When you consider how much business the ‘Big Three’ (Audi, Merc and BMW) generates in the UK new car scene, the reticence shown by BMW in respect of swapping the drive from rear to front axles of its high-volume 1-Series is eminently understandable. After all, it is a market sector that will not tolerate errors and, predominated by the company car scene, the need to meet vital parameters is no less than life affirming.
The 1-Series has been with us for 16 years now. It is very well established. Yet, it was becoming abundantly clear that its packaging was below expectations, even though drivers have always adored its dynamic balance. It is one heck of a trade-off; get it wrong in either area and buyers are alienated. It is also a gargantuan shift in focus, with the engines being turned through 90-degrees, connected to the gearbox that fills the under-bonnet space.
Well, let me answer the first question…despite my knowledge and understanding, unlike the 2-Series from BMW (also front-wheel drive), the new 1-Series feels virtually identical to the rear-driven model it replaces, which bamboozles me, because I expected some front-end waywardness, yet there is none. Instead, it is well-balanced, exceptionally well assembled and results in a total ‘win:win’ situation, because the new 1-Series boot is now 380-litres in capacity (20-litres increase, with up to 1,200-litres with the rear seats folded forwards) and the cabin also benefits from significantly greater occupant space, although rear headroom is at a premium.
The car is equally impressive outside too, with a pleasant hatchback style that is derivative but purposeful, fronted by the now customary larger conjoined kidney grilles. It is a handsome machine. Despite sharing a similar footprint to the rear-driver, the new car is actually wider, taller and marginally shorter.
BMW suggests that the 2.0-litre 118d will be its best-selling variant but I have managed to get my hands on the excellent 118i; the least expensive turbo-petrol model. Displacing just 1.5-litres across three cylinders, it still develops a moderate 138bhp, which is enough to whisk it from 0-60mph in a respectable 8.2s, topping-out at a maximum of 132mph. It makes a pleasant low growl, while emitting 114g/km CO2 and returning up to 47.1mpg, while costing from a low-ish £24,430 (pre-discount), which is competitive in the sector.
The weight difference between rear and front-driven models is just 15kgs in the latter’s favour. However, the new 1-Series feels just right, straight out of the box. Its comfortable cabin is impeccably assembled, using high quality materials. It is well-equipped but indulge in the usual BMW options list and it will add seriously to the bottom line. Complete with LED headlights, alloy wheels, central touchscreen and adaptive driving modes, it would be fair to state that BMW has got its sums right.
