BMW 1 Series is the least expensive model in the company's portfolio, but still, it hasn't lived upto the expectations. Even after having an intuitive list of features under its belly, it turned out to be a slow-selling product for the manufacturer. Now, in a move to spur its sales, the car maker has introduced its facelift version in the country. Available only in one 118d Sport Line trim, this vehicle comes equipped with a 2.0-litre diesel engine. Earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show, this facelift version was displayed to the enthusiasts and now, it has silently made its entry into the Indian shores. As compared to its predecessor, it has slightly grown taller and longer making room for more space inside the cabin. As for the changes outside, it gets a new set of headlights and a pronounced radiator grille enhancing its overall sporty silhouette. Its side facet remains identical to its previous model, but the rear gets 'L' shaped taillights. Additionally, the rear bumper now features dual exhaust pipes. Coming to the insides, the design remains the same, but the use of updated upholstery and metallic accents brings a refreshing new look to the cabin.
The manufacturer is offering it a dual-zone automatic climate control as a standard feature. This vehicle also gets an updated iDrive infotainment system with a 6.5-inch high resolution display as standard. Apart from this, all the other features of this hatchback have been retained. This version of the 1 Series gets Sport Line styling package as standard, which redefines its class and elegance. The elements included in this pack includes high gloss black kidney grille with 8-slats, entry sills with BMW designation, tailpipes in black chrome and sport leather wrapped steering wheel. This is the hatchback packed with state-of-the-art features like an intelligent energy management system. This is a function that collaborates with automatic start/stop function, steering wheel and brake energy regeneration to ensure maximum performance and sustainable mobility. Also present in this car is the driver assistance package that comprises of camera-based functions like approach control, departure warning and person warning. This intelligent technology operates in step and applies brakes in the event of an emergency. With such hi-tech features and improved cosmetics, this series will give a tough fight against the likes of Mercedes Benz A Class and Volvo V40.
Exteriors
Coming to the exterior design, this latest version flaunts its refreshing looks with a new set of cosmetics. On the front facade, we can see the redesigned headlight cluster with all-LED lighting. In the center, the kidney bean shaped grille also received an updated and is garnished in high gloss black. The beauty of its front facade is elevated by the company's logo on top of the hood. Below this grille, the body colored bumper gets a new design with two air ducts and a bigger air dam. Round shaped fog lamps can be seen over the air ducts with sleek chrome strips. Additionally, the lower section of the bumper is fitted with a high-gloss black protection guard rendering a sporty appeal to the frontage. Side profile remains largely similar to the outgoing model, but there is an update with regards to its wheels. Its fenders are now fitted with 'Star-Spoke' styled alloy wheels embodying company's logo in the center. Door handles remain in body color, but the external rear view mirrors have been garnished in glossy black. They are further integrated with turn indicators along with mirror heating and memory function. Complimenting these mirrors are the window sills and B pillars, which are also done up in black. The rear section also gets some new cosmetics in the form of 'L' shaped tail lights. The tailgate and the windscreen didn't get any update, but the bumper gets a new look with dual exhaust pipes in black chrome. Its increased length and height are another factor that makes this hatchback look superior than others in its class.
Exterior Measurements:
As specified above, this hatchback has grown bigger in its size. It now has an overall length measuring 4329mm and a height standing at 1440mm. Its total width including the outside mirrors measures at 1984mm. Now, it also has a longer wheelbase of 2690mm, which indicates an improvement in its cabin space.
![BMW 1 Series Interior]( "BMW 1 Series Interior")
Interiors
Ed's Take: The 1 Series has good quality interiors however it is a bit too dull and boring styling. Other competitors are much more stylish and contemporary.
Although the cabin design remains the same, the updated upholstery and metallic accents render a rejuvenating appeal to the interiors. The space inside the cabin has also gone up with better head and leg room. This eventually offers better comfort and convenience than its predecessors. There are lots of silver accents inside the cabin that helped the company obtain rich finishing inside. We can see that the central console area, door trims, and steering wheel gets chrome treatment. Additionally, there are high-gloss black design on center fascia, which adds to the elegance. There is a three spoke steering wheel, which is fully covered with premium leather upholstery and mounted with volume control and call function buttons. The instrument cluster now gets a speedometer and rev counter with red chrono scales adding an aura of sophistication to the insides. Most important fact about the cabin is its luxurious seating arrangement with sports seats. These are wide, comfortable, well cushioned and have been covered with an updated upholstery. As we can see that there are a number of storage space have also been included in the cabin, especially on dashboard, floor console and behind front seats. Along with these, there are many other utilities provided inside like cup holders, accessory power socket, interior mirror, sun visors and much more.
Interior Comfort:
The manufacturer has made some improvements to its convenience aspects ensuring luxury without compromise. The dashboard in its cockpit houses a single zone automatic climate control unit as standard. It also includes AC vents for rear cabin ensuring chilled atmosphere throughout the cabin. Its front armrest has a sliding function along with a facility to store handy things. The dashboard also has a high resolution instrument display with extended contents to provide precise information about the car and its functions. Accompanied with this is a multi-functional sports steering wheel wrapped with leather. It is integrated with a servotronic assistance along with adjustment facilities. The list of other such features include storage compartment package, start/stop button, smokers package and sports seats for driver along with front passenger. Both the front seats also have an electrical adjustment facility including memory settings for driver. Additionally, electrical adjustment function is also provided for outside mirrors, which also have mirror heating and memory function as well. Also, the presence of automatic driving lights and rain sensors boasts the convenience for the driver.
Interior Measurements:
As a result of improvement in its overall height and length, the cabin space has got better. As for the cockpit section, there is a headroom of 1018mm and a shoulder space of 1400mm. While the head and shoulder space in the rear cabin measures at 972mm and 1417mm respectively. The boot space is also huge, but individuals can increase its overall space by folding the rear bench seat in 60:40 split ratio.
![BMW 1 Series Gear]( "BMW 1 Series Gear")
Acceleration & Pick-Up
Ed's Take: The acceleration produced by the 1 Series is sufficient to drive and overtake in city or the highway. The eight speed transmission means higher top speed.
This is one department where it still falls behind as compared to others. Being mated to an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, it can zoom towards a maximum speed of 212 Kmph. In the mean time, this hatch takes only about 8.1 seconds to clock 100 Kmph mark from a standstill.
Engine and Performance
Ed's Take: BMW has always had Efficient Dynamics, and the 1 Series isn’t any different. The BMW 1 Series diesel is definitely the pick of the mill.
Currently, there is only one variant that this 1 Series hatchback comes in. It is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine, which comprises of 4-cylinders. Integrated with this motor is a twin-power turbocharger that spurs up its overall output. Besides, the common rail fuel injection technology is another reason why it is so efficient. Having a displacement capacity of 1995cc, this mill can churn out a maximum power of 148bhp at 4000rpm that results in a maximum torque output of 320Nm in the range of 1500 to 3000rpm. The torque output is transmitted to the rear wheels with the help of an 8-speed steptronic automatic gearbox. This enables 50:50 load distribution and contributes for better comfort to the occupants.
Mileage
Ed's Take: The fuel efficiency of the diesel 1 Series is good, it increases with the new eight-speed transmission and other features like ECO PRO and regenerative braking.
As against the previous model, this 2015 version is now available only in one variant with av diesel engine option. It is a 4-cylindered mill with a total displacement capacity of 1995cc. Being a bigger and powerful engine, one would expect it to deliver a low mileage, but surprisingly, it produces 23.26 Kmpl.
Power of BMW 1 Series
Ed's Take: The power produced by the 1 Series diesel is more than the petrol. The power might sound less, but for a hatchback and a eight speed transmission its more than sufficient.
This 2.0-litre oil-burner comprises of a twin-power turbocharger for enhanced power generation and optimum performance. This allows it to unleash a maximum power of 148bhp that results in a hammering torque of 320Nm.
Braking & Handling
Ed's Take: BMW has always had strong driving dynamics characteristics and the 1 Series is no different. The steering feel is also amazing.
This is one department, where BMW has never compromised with any of its models. Like other company's products, this 1 Series hatchback too comes with disc brakes fitted to all its four wheels. They are assisted by anti lock braking and cornering brake control. Additionally, brake assist function further augments the mechanism, irrespective of the conditions. A few other functions like dynamic stability control including traction control programs have also integrated for improving the stability. This hatchback also has an advanced servotronic steering assistance that uses the power generated with the help of brake energy regeneration technology. However, the response it offers is precise, which is important for handling any car. On the other hand, its suspension system is something that can take it all the jerks caused on roads enabling optimum comforts to the occupants inside.
Safety & Security
Ed's Take: The 1 Series has multiple airbags, ESP and ABS to protect you from any crashes that happen.
Coming to the crucial safety section, this model series has a total of six airbags for front passengers that helps to reduce the risk of injury in case of an accident. The manufacturer has also loaded the safety section with features like anti lock braking system with brake assist, cornering brake control, ISOFIX child seat mounting, runflat tyres with reinforced side walls and side impact protection beams. Also there are three-point seatbelts for all seats including pyrotechnic belt tensioner along with force limiter at front. Additionally, there is an immobilizer with crash sensors that takes the vehicles security to a new height.
Wheels
As a standard fitment, this 118d Sport Line version gets the 17 inch Star-Spoke alloy wheels. They are wrapped with durable, high-quality tubeless radial tyres of size 225/45 R17.
Pros
1. Redesigned cosmetics adds grace to its exteriors.
2. Improved equipments is its plus point.
3. Fuel economy is far better than others.
4. Interior space got better for more comfort.
5. Safety standards are at par with others.
Cons
1. Low ground clearance is a minus point.
2. There is no rear view camera.
3. More updates can be given to its side profile.
4. iDrive with touch controller could be given as standard.
5. Lack of navigation is a disadvantage.
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