BMW 1 Series review (2011 - 2019)

Pros

  • Fantastic rear-wheel-drive handling balance

  • Classy and well built cabin

  • The ED diesel is very efficient

Cons

  • Not very roomy in the back

  • Timing chain wear can lead to a big bill

  • Three-door models are less practical and harder to sell

4/5Overall score
Practicality
Driving
Tech and equipment
Running costs
2011-2019 BMW 1 Series Generational Review summaryImage

The CarGurus verdict

Key to buying a good BMW 1 Series is finding one that’s been serviced regularly and by professional garages. Do that, and you should be able to avoid the timing chain issues that are a concerning factor with this car.

However, if you can do so, you’ll get a family car that really feels upmarket, and throws in a more responsive and more enjoyable driving experience than most hatchbacks can offer.

True, the payoff is that a 1 Series isn’t quite as spacious as some of its more mainstream rivals. But it’s still practical enough for many buyers’ needs, and given its aspirational image, efficient engines and entertaining drive, that’s a downside you might be more than happy to put up with.

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What is the BMW 1 Series?

The BMW 1 Series has been enormously popular in the UK, and it doesn’t take a genius to work out why. It offers the engaging driving experience for which BMW has become renowned, but it’s practical enough for a young family, and compact enough to be wieldy around town.

And that’s without mentioning the prestige that comes with the badge on its nose. Of course, the 1 Series isn’t alone in that regard – Mercedes-Benz and Audi offer similarly covetable hatchback rivals, and the Audi A3 in particular is a terrific all-rounder.

In 2020, the rear-wheel drive mk2 was replaced by the more conventional mk3 BMW 1 Series, which features either front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

  • The 1 Series received a facelift in 2015, which gained it a sleeker nose and larger rear lights. Under the skin, the new car also got a selection of new diesel and petrol engines, all bringing greater efficiency and punchier performance. The automatic gearbox was also tweaked.
  • At the top of the range when the second-generation 1 Series was launched sat the M135i. With its big, 316bhp straight-six engine and rear-wheel drive, it was an unusual take on the traditional hot hatch recipe, but became much-loved for its balanced chassis and thumping power. It was upgraded to 322bhp in 2015, and then in 2016, to 335bhp, this last revision bringing with it a name change to M140i.
  • Most 1 Series are five-doors, but BMW did make a three-door version. Not many were sold, and these days it remains unloved, so it’s much cheaper to buy than the equivalent five-door. If you don’t plan to use the rear seats much and can therefore live with the reduced practicality, that makes it a tempting buy, but be warned that selling it on later won’t be as easy.

  • If you need cheap fuel costs: 116d EfficientDynamics SE. It might not be the quickest 1 Series money can buy, but that’s not to say the 116d isn’t without appeal. Notably, it can do around 60mpg in normal driving, making it a great option for those who want to minimise their fuel costs while still getting the BMW driving experience.
  • If you want an automatic: 120i SE auto. A post-facelift 120i automatic in SE trim can make for a smooth and punchy pairing in the 1 Series. Bear in mind tax costs will be much higher than for the equivalent diesel model.
  • If you fancy something sporty: M135i/M140i: These flagship performance versions of the 1 Series are truly entertaining small hot hatches. The combination of six-cylinder power under the bonnet and a rear-wheel-drive setup makes for a truly engaging driving experience. Just mind how you go in the wet, and don’t skimp on costs when it comes to replacement tyres.
Alex Robbins
Published 8 Sept 2021 by Alex Robbins
Alex used to be the used cars editor for What Car? and Autocar as well as the Daily Telegraph's consumer motoring editor. He covers all manner of new car news and road tests, but specialises in writing about used cars and modern classics. He's owned more than 40 cars, and can usually be found browsing the CarGurus classifieds, planning his next purchase.

Main rivals

Body styles

  • Three-door hatchback
  • Five-door hatchback