When BMW launched the somewhat revolutionary 1 Series to the local market in 2004, everyone suddenly had “rear-wheel drive” on their lips. This was the first and so far only rear-wheel drive car in its class and proved to be extremely popular. The 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models followed in 2008 and, although they shared nomenclature and a friendly face, they should be seen as stand-alone models, not least because the Coupe and Convertibles were given their mid-life facelift only a few months ago and the maniac 1M Coupe was introduced as a final hurrah for the shape we’ve grown accustomed to over the past seven years.
The hatchback models were getting old (over one million 1 Series have been sold worldwide as a result of its seven-year lifespan) and alas, BMW has just launched the all-new 1 Series in South Africa after a flurry of attention at the recent Joburg Motor Show (and some controversy over the new car’s design in the photographs that lead up to its unveiling). The new car features an all-new interpretation of BMW’s latest design language, with elongated hexagonal headlights, fronting a smoothed-off nose and narrow air inlets. An interesting bar design features on the trailing edge in the middle of the bumper too, which enhances the sporty feel and, in some cases, is contrastingly colour-coded to add some pizzazz.
BMW has also launched two new styling lines with the new 1 Series – Urban and Sport – which provide personalisation and exclusivity options to further enhance the car’s youthful appeal. The classic 1 Series side profile remains though, with its long bonnet, two-boxed design and the powerful Hofmeister kink at the rear. The high waistline leads into the tail lights, which are the biggest source of controversy design-wise. There is definitely a resemblance though and the new 1 Series is easily identified, with a wide stance and low roofline. The interior has been given a great dose of attention and with strong ties to the new 5- and 6 Series’ interiors, looks classy and upmarket. Overall the new 1 Series hatch is bigger in every dimension (besides height) than its predecessor.
On the engine side of the table, all new 1 Series engines are longitudinally-mounted 4-cylinder variants and all feature TwinPower turbo charging. In an effort to increase environmental efficiency, the new engines are said to produce 10- to 20kW more power but use 10% less fuel. BMW EfficientDynamics are included too, further emphasising the new range’s green outlook on life. Green features include stop/start technology and an ECO PRO mode, which is a standard feature and activated by a driving mode switch. Transmissions across the range are a 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional 8-speed automatic.
Both the new 116i and 118i models are powered by BMW’s new 1.6-litre turbocharged engine and they include High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC (variable valve timing) and Double-VANOS (variable camshaft control). The 116i puts out 100 kW and 220 Nm, allowing an 8.5 second 0-100km/h sprint time and a 210km/h top speed. Fuel consumption is claimed at 5.7-litres/100km and carbon emissions at 132g/km. Thanks to more boost from the twin-scroll turbocharger, the 118i produces more power and torque (125 kW/250 Nm) and thus improves performance while still offering exceptional fuel efficiency. The 0-100km/h sprint is claimed at 7.4 seconds, while top speed increases to 225km/h. Fuel consumption is claimed at 5.9-litres/100km and carbon emissions at 137g/km.
Diesel power was always an attraction with the previous 1 Series however and the new model range is not set to disappoint either, thanks to the new 120d (which will be available towards the end of 2011). Benefitting also from TwinPower technology, the new diesel model produces 135 kW and 380 Nm while using just 4.6-litres/100km and emitting 122g/km of carbon, as BMW claims. Performance is also good as a result, with the 0-100km/h sprint claimed to take 7.2 seconds and 228km/h being the maximum speed achievable. For those looking for even more impressive economy however, the forthcoming 116d EfficientDynamics Edition offer stupendous credentials – 3.8-litres/100km and just 99g/km. Further efficiency improvements are available thanks to Brake Energy Regeneration, an Optimum Shift Indicator, low rolling resistance tyres and advanced air conditioning.
The 1 Series and its rear-wheel drive setup have always been synonymous with great handling and, thanks to 50:50 weight distribution and multi-link suspension, the new 1 promises the same driving fun. Electromechanical power steering is also on offer, along with optional Variable Sport Steering, which reduces the lock-to-lock turns of the wheel and adds superior steering ability. Light alloy wheels (16-, 17- or 18-inches) and Adaptive Suspension are also available to make the drive that much sportier. Safety systems, in true BMW fashion, are many and include ABS (anti-lock braking system), DTC (dynamic traction control), DSC (dynamic stability control), CBC (cornering brake control), DBC (dynamic braking control), brake fade compensation, hill start assistance, brake drying and even a locking rear differential. Six airbags, pretensioned seat belts and ISOFIX chid seat mounting points are also included as standard.
Luxury features also abound and include, amongst many others: BMW Connected Drive (which includes Adaptive Headlights, automatic windscreen wipers, lights and mirrors, parking sensors, a rear-view camera, lane departure warning and even speed limit information), keyless operation, electric windows all round, height adjustment for both front seats and a start/stop button.
The new 116i and 118i are available immediately and retail for R268 500 and R287 500 respectively in standard form, while the forthcoming 120d will retail for R325 000 (excluding carbon emissions tax). The prices include VAT, BMW On Call roadside assistance and a 5-year/100 000km full maintenance plan.
- Brent Ellis
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