Top 3 BMW 1 Series trims head-to-head: here’s our winner

The current-generation 1 Series is the first of its kind to feature a front-wheel drive architecture, making it more practical and indeed a true Mercedes-AMG and Audi A3 rival in just about every area, something that its predecessors lacked since each was rear-wheel drive and less practical than key rivals.

The current line-up consists of eight models, the entry-level 118i, the sportier 118i Sport Line, the 118i M Sport, the 118d, 118d Sport Line, 118d M Sport and the two performance models, the 128ti and the M135i xDrive. For our purposes today, we will be looking at three trim levels available across the 1 Series line-up locally. We have chosen the two performance models, the 128ti and M135i xDrive and the top-spec diesel in M sport guise. Since each trim level features its own distinct powertrain and features, the purpose of this piece is to show key differences between the models.

Powertrain

Our trio are all powered by 2.0-litre turbocharged engines and are paired to an AISIN 8-speed torque converter automatic. This is where the similarities end, though, with the 118d being a turbodiesel that produces 110kW and 350Nm that is sent through the front wheels, allowing it to sprint to 100km/h in 8.4 seconds while providing claimed fuel returns of 4.8 L/100km.

The 128ti is also front-wheel driven, and its 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine produces 180kW and 380Nm, allowing for a claimed fuel consumption figure of 6.8L/100km and a 0-100km/h time of 6.3 seconds. The M135i xDrive, as its name suggests, features the brand’s all-wheel drive system and a potent 225kW/450Nm from its 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. Performance is impressive, with 0-100km/h coming up in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h while fuel consumption is a reasonable 7.5 L/100km.

 

 

	BMW 118d m Sport	BMW 128ti	BMW M135i xDrive
Engine	2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, turbodiesel	2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol	2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol
Transmission	8-speed automatic	8-speed automatic	8-speed automatic
Price	R696 642	R701 478	R879 584
Power	110 kW	180 kW	225 kW
Torque	350 Nm	380 Nm	450 Nm
0-100 km/h	8.4 sec	6.8 sec	4.8 sec
Top speed	214 km/h	243 km/h	250 km/h
Fuel consumption	4.8 L / 100 km	5.5 L / 100 km	7.5 L / 100 km
Kerb weight	1 505kg	1 505kg	1 600kg
Driven wheels	Front	Front	All

Exterior 

When looking at the three models from an exterior perspective, all feature sporty exterior designs, with M-specific front and rear bumpers, with the 118d coming as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels while both the 128ti and M135i come with 18-inch items as standard. Making a distinction between the models is relatively simple, with the 128ti featuring contrasting red accents, the M135i anthracite grey trim elements and the 118d M Sport both silver and black trim elements. The performance models also get two exhaust exits, one on either side of the rear diffuser while the 118d has just one exit on the left-hand side.

Interior

In terms of the interior of the three models, again, all three are relatively similar, with leather and other soft-touch materials, with an emphasis on sporty touches. Again, the colours differentiate the products, with the 128ti featuring red accents, the M135i blue accents and the 118d M Sport predominantly black but with some blue accents.

Specification

All models feature niceties such as six airbags, traction and stability control, cruise control, a multifunction steering wheel, Drive infotainment system, keyless start, electric windows, comfort access, partial cloth/ artificial leather seats, ISOFIX child seat mounting points, automatic wipers and headlights, LED headlights (optional on the 118d) and airconditioning.

Conclusion

The three 1 Series variants used in this comparison offer similar specification and are separated more by their respective performance figures and indeed, their pricing. Looking at each in totality, it would appear that the 128ti offers the best blend of performance and frugality at a reasonable prince