This is the all-new BMW 1-Series – and Auto Express can tell you everything you need to know about the compact executive car that’s set to be an even bigger hit than its predecessor.
While this model may mark the entry point to BMW ownership, the German firm hasn’t cut any corners. Not only is it roomier than before, it’s cheaper to run, too, thanks to a new range of engines – including a 116d that emits less than 100g/km of CO2 for road tax-free motoring.
An evolutionary approach has been applied to the smallest BMW, with a look that’s influenced by the latest 5 and 6-Series, as it aims to take on the Audi A3, VW Golf and upcoming Mercedes A-Class. Head-on, the large kidney grille, more curvaceous headlights and V-shaped bonnet contours cement its identity.
There are big changes at the rear as well. A set of softer LED tail-lamps gives a more premium feel, while the flared wheelarches make the 1-Series appear lower and wider. Step inside and the model isn’t only more stylish than ever, it’s more luxurious and spacious, too.
That’s down to the wheelbase, which is 30mm longer than the previous car’s, helping to boost rear legroom by 20mm. Boot space has also increased from 330 to 360 litres, with maximum capacity now 1,200 litres. Quality and ease of use are up to BMW’s high standards; the dashboard is trimmed in soft-touch plastics and there’s a generous amount of leather. Satin silver trim and cloth seats are fitted as standard, with leather or sports chairs offered as options.
Three normal and five metallic exterior paint colours are available. Other additions to the standard specification include a leather-covered steering wheel, chrome exhaust and keyless start.
SE models add a pop-up high-resolution 6.5-inch flatscreen monitor, with operation via iDrive. There is also Bluetooth hands-free with USB connectivity and a multifunction leather wheel complete with a speed limiter.
Following lessons learned from MINI, BMW is keen to offer higher levels of customisation on the new 1-Series. Buyers can now specify Sport or Urban models above and beyond the standard trims, starting with a blank slate and picking options from there. The BMW Sport model includes exclusive sports seats, a leather sports steering wheel plus high-gloss black interior trim with Coral Red or grey accents. On the outside are unique 17-inch alloy wheels and a Dark Chrome exhaust pipe, plus a high-gloss black kidney grille, central air intake trim, side intake surrounds and rear bumper trim.
Meanwhile, the BMW Urban model includes cloth/leather seats, a hide sports steering wheel and acrylic glass interior trim in black or white with Oxide Silver accents. Unique urban-style 17-inch alloy wheels also feature – as does a chrome kidney grille with white slat sides and trim bar for the central air intake – among a host of stylish design details. BMW bosses confirmed that an M Sport package will still be offered, and the Sport Line model is designed to be both a more subtle proposition and substantially cheaper.
Under the bonnet, buyers can choose from a range of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. Auto Start-Stop is offered across the line-up, plus the 1-Series is available with a new feature called ECO PRO. When selected, this tweaks various on-board systems to maximise efficiency.
It also adjusts throttle response to encourage more eco-minded driving, and the increase in fuel economy is spelled out to the driver on in-car displays. This info includes how much range has been gained by driving in this way. Plus, the set-up limits the use of the air-conditioning, heated mirrors and seats. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express
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