9 seconds), top speed: 250 km/h.
Average fuel consumption: 8.0 litres (7.5 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions: 188 g/km (175 g/km), exhaust standard: EU6.

BMW 125i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (TwinScroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, Double-VANOS).
Capacity: 1,997 cc, output: 160 kW at 5,000 rpm, max. torque: 310 Nm at 1,350 – 4,800 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 6.4 seconds (automatic: 6.2 seconds), top speed: 245 km/h (243 km/h).
Average fuel consumption: 6.7 – 6.6 litres (6.5 – 6.3 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions: 157 – 154 g/km (151 – 148 g/km), exhaust standard: EU6.

BMW 120i:
Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (TwinScroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, Double-VANOS).
Capacity: 1,598 cc, output: 130 kW at 4,400 – 6,450 rpm, max. torque: 250 Nm at 1,500 – 4,500 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.4 seconds (automatic: 7.2 seconds), top speed: 225 km/h (222 km/h).
Average fuel consumption*: 6.0 – 5.7 litres (5.9 – 5.6 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 139 – 132 g/km (137 – 129 g/km), exhaust standard: EU6.

BMW 118i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (TwinScroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing, Double-VANOS).
Capacity: 1,598 cc, output: 100 kW at 4,400 – 6,450 rpm, max. torque: 220 Nm at 1,350 – 4,300 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 8.5 seconds (automatic: 8.7 seconds), top speed: 210 km/h (210 km/h).
Average fuel consumption*: 5.7 – 5.4 litres (5.9 – 5.6 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 133 – 125 g/km (137 – 129 g/km), exhaust standard: EU6.

BMW 120d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, common rail direct injection with solenoid valve injectors, max. injection pressure: 2,000 bar).
Capacity: 1,995 cc, output: 140 kW at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm.
Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.1 seconds (automatic: 7.0 seconds), top speed: 228 km/h (228 km/h).
Average fuel consumption*: 4.5 – 4.1 litres (4.3 – 3.9 litres)/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 118 – 108 g/km (114 – 103 g/km), exhaust standard: EU6.

*Figures according to EU test cycle, may vary depending on the tyre format specified.

The design: Unmistakably sporty.

  • Front end with greater presence thanks to larger BMW kidney grille and new headlights with dynamic contours (now also available in full-LED specification as an option).
  • Sporty, elegant rear-end design with two-piece lights in familiar BMW “L” shape and LED technology.
  • Precise interior refinements, controls for the radio and automatic air conditioning with chrome trim and high-gloss panel.


Hallmark BMW design is a signal of hallmark BMW driving pleasure – a principle reflected by the status of the BMW 1 Series as the stand-out model in the premium compact segment for a decade now. Its proportions, lines and surface design come together into a youthful and fresh, powerful exterior that showcases the car’s agility- and dynamics-centric driving properties. The current generation of the BMW 1 Series has established itself as a paragon of sporting excellence in its segment, and the new-generation model continues along a similar path, a commitment clearly expressed in its appearance. All the modifications to its exterior and interior design focus on highlighting the car’s dynamic elegance, premium character and innovative technology. In so doing, they underline the latest advances made in areas crucial to providing the driving pleasure for which BMW is renowned.

Together, a long bonnet, long wheelbase, short overhangs, a set-back passenger compartment, a wide track and muscular rear wheel arches form the classical proportions of a BMW. The BMW 1 Series combines a two-box design – a key indicator of the extra versatility offered by a compact car – with a coupe-style side window graphic, a roofline that falls away gently to the rear and a heavily raked rear window. The result is a “stretched” elegance which the 3-door BMW 1 Series encapsulates with particular aplomb. Its long doors with frameless windows and single-piece rear side windows inject additional dynamism into the car’s silhouette.

Eye-catching and precise: the new front end.

Graceful lines and larger air intakes lend a clearly defined tautness to the surfaces of the new BMW 1 Series’ front apron and infuse the car with an expressive, sporty aura. A horizontal bar in the upper section further accentuates their increased volume, as well as emphasising the breadth of
 the front end. Another contributor to the sharper visual presence of the new BMW 1 Series is the newly designed and generously surfaced BMW kidney grille. Its frame is more powerfully sculpted and uses eye-catching chrome surfaces to provide a particularly high-quality accent. The three-dimensional kidney grille bars are another indicator of the precision detailing included in the design of the front end.

The revised contours of the BMW kidney grille and headlight units bring them closer together. This creates a harmonious overall impression with a single-minded look, underlining the sporty road focus and forward-surging intent of the new BMW 1 Series to resounding effect.

Newly designed headlights, now available as an option in full-LED specification.

With their flat, dynamic geometry, the newly designed headlight units make a particularly prominent contribution to the sporty overall impression of the front end. The twin circular headlights of all the new BMW 1 Series models come as standard with LED daytime driving lights. The indicators are positioned in the outer area of their respective headlight units.

Full-LED headlights for low and main beam have been added to the options list for the new BMW 1 Series model range. They generate a particularly white light that is very close to daylight and therefore optimises safety when driving at night. Should LED headlights be specified, the indicators also use LED technology.

Another item on the options list are Adaptive LED headlights, which follow the path of corners when illuminating the road. The car’s steering angle and speed are taken into account in guiding the beam of light, which allows different modes for urban areas, country roads and motorways to be automatically selected according to the driving situation. This adaptive light adjustment also includes a function for poor weather conditions, and the Adaptive LED Headlights feature a High Beam Assistant as well.

Optional foglamps are integrated into the outer air intakes of the front apron. In conjunction with the Adaptive LED Headlights, the new BMW 1 Series comes equipped with LED foglamps which also take on the function of cornering lights.

Clear surface design and rear lights in familiar BMW “L” shape.

Flared wheel arches and horizontal lines emphasise the width of the rear, which now highlights the powerful structure of the new BMW 1 Series even more vividly. Extremely clear structuring of the surfaces around the boot lid gives the rear a light, modern look. The precisely drawn lines of the rear apron and the reflectors positioned on the far edges of the rear underline the car’s road focus and wide track.

The completely reworked rear-end styling of the new BMW 1 Series is defined most prominently by the two-piece light units integrated into the side panels and boot lid. The new rear lights display the customary BMW “L” shape and extend far into the sides of the car. This light design, which likewise accentuates the width of the rear, is also showcased in characteristic fashion at night by two sets of LED-powered lights. The rear foglamp also works using LED technology.

Customers buying the new BMW 1 Series can choose from three non-metallic and ten metallic exterior paint finishes for their car, with Platinum Silver metallic and Sparkling Brown metallic included as new additions to the range. Estoril Blue metallic is available exclusively for the BMW M135i and in conjunction with the M Sport equipment package.

High-quality materials and sophisticated premium ambience in the interior.

The interior of the new BMW 1 Series sees the brand’s hallmark driver-focused cockpit design complemented by high-quality materials, new seat upholstery and a sophisticated premium character for the centre console controls. New cloth seat covers with a particularly fine web structure and a likewise newly developed cloth/leather combination lend extra freshness, as do the white acrylic glass interior trim strips with textured surfacing designed for the Urban Line.

The BMW Radio Professional and iDrive operating system have been added to the wealth of standard equipment on board the new BMW 1 Series model range. That means the freestanding, 6.5-inch Control Display integrated centrally into the instrument panel and the centre console-mounted Controller, plus the direct menu control buttons and favourites buttons, are now all included in an interior displaying familiar BMW design. If the optional Navigation system Professional is fitted, the Controller comes with a larger, touch-sensitive surface for inputting numbers and characters. The onboard monitor takes the form of an 8.8-inch display with new, extremely slim-looking geometry.

The controls arranged below the Control Display have also benefited from detailed refinements. Both the air vents and the controls for the radio / automatic air conditioning now feature high-quality chrome surrounds. The radio and automatic air conditioning keypads, meanwhile, are set against high-gloss black panelling. If the optional two-zone automatic air conditioning is specified, the display is white in daytime mode and orange in night mode.

Equipment and BMW Lines: Greater individuality in the premium compact segment.

  • Now fitted as standard: BMW Radio Professional and iDrive operating system with 6.5-inch colour display, plus automatic air conditioning.
  • New scope for individualisation: Advantage, Sport Line, Urban Line and M Sport equipment variants.
  • BMW M Performance Automobile BMW M135i with distinctive design and equipment features.


The new edition of the BMW 1 Series promises to bring an extra dose of BMW-style driving pleasure to the premium compact segment – and the standard and optional equipment on offer for the new car is most definitely up to the task. All the new BMW 1 Series models welcome further enhancements to their standard specification. An array of high-quality options, some of which were originally developed for cars in higher segments and which underline the premium character of the BMW 1 Series, can be ordered to take comfort and functionality to a new level. Additions have also been made to the number of equipment variants customers can choose from, enabling very precise individualisation. For example, the Sport Line, Urban Line and M Sport packages, which have been added to the range of options as alternatives to standard specification, offer extremely attractive configurations of specific design and equipment features, with further upgrades introduced for many details.

The generous spread of standard equipment fitted to all new BMW 1 Series models includes not only remote control central locking, keyless engine ignition, electric window controls, electrically heated exterior mirrors and the Driving Experience Control switch, but now also automatic air conditioning, a leather steering wheel adjustable for height and reach, a rain sensor including automatic driving lights control, a front passenger airbag that can be deactivated and the BMW Radio Professional including CD player, six loudspeakers and an AUX-In socket. The iDrive operating system – with its high-resolution 6.5-inch colour display, a Controller on the centre console, direct menu control buttons and favourites buttons – is also part of standard equipment. The now standard sport displays showing current engine output and torque figures can now be superimposed on the Control Display. The instrument cluster now features as standard a real-time fuel consumption display positioned in the lower section of the circular rev counter dial. The Advantage package adds multifunction buttons for the steering wheel, a telephone hands-free facility with USB interface, foglamps, cruise control with braking function, Park Distance Control with rear sensors, a sliding armrest between the driver’s and front passenger seat, a storage package and velours floor mats to the range of standard equipment.

Modernity and dynamics, just the way you want them: the Urban Line, Sport Line and M Sport packages.

All the equipment features sharply accentuate either the progressive and modern or the ambitiously sporting character of the new BMW 1 Series. The Sport Line adds either 16- or 17-inch (depending on the model variant) light-alloy wheels in star-spoke design, door sill plates with “BMW Sport” lettering, black chrome embellishers for the exhaust system’s tailpipes, plus specially designed bars for the BMW kidney grille. The accent strips for the outer air intakes, the accent bar for the central air intake and the trim strip in the rear bumper are also in high-gloss black. The exclusive design of the interior includes sports seats with special covers in the new Corner cloth variant, knee pads on the driver’s side of the centre console, a sports leather steering wheel with red contrast stitching, high-gloss black interior trim strips with accent strips in Coral Red or Silver, the light package and displays with chrono scales in the instrument cluster. The car key for Sport Line models has a red decorative strip.

The bespoke design features for the Urban Line at the front and rear of the car now come in Oxide Silver and team up with a high-gloss black accent bar for the central air intake. Added to which, depending on engine variant, this equipment line also comes with 16- or 17-inch light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design, cloth/leather seats in the new Path variant and in Silver/Black or Silver/Pearl Grey, a sports leather steering wheel, a lighting package with switchable orange/blue ambient lighting and a Pearl Gloss Chrome decorative strip for the car key. The interior trim strips for the Urban Line can be specified in black acrylic glass or white acrylic glass with textured surfacing and both have an accent strip in matt Oxide Silver.

The M Sport package (standard with the 125i) contains striking design features and a host of equipment details designed to promote agile handling and an active driving style – and thus provides the perfect platform for full-blooded driving pleasure in the new BMW 1 Series. M Sport suspension including a 10-millimetre-lower ride height and 17-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design (optionally available in 18-inch format) is foremost in bringing additional sharpness to the car’s dynamics. A passion for racing is what the newly designed M aerodynamic package is all about, with its bigger air intakes in the front end, eye-catching side skirts and a diffuser insert for the rear apron, plus BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line trim, a specially designed BMW kidney grille and a chrome tailpipe embellisher. The interior of the M Sport model also has its own distinct identity. Appointments include door sill plates bearing the M logo, sports seats for the driver and front passenger with Hexagon cloth/Alcantara upholstery and in exclusive M design, an M leather steering wheel, a knee pad in the driver’s footwell, an M driver’s footrest, an anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner, a lighting package with switchable orange/white ambient lighting, an M gearshift lever or selector lever gaiter and a fulled leather handbrake grip. Also available are Aluminium Hexagon interior trim strips with an accent strip in Estoril Blue or high-gloss black, displays with chrono scales for the instrument cluster and a car key with blue decorative strip.

BMW M135i: the elite sports performer with distinctive design features and model-specific equipment items.

The BMW M135i occupies a stand-out position in the new BMW 1 Series model range, one which also underlines its position as the leading sports performer in the premium compact segment. It is fitted as standard with two-zone automatic air conditioning and a sliding front armrest, as well as numerous model-specific design and equipment features relating to the powertrain, chassis, aerodynamics and cockpit. Together they form an overall package assembled with typical M precision to deliver an ultra-sporty and emotionally rich driving experience. One piece in the jigsaw is a special version of the M aerodynamic package, which can be identified by features including extremely large outer air intakes in the front apron. These occupy the space normally reserved for foglamps on all other new BMW 1 Series models. The exterior mirror caps are in the typical BMW M Performance Automobile paint finish Ferric Grey. The rear apron of the BMW M135i comes with a distinctively styled diffuser in a Dark Shadow metallic paint finish and surrounds for the exhaust system’s twin tailpipes.

Sporting black chrome tailpipe embellishers and delivering a resonant soundtrack, the exhaust system of the BMW M135i hints both visually and acoustically at the power developed by the six-cylinder in-line engine under the bonnet. In addition to the model-specific M Sport suspension and 18-inch double-spoke M light-alloy wheels in Ferric Grey with mixed tyres, the variable sports steering, M Sport braking system and shorter gearshift travel for the standard six-speed manual gearbox have been adapted precisely to the powertrain’s performance profile. The aim here is to give the car agile handling characteristics which can also be harnessed extremely deftly when dynamic driving is the order of the day. The specially developed high-grip tyres (225/40 R18 format for the front wheels, 245/35 R18 at the rear) optimise the transfer of acceleration and braking forces to the road.

Among the features helping to bring a sports car feel to the interior of the BMW M135i are door sill plates with “M135i” lettering, an M leather steering wheel, sports seats and interior trim strips with an M-specific design, the M gearshift lever or selector lever gaiter, the fulled leather handbrake lever grip, the anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner, the knee pad in the driver’s footwell, the M driver’s footrest and the lighting package. “M135i” lettering in the instrument cluster display provides an additional, exclusive accent.

Flexible-use interior, premium options.

All the new BMW 1 Series models offer high levels of flexibility in terms of how the interior can be used. The 5-door BMW 1 Series comes with five seats as standard, while the sporting character of the 3-door version is accentuated by the two-seat rear bench with an oddments tray in the centre. A rear seat bench with space for three passengers can also be ordered for this model as a no-cost option. Regardless of the number of doors and seats specified, all new BMW 1 Series models are optionally available with a 40 : 20 : 40 split rear seat backrest. Folding one or more of the sections allows boot capacity to be increased in stages from 360 to 1,200 litres.

The options list for the new BMW 1 Series contains a large number of high-quality items designed to meet individual requirements in the areas of comfort, functionality and entertainment. The range includes electrically adjustable and heated seats for the driver and front passenger, two-zone automatic air conditioning, a heated steering wheel, Comfort Access, automatically dimming exterior and rear-view mirrors, an electrically operated glass roof and a trailer coupling with removable hitch ball and increased trailer load of up to 1,500 kilos. Providing an outstanding audio experience while on the road, meanwhile, are a Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) receiver and the Online Entertainment option from BMW ConnectedDrive, as well as the Harman Kardon Hi-Fi system, complete with 12 loudspeakers and a digital amplifier with 360-watt output.

Comprehensive safety equipment, including a Tyre Pressure Indicator.


The outstanding occupant protection offered by the BMW 1 Series has been confirmed by, among other things, a maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing. Precisely defined load paths, generously sized deformation zones and an extremely strong passenger cell lay the groundwork for exemplary crash performance in various types of collision. Safety features laid on as standard include front and side airbags and side curtain airbags for both rows of seats. All seats are fitted with three-point inertia-reel seat belts, while the front seats also have belt tensioners and belt force limiters, and ISOFIX child seat attachments are provided in the rear.

Available as an option are run-flat tyres which even allow customers to continue driving – and therefore reach a garage – in the event of a complete loss of pressure. A new addition to the standard equipment of the new BMW 1 Series model range is a Tyre Pressure Indicator showing each individual wheel. The driver can view information on the air pressure of each tyre – recorded by sensors on the wheels – on the built-in monitor.

BMW EfficientDynamics in the new BMW 1 Series line-up: Riding a fresh wave of power to break new ground in efficiency.

  • Premiere for three- and four-cylinder members of the BMW Group’s new engine family in the BMW 1 Series line-up.
  • New eight-speed Steptronic transmission with navigation-supported shift strategy, ECO PRO mode with coasting function and Proactive Driving Assistant.


The introduction of three- and four-cylinder units from the BMW Group’s new engine family and far-reaching expansion of the standard-fitted BMW EfficientDynamics technology secures the new BMW 1 Series top spot in the premium compact segment once again when it comes to efficiency. The additions to the engine line-up bring reductions in fuel consumption of up to 12 percent (depending on the model) and at the same time provide sharper sporting responses on power delivery. The newcomers represent the latest evidence of the BMW Group’s outstanding engine development expertise and an innovative contribution to further increasing the amount of hallmark BMW driving pleasure available to BMW 1 Series owners.

Four petrol and one diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology are available for the new BMW 1 Series and all engines meet the EU6 exhaust standard. Setting the pace in terms of sports performance is the BMW M135i M Performance Automobile, powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine now producing 240 kW – up 5 kW on its predecessor. A unique feature in the compact segment alongside the optional eight-speed Steptronic transmission – a new, efficiency-optimised version of which has been developed to team up with the latest-generation engines – is the BMW 1 Series’ characteristic rear-wheel drive.

New generation of engines sets new standards in efficiency.

The latest BMW EfficientDynamics technology is once again celebrating its premiere in BMW’s compact models. The engines fitted in the diesel model is sourced from the BMW Group’s new engine family. Their further enhanced efficiency is rooted in shared elements of their design, including the use of aluminium for the crankcase and cylinder head, a forged steel crankshaft with integrated balancer shaft drive, the configuration of the intake and exhaust components and of the ancillary systems, a map-controlled oil pump and a longitudinal positioning in the engine compartment. Other features in common are the coating of the cylinder walls, low-weight pistons, forged connecting rods, their cylinder spacing and the volume per cylinder of 500 cc – very close to the thermodynamic bull’s-eye.

In all the petrol engines, the suite of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology includes not only a turbocharger system and High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, but also VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and variable adjustment of the intake and exhaust camshaft (Double-VANOS). This package of technology gives the engines outstanding responsiveness and power development, as well as excellent efficiency and exhaust gas quality.

Petrol engines with three, four and six cylinders.

The new 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine also stands out with its emotionally rich soundtrack and impressive smoothness. In terms of vibration control, it has much in common with a six-cylinder in-line engine, primarily due to their shared absence of first- and second-order inertial forces. The three-cylinder unit also features a turbocharger integrated into the exhaust gas manifold, as well as latest-generation injection and VALVETRONIC systems.

The BMW 118i and BMW 120i are powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine developing 100 kW and 130 kW respectively. The new BMW 118i generates maximum torque of 220 Newton metres, while the new BMW 120i develops 250 Newton metres. The new BMW 118i hits 100 km/h from rest in 8.5 (automatic: 8.7) seconds, and its average fuel consumption comes in at 5.7 – 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres. CO2 emissions are 133 – 125 grams (automatic: 5.9 – 5.6 l/100 km, 137 – 129 g/km).

The new BMW 120i sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 (automatic: 7.2) seconds. It has average fuel consumption of 6.0 – 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 139 – 132 grams per kilometre (automatic: 5.9 – 5.6 l/100 km, 137 – 129 g/km; figures according to EU test cycle, may vary depending on the tyre format specified).

The four-cylinder engine in the new BMW 125i develops maximum output of 160 kW and peak torque of 310 Newton metres from its 2.0-litre displacement. The new BMW 125i reaches 100 km/h from rest in 6.4 (automatic: 6.2) seconds. Its average fuel consumption comes in at 6.7 – 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions recorded at 157 – 154  grams per kilometre (automatic: 6.5 – 6.3 l/100 km, 151 – 148  g/km; figures according to EU test cycle, may vary depending on the tyre format specified).

The new BMW M135i is in a league of its own in terms of sporting talent. The increased output of 240 kW and peak torque of 450 Newton metres generated by its straight-six engine propel the BMW M Performance Automobile from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.1 (automatic: 4.9) seconds. Average fuel consumption is 8.0 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions are 188 grams per kilometre (automatic: 7.5 l/100 km, 175 g/km; figures according to EU test cycle, may vary depending on the tyre format specified).

Enhanced driving pleasure and efficiency: manual gearbox has a gear sensor, eight-speed Steptronic transmission links up with the navigation system.
The new BMW 1 Series is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, which offers engagement speed control in conjunction with all the new-generation engines. This function uses a gear selection sensor to match the engine rpm to the transmission input shaft speed, resulting in the smoothest possible gear changes.

The variants fitted as standard with a manual gearbox can also be ordered – uniquely in the compact segment – with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission as an option. An updated version of the automatic transmission links up with the new engines. Further improved internal efficiency, longer gear ratios, optimised transmission management and a vibration damper make it a champion of both efficiency and sports performance, driving comfort and pleasing acoustics. Among the functional highlights of the eight-speed Steptronic transmission is a predictive shift strategy, which works in conjunction with the car’s navigation system – even when route guidance is not active – to ensure that gear changes are timed precisely according to the driving situation at hand. Based on navigation data, the gearbox identifies and takes into account an approaching corner, intersection, roundabout or motorway slip road. If the vehicle is approaching an intersection or a bend, for example, it changes down early to the most appropriate gear, making optimum use of the engine braking effect. The gearbox then shifts to the optimal gear to accelerate dynamically out of the corner. Furthermore, interaction with the navigation system allows unnecessary gear changes between two successive corners to be avoided.

The eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission available as an option for the BMW 118i, BMW 120d and BMW 120i stands out with its lightning-fast gear changes.

Further expanded range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology.

Another contributor to what are in some cases significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions is the further expanded range of BMW EfficientDynamics features. As well as Brake Energy Regeneration, the need-based operation of ancillary components, Electric Power Steering, the Optimum Gearshift Indicator and the Auto Start Stop function (also available in conjunction with an automatic transmission), standard equipment for the new BMW 1 Series model range also includes ECO PRO mode, which can be activated using the standard-fitted Driving Experience Control switch. On all cars specified with an automatic transmission – with the exception of the BMW 118i and the BMW 120i – ECO PRO mode now also offers a coasting function. When the accelerator is released at speeds between 50 and 160 km/h the engine is decoupled from the rest of the drivetrain. Vehicles with the Navigation system Professional also come with a Proactive Driving Assistant function, which tells the driver when to lift off the throttle ahead of corners, turn-offs, roundabouts and speed limits, for example. Intelligent teamwork also allows it to influence the responses of the coasting function when using the engine braking effect would help to increase efficiency in such situations.

The new BMW 1 Series models also impress with their improved aerodynamics. At the front of the car, airflow is optimised by features including the newly designed front apron and an updated sealing concept for the transition between the headlights and bonnet. The new BMW 1 Series models have a lower drag coefficient (Cd) than that of their predecessors.

BMW ConnectedDrive in the new BMW 1 Series model range: Intelligent connectivity equals boundless driving enjoyment.

  • Premiere for new-generation Park Assist – automatic parallel and transverse parking now available at the touch of a button.
  • Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function available for the first time in the BMW 1 Series.
  • Increased variety of functions available through apps; navigation data can be updated “over the air”.


Intelligent connectivity delivers a clear increase in daily driving pleasure – not only in luxury sedans, but also in compact-segment models. Here, the new BMW 1 Series again benefits from the development expertise of the world’s leading manufacturer of premium cars and offers customers a high-quality and richly varied selection of driver assistance systems and mobility services. The range of BMW ConnectedDrive features now includes additional options that optimise convenience, safety and the use of infotainment functions.

Standard equipment for the new BMW 1 Series includes a SIM card embedded in the car, as a mobile phone connection is required to make use of the likewise standard Intelligent Emergency Call and BMW TeleServices functions, as well as the optional internet-based services. These cover ConnectedDrive Services including the BMW Online internet portal, as well as the Concierge Services personal information service, Remote Services and Real Time Traffic information. These functions are now also available in conjunction with the Navigation system Business. In addition, the spectrum of services customers can integrate into their cars retrospectively via apps has been expanded. All functions are safe, convenient and intuitive to use thanks to the BMW iDrive operating system, now also standard.

Apps and the BMW ConnectedDrive Store bring extra variety to the range of infotainment options.
Apps take a wide variety of routes when it comes to using internet-based services to open up new avenues in information, communication and entertainment. Drivers can integrate app functions into their car via the embedded SIM card or a smartphone. A one-off registration gives customers access to the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, which they can use to adapt the available services to their individual needs – there and then or at a later stage. Extra options can be added at any time – even while on the move – via the SIM card. The selected functions are made available for use in the car just a few minutes later.

The constantly expanding selection of car and smartphone apps includes web radio functions, the use of social networks such as Twitter and other entertainment features.

Always on the right course with online navigation data updates.

As well as the online-based Real Time Traffic information, the new version of the Navigation system Professional now also available for the BMW 1 Series offers an innovative solution for updating maps via a 3-year free map update (1 map update per year) as long as the Navigation is activated for the first time after 1 July 2015. The result is another step up in the convenience and reliability of route guidance. The system updates its navigation data several times a year, whenever a new version of a map becomes available, and users do not incur licence fees or transfer costs.

The onboard monitor for the Navigation system Professional and the Navigation system Business takes the form of a high-res 8.8-inch or 6.5-inch colour display respectively, each with a classy, slim surround. The Navigation system Professional is now available with a Touch Controller to enter destinations and control numerous other functions.

New Park Assist: taking the stress out of parallel or transverse parking.


The updated version of the Park Assist is now available as an option for the new BMW 1 Series. It now features 12 rather than the previous 10 sensors and helps the driver to select and use parking spaces lying not only parallel but now also transversely to the road. The system identifies suitable parking options as the car drives past, registering as usable spaces which are more than 80 centimetres longer than the car and at least 2.50 metres wide. A space suitable for automatic parallel parking can be flanked by two vehicles or obstacles such as planters or waste bins. The new version of the Park Assist can also be used for parallel parking if there is a vehicle or another obstacle solely in front of the selected space.

The driver can hand over the task of parking to the system by pressing a button or, having selected reverse gear, by pressing the iDrive Controller. The system will then carry out the requisite steering movements to reverse the car either parallel or at a right angle into the space.

The range of features has also been extended for Park Distance Control (PDC). The PDC sensors can now be optionally specified solely for the rear or both for the rear and the front of the vehicle. A new feature is the automatic activation of PDC at the front when the car is moving forward slowly. At speeds below 4 km/h the system automatically starts as soon as the sensors integrated in the front apron detect an obstacle less than a metre away. It means the driver also receives immediate assistance by way of acoustic and visual signals when driving forwards into a parking space.

Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function.

Another new addition to the range of driver assistance systems from BMW ConnectedDrive available for the BMW 1 Series is the Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function. This radar-based – and therefore particularly effective – system builds on the likewise optional cruise control with braking function, adding an automatic distance control function which allows the driver to cruise comfortably in free-flowing traffic on motorways and main roads and ensures that a suitable following distance for the situation at hand is maintained in slow-moving traffic.

The desired distance to the vehicle in front can be selected in four stages. If the car breaches the pre-set distance, the system adapts its speed to suit the traffic conditions by intervening in the engine management and building up brake pressure. As soon as the lane ahead is free again, the car’s speed is restored to the desired value originally entered. This can be anywhere between 30 and 210 km/h. In stop-start traffic, for example, the driver is relieved of the task of having to brake regularly. If the car comes to a halt for longer than three seconds, the driver can give the command to continue by accelerating briefly or pressing the “Resume” button on the steering wheel. The still active cruise control and distance control functions then become available once again.

The selection of driver assistance systems available for the new BMW 1 Series also includes a rear-view camera, High Beam Assistant, Speed Limit Info including No Passing Info display and the Driving Assistant. The latter comprises the camera-based Lane Departure Warning and Collision Warning systems as well as the Attention Assistant feature. The Lane Departure Warning system can be used at speeds over 70 km/h and sends out an alert if the driver drifts out of lane unintentionally. At speeds upwards of 15 km/h, the Collision Warning system flags up an insufficient distance to the vehicle in front. As well as triggering visual and acoustic warnings in this type of situation, the system primes the brakes to help the driver achieve the shortest possible stopping distance if he or she has to intervene.

 
Pricing    

118i 3-door R342 923
118i 3-door auto R361 334
120i 3-door R364 642
120i 3-door auto R382 334
125i 3-door R437 488
125i 3-door auto R456 973
M135i 3-door R540 477
M135i 3-door sports-auto R559 243
118i 5-door R351 923
118i 5-door auto R370 334
120i 5-door     R374 142
120i 5-door auto 
R391 834
120d 5-door R410 500
120d 5-door auto  
R428 500
125i 5-door R446 488
125i 5-door auto R465 973
M135i 5-door 
R549 977
M135i 5-door sports-auto R568 743

 

 

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