New BMW 1 Series uncovered: Five things you need to know
BMW has revealed the fresh 1 Series hatchback, with the brand’s premium small car getting a sleek new look, a revised engine line-up and a host of improved technology.
It’s a significant model for BMW, and list prices reveal that it will actually be slightly more affordable than the outgoing model. UK deliveries are due to start in October.
In the meantime, here’s five key things you need to know about the revised model.
It gets a streamlined look
While its silhouette remains relatively unchanged, there’s been a major rework at the front and back ends of the 1 Series. It’s slightly longer than before, while the wheelbase is larger too.
The most notable change comes up front, where you’ll find a new “forward-leaning” radiator grille that features an innovative structure of vertical and diagonal bars. It’s a first for the brand, and within its iconic kidney-grille shape, it’s certainly a fresh look.
LED headlights are standard on all models, while the Hofmeister kink on the C-pillar means that side-on, the 1 Series is still marked out as a BMW immediately. Nine standard paint finishes are available, while four BMW Individual paints are available too.
Fresh alloy wheels and a contrasting black roof finish off the look, along with a host of black trim around the bumpers and side skirts (depending on specification).
The interior has been completely reworked
Inside, changes are more dramatic than they are externally. The cabin has been completely reworked, with a brand-new dual-screen infotainment set-up now available. A 10.25in digital driver display and 10.7in touchscreen come together behind a single panel to give a stunning look.
The dash – as driver-focused as ever – has also been comprehensively redesigned around the new infotainment system. It’s now clutter-free, with most features now accessible via the screen. Voice command has also been improved, while the lower dash features a cool back-lit grille design.
It gets more equipment than ever before
Sport, M Sport and the range-topping M135 xDrive remain available, but whichever model you pick equipment levels have improved. All models now get heated seats, electrically folding door mirrors, LED headlights and BMW’s latest Lick Cockpit Plus system as standard.
Various packs and options are offered too, including the Tech Plus Package which includes a head-up display and a park assist system. M Sport models get larger alloy wheels, a sports steering wheel and those hallmark sports seats. The latter are available with a massage function, too.
There are no diesel options
In line with other manufacturers, BMW has rationalised its drivetrain line-up for the future, and has removed diesel options from the line-up completely. Excluding the sporty M135, there’s just one option: the 120.
It uses a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid turbo, producing 170hp. This offers a 0-62mph time of 7.8 seconds, and comes with a seven speed automatic gearbox as standard.
M135 remains range-topper
At the top of the range is the M135. Utilising the same 2.0-litre turbocharged unit producing 300hp – that’s not any more power than the outgoing model. But with a sub-five second 0-62mph time, it didn’t really need it.
The M135 naturally comes with everything you’d expect from the range-topping performance model; M-specific grilles, alloy wheels, a beefier body kit, a spoiler and a diffuser are all standard fare – as well as a a cool quad-exhaust set-up at the back.
When will deliveries commence?
The 1 Series is available to pre-order now via BMW retailers. We’ll bring you the latest lease deals as soon as they become available. Deliveries are expected to commence in October, with list prices from £29,950.
In the meantime, you can check out BMW lease deals available right now by hitting the button below.
