Sharpened BMW 1 Series driven in SA

The 1 Series is an incredibly important model for the BMW brand, offering an entry point into the premium market. BMW's hatchback has been significantly updated, with the 1 Series even touted as an all-new generation. I attended the local media launch recently and had a chance to experience the derivatives across the model range briefly.

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BMW 1 Series

Exterior Styling

While the dimensions have only changed slightly in the new 1 Series (an increase of 42mm in length to 4 361mm and 25mm in height to 1 459mm), the latest car looks quite different from its predecessor. The flat front end, sitting lower than its predecessor, reminds some of a Hyundai i30, and once I'd seen that, it could not be unseen, with the kidney grille perhaps being the only prominent BMW feature up front. 

The side profile is attractive, though, and so is the updated rear end, which looks decidedly BMW in its execution. I am not a fan of the brand's new badge structure, where the model number is capitalised and the derivative number is lowercase, with the "i" now being removed as the brand states that this is now reserved for its electric products.

The new badge structure, to my eyes at least, is less attractive than before

Interior 

Stepping inside reveals a redesigned interior. The curved central slab that houses the digital instrument cluster, infotainment system, and a new steering wheel has been taken from the X1. A new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect, powered by BMW Operating System 9, an Android-based system, is also a great addition. The brand's iDrive is one of the better infotainment systems currently available, and even in this entry-level model, it's a fast, intuitive system to use.

Model range

Only two engines are available in the 1 Series range, badged the 118 and M135, respectively. The 118 is available in base model, M Sport, and a new Pure Design guise. All produce the same 115kW and 230Nm from a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox that sends power to the front wheels. The claimed fuel consumption is 6.4 L/100km, but we achieved 7.2 L/100km during the launch, while the 0-100km/h time is 8.5 seconds. The Pure Design models are BMW's way of offering a mid-spec 1 Series, with features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, a black roof and the brand's Equipment package that includes comfort access, anti-dazzle mirrors, adaptive LED lights and a wireless charger.

The M135 has received the same aesthetic treatment, but has also been updated mechanically, with its 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine now producing 233kW and 400Nm of torque, which is sent through all four wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox instead of the previous 8-speed torque converter. Expect 0-100km/h to come up in 4.9 seconds, while fuel consumption during our drive of the vehicle came to 9.8 L/100km in admittedly spirited driving conditions.

Driving impression

The media launch took place in Johannesburg, where we drove from Fourways to Pont de Val in Parys. Most of the route consisted of freeways or open country roads, which did not allow for much dynamic testing but certainly helped the fuel economy of each model we drove. I started in the M135, and was immediately impressed with the calibration of the dual-clutch gearbox, the sharp steering and the revised suspension set-up, all of which contribute to making this car feel very dynamic, something I was reminded about the moment I swapped the M135 for the 118. The latter is a great great daily driver in spite of an overly firm ride, but there's a rather big chasm between the 118 and M135 now that there's no longer other 1 Series derivatives in the local line-up.

Those looking for true engagement and feel will not find it in the 1 Series, nor should they. These products appear very well thought-out, mind, with the M135 offering Volkswagen Golf R-like performance but with a more luxurious slant, while the 118 appears to be focussed on premium daily driving, which it gets along with admirably. There is no getting around pricing, though, and in a price sensitive market that is now quite literally flooded with options at attractive pricing, the 1 Series will be a purchase made with the heart over the head, as is the case with most premium products.

The hot hatch is disappearing, so it's nice to see a small BMW that's aimed at fun

Select Finance

The brand's Select Finance scheme was on full offer at the event, whereby a person effectively leases new model for a specific time period with mileage perameters. When the contract is done, they can opt for a new car, offer to purchase the car outright or walk away without owing any money. In world where baloon payments and depreciation can neagtively affect your life, I find these schemes to be favorable when buying a premium asset that is prone to depreciation.

Pricing*

*Pricing includes the brand's 5-year/100 000km Motorplan.