Whether on long straight stretches of road or tight bends, the BMW 1 Series always creates a stir. And an atmosphere of pure pleasure. Even when stationary its proportions leave no doubt: The BMW 1 Series is the only vehicle in its class with the characteristic BMW rear-wheel drive.
Its redesigned and enlarged front air inlets allow the engine to breathe deeply. The finishers of the double headlights are more contoured; the optional fog lights are now rectangular and even more distinctly shaped. The entire front mirrors the active and agile lines of the side, giving an impression of elegance and power thanks to the discreet refinements. The dominance of the horizontal lines also lends the rear a more dynamic appearance. The distinct flow of the rear apron continues the lateral lines of the side skirts and is in perfect harmony with the front spoiler.
The cockpit is dominated by broadly stretched lines and surfaces. The lower section of the instrument panel has been redesigned in the same colour as the interior. Stressing the horizontal arrangement of the interior, the new shape imparts a generous feeling of spaciousness. Soft radii and blended surfaces help to integrate the centre console with its controls for entertainment and air-conditioning functions harmoniously into the instrument panel. Functional detailed solutions such as the new glove compartment add the finishing touches to the overall harmonious concept.
To power your BMW 1 Series you have a choice of three four-cylinder petrol engines, or a torquey six-cylinder, or an economical diesel engine with a particle filter as standard.
When combined with the perfectly tuned 6-speed transmission you experience driving pleasure like never before. And provides you with another reason to spend more time behind the wheel. And to experience how a high level of driving comfort coupled with dynamic handling ensures that the BMW 1 Series delivers sublime driving pleasure. Founded on the optimal 50:50 axle load distribution. Added to by the optional BMW Active Steering (available on 120d and 130i Sport), which perfectly adapts steering transmission and steering power support to suit the driving speed. Meaning greater agility on bends and pinpoint directional stability at high speeds.
Engines have to move cars – but a BMW engine has to be able to move hearts as well. That means it must be free-revving, torquey and economical. With a maximum of refinement, because that’s the way to achieve maximum driving enjoyment. That’s what the M in BMW stands for. And for the effortless power development and silky-smooth running that characterises every one of our engines. That’s another thing about the inimitable experience of driving a BMW 1 Series that you’ll enjoy, every kilometre of the way.
BMW 130i. Even this six-cylinder in-line engine sets new manufacturing standards. An exceptional power-to-weight ratio is achieved through the extensive use of magnesium and aluminium. The engine offers spontaneous power delivery and high revving power, which only lets up at 7,000 rpm. From a three-litre capacity come a powerful 195kW (265 hp), accelerating the vehicle in only 6.1 seconds from 0 to 100km/h. It reaches maximum torque at 2,750 rpm, and the top speed is 250 km/h.
BMW 120i and 118i. These powerful four-cylinder engines deliver impressive dynamics. Take the BMW 120i: its 115 kW (156 hp) enables a top speed of 215 km/h and a maximum torque of 200 Nm at 3,600 rpm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.6 seconds. The free-revving 118i boasts 100 kW (136 hp) of power, accelerating to 100 km/h in 9.4 seconds. And, if you want it to, up to a top speed of 208 km/h. Both four-cylinders come with Valvetronic and Double-VANOS. This advanced valve control technology serves a dual purpose: Valvetronic enhances performance and fuel economy, using infinitely variable valve lift control, while Double-VANOS ensures an ideal torque curve over the entire rev range.
BMW 116i: Likewise fitted with four cylinders and powered by a plentiful 85 kW (116 hp), with this engine version the BMW 1 Series really is a dynamic drive. All thanks to 85 kW (116 hp), 150 Nm at 4,300 rpm and a top speed of 200 km/h. Meanwhile, the double-VANOS variable camshaft control ensures a perfect torque curve every time. Even beyond the 10.9 seconds needed to take you from 0 to 100 km/h. Whichever engine version you opt for, crisp short-throw gears and six-speed transmissions guarantee that every drop of engine power is transferred onto the road.
You can rely on the BMW 1 Series in any situation. Our engineers made sure of this, by giving it a very stiff body. With powerful chassis and suspension control systems included as standard, Brake Force Display and a plethora of other engineering innovations, the BMW 1 Series offers a whole new level of safety. For example, on difficult roads, the special DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system recognises any tendency to skid and immediately takes appropriate remedial action, intervening in engine or brake management. This increases traction, making it easier to accelerate out of a bend or drive off from rest. Even in the event of a complete loss of tyre pressure, DSC and its DTC and ABS sub-systems remain fully functional. Such features make driving a pleasure – and your safe arrival certain.
The safety electronics of the BMW 1 Series react to serious situations with amazing speed. Crash sensors respond immediately, deploying the correct system at the right time and to exactly the right degree. All 1 Series models come with belt force tensioners and the airbag system comprising six airbags (driver and front passenger airbag, head airbags for front and rear and side airbags integrated in the front-seat backrests).
In an impact situation, the BMW 1 Series bodyshell proves to be unyielding. Special reinforcements in the front and sides of the body and around the occupant cell protect the driver and passengers effectively. The bumpers can completely absorb the forces of impacts at speeds below 4 km/h, leaving the body undamaged. The highly rigid bodyshell also serves to ensure the BMW 1 Series handles with razor-sharp precision and breathtaking agility.
Awarded 5 stars in the NCAP crash test.
