New BMW 1 Series reinvented with focus on practicality

BMW’s Performance Control system is also fitted as standard, while all variants feature a multi-link rear axle and are fitted with a boomerang-shaped rear suspension strut to increase rigidity. The M135i also features extra bracing to further increase stiffness and a bespoke anti-roll bar. There is standard Sport suspension and aerodynamic tweaks too.

At launch, the wider 1 Series range will also include the 118i with a 138bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, as well as the 116d, 118d and all-wheel-drive 120d xDrive diesels, ranging from 114bhp to 188bhp. Lower-end models get a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic, with an eight-speed auto as standard on the 120d. While the 1 Series will launch with only petrol and diesel engines, the new platform can accommodate hybrid systems. Such versions have yet to be confirmed but are expected to be introduced later on.

Wheel sizes ranging from 16in to 19in will be offered (the M135i sits on 18in wheels), with three different suspension systems – standard, the lowered M Sport version and an adaptive system – available. The new 1 Series is 4319mm long, 5mm shorter than its predecessor, largely because the FAAR platform uses transverse engine mountings, while its 2670mm wheelbase has shrunk by 20mm. The car is 34mm wider (at 1799mm), though, and BMW says the new platform allows for more interior space. The firm claims there is an extra 33mm of knee room and up to 19mm of rear head room. The 380-litre boot is 20 litres larger than the old model’s, and BMW says access to the rear and boot is substantially improved by the new design.

The exterior design features a substantially larger grille, in keeping with BMW’s recent designs, while the side of the car is dominated by the traditional ‘Hofmeister kink’ at the C-pillar and two character lines on the main bodywork. Optional full LED headlights and tail-lights are available, with all models featuring LED daytime running lights. A panoramic sunroof can also be added as an option for the first time.

The interior has also been overhauled, with an 8.8in touchscreen as standard that works through gesture and voice control, incorporating BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant. Higher-end models get two 10.25in displays, with a digital instrument cluster and, offered for the first time, a colour headup display.

The interior also features distinctive ‘graining effects’ on the dashboard and door panels, with new coloured backlit trim strips. M Sport trim and the M135i feature an M Sport steering wheel and sport seats including an integrated head restraint. Four trim levels will be offered at launch, although the full UK options have yet to be finalised.

The 1 Series is due on sale on the 28th of May for deliveries in September, with prices starting at £24,430 for the entry-level 118i SE. That compares with a starting price of £23,605 for the five-door version of the outgoing model. The M135i xDrive starts at £36,430.