BMW 1 Series

Adopting an innovative design

The new 1 Series’ window graphics and character lines are similar to those of the current model, so you might think it’s a minor change. However, if you look closely, you’ll see that the front grille is lower and further forward, and some models feature a novel design with a diagonal line inside the kidney grille. The headlights have also been redesigned to have a bold yet gentle look.

And the best evidence that this is a full model change is the internal company code, which has been updated from the previous F40 to F70. The wheelbase is the same at 2670mm, but the character line that we pointed out earlier as being similar has been given a gently rounded shape in line with recent trends, and the rear edge of the window graphics also incorporates a line that could be called a modern version of the Hofmeister kink, so we should probably consider this a new model as the manufacturer claims.

The interior quality has also been significantly improved

However, once you step inside the car, you’ll find a landscape that is significantly different from the previous model. Particularly impressive is the adoption of the curved display that is familiar from BMW’s high-end models. The area around the center console has also been redesigned with a three-dimensional shape that clearly faces the driver. In addition, the driving mode switching has evolved to the same My Mode type as the high-end model. Not only does it change the characteristics of the steering and powertrain, but the colors of the display and ambient lighting also change, greatly changing the atmosphere of the cabin.

The models available in the home country are the 1.5-liter gasoline 120, the 2.0-liter diesel 118d and 120d, and the 2.0-liter gasoline M135 xDrive, for a total of four types. All gearboxes use a 7-speed DCT. Another piece of news is that the 120 and 120d are equipped with a 48V mild hybrid system. Of these, we test drove two of the models, the 120 and M135, which are expected to be introduced in Japan.

Just to be clear, this generation of 1 Series also has a transversely mounted engine as the base for front-wheel drive, with only the M135 being four-wheel drive. In other words, it is a different platform from the 2 Series Coupe such as the M2. Also, since the “i” that previously indicated a gasoline model will now indicate a BEV, the model names of gasoline models have generally been changed to simple three-digit numbers.

Excellent sense of security on wet roads

The first to get behind the wheel was the M135. It’s a high-performance model with a maximum output of 300 PS, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, but I personally found the engine quiet and pleasant. The torque characteristics were flat and easy to handle, and the engine was powerful, revving smoothly and smoothly all the way up to 6000 rpm, where the redline begins. I had no complaints.

The handling is precise, allowing for precise line tracing. Unfortunately, the weather was pretty heavy and rainy that day, but thanks to the excellent traction provided by the xDrive, I didn’t feel any anxiety at all. The M135 gets a perfect score of almost 100, but the ride is a little stiffer than I like. Still, thanks to the highly rigid body, there’s no unpleasant vibration, which is impressive, but considering everyday use, I personally wish it was just a little milder.

The other car, the 120, is over 100 kg lighter than the M135, giving it a strong sense of agility. The three-cylinder engine makes a slightly rough noise, but I don’t think it’s significantly inferior to the C-segment standard. On the other hand, the suspension is supple and the ride is comfortable, yet the handling is almost as precise as the M135. The balance as a car is surprisingly excellent.

For everyday use, a milder ride is recommended.

The innovative highly preloaded anti-roll bar bearing contributes to achieving both comfort and handling. This uses a bearing with excellent sliding properties between the anti-roll bar and the supporting member. By tightening this firmly, smooth operation of the anti-roll bar is achieved.

REPORT/Tatsuya OTANI

PHOTO/BMW AG

MAGAZINE/ GENROQ December 2024 issue

SPECIFICATIONS

BMW M135 xDrive

Body size: Length 4361mm, width 1800mm, height 1459mm,

wheelbase: 2670mm,

engine: inline 4-cylinder DOHC turbo,

total displacement: 1998cc,

maximum output: 221kW (300PS) / 5750-6500rpm,

maximum torque: 400Nm (40.8kgm) / 2000-4500rpm,

transmission: 7-speed DCT,

drive system: AWD,

suspension type: front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link,

brakes: front and rear ventilated discs,

0-100km/h acceleration: 4.9 seconds,

top speed: 250km/h

[Inquiries]

BMW Customer Interaction Center

TEL 0120-269-437
https://www.bmw.co.jp/

Related reading

The fourth-generation BMW 1 Series is being introduced in Japan with a completely new design and a mild hybrid powertrain.

BMW has introduced the fourth-generation 1 Series to Japan. This premium compact hatchback features a completely redesigned design and a mild hybrid powertrain. The first models to be introduced are a 1.5-liter inline-3 turbo 48V mild hybrid model and a 2.0-liter inline-4 gasoline turbo engine model, with deliveries scheduled to begin in November.