The BMW 1 Series was first introduced in 2004, the company’s answer to the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf. This series was designed to replace the BMW Compact. It shares many components with the 3 Series from BMW, but is certainly its own car.

The 1 Series was first available as a 5-door hatchback, built in Regensburg, Germany. Some engine parts come from England fabrication plants. This model was one of BMWs most popular products from the moment it hit the international marketplace, beat out only by the 3 and 5 Series.

This car starts at around $39,000 with options adding onto the price tag.

Power

The standard engine installed in the 1 Series is the 3.0 L in-line 6, replacing smaller versions that were offered earlier on in the production of this vehicle. The new model reaches speeds of 200 kph and can hit 100 kph from a standing start in just 10.9 seconds. Not bad for a family car.

The five speed transmission has been discontinued as an option and all new models are outfitted with a six-speed manual transmission.

In town, you can expect to get 10 km to the litre, and on the highway, fuel economy is boosted even more.

Performance

To enhance traction and manoeuvrability, BMW has introduced the multi-link rear suspension. This enables the driver to accelerate without losing control, as well as giving the passengers a smoother ride.

Active steering has also been incorporated to make driving easier and more relaxing. This feature automatically adjusts the steering ration according to the car’s speed. It also compensates for skidding.

Design

The BMW 1 Series is a sleek, compact family car that boasts a lot of power. Its almost mini sedan look is charming and modern and BMW has done its best to integrate great design with great performance.

The exterior of the car features a long wheelbase for extra stability, a long nose and short overhangs, typically associated with sports cars, rather than family cars. Here, functionality is blended with style.

Inside the 1 Series, we find the same long, curves and sleekness repeated in everything from the ergonomically designed seats to the gracefully arced dashboard. Leather and aluminium trim add a dash of elegance and class to the interior.

Comfort

If you plan to be driving much, you will want some basic creature comforts. As always, BMW steps up to the plate with their features that border on luxurious.

In the 1 Series, climate control is a standard feature, as are front bucket seats that are fully adjustable and a leather steering wheel. The interior is elegantly designed for comfort as well as safety.

Safety

The 1 Series also features Dynamic Stability Control. This system senses instability as soon as it begins to occur and reacts instantly to correct the problem. The system is particularly useful in icy or slippery weather and adds an extra level of safety.

When braking, the driver receives plenty of help as well, from automatic traction control, the brake assist system and automatic brake distribution system. Cornering brake control is also part of the standard package.

Multiple airbags are installed, included front and rear roof airbags, as well as driver and passenger front and side airbags. Other built-in safety features include adjustable head restraints on all seats, front and back, plus three point seat belts with pre-tensioners.

With the special run-flat tires, you can drive on burst tires for up to 150 km before changing the flat. This is a very useful feature when driving on a highway without any shoulder. Also, for those mechanically inept, this feature gives them enough time to get to a dealership or garage where the problem can be fixed.

To help prevent theft, the BMW 1 Series has an engine immobilizer installed. Another useful item is the ultrasound parking sensor, designed to avoid bumps and scrapes while manoeuvring into a tight parking space.

Public Opinion

Consumers like the comfortable driving position and the fact that they can adjust both the steering wheel and the seat. The outward appearance was also highly rated by users.

The smooth steering and easy handling on any type of road was a big plus for many drivers. Most were impressed with the number of airbags and safety features that are standard issue in the BMW 1 Series.