BMW 1 Series 120d Sport Auto 5dr Car Review - February 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £26,505
Tax Band: C
Insurance Group: 24
MPG: 64.2
CO2: 116
0-62 Mph: 7.3 secs
BHP: 184 BHP
Range: 734 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.75/5
BMW’s attempt to build a smaller and more affordable car seemed to be compromised by less expensive and more practical rivals. However, critics do agree that the diesel engines of the 1 Series are powerful and economical, even if the ride can be a little firm.

PROS:  The BMW 1 Series 120d Sport Auto is a rear-wheel drive that delivers a snooth ride even on twisty roads. Its engine is a powerful one and offers better fuel economy, lower running costs and lower CO2 emissions than its rival brands.

CONS:  The materials used in the interior are not consistent with BMW’s high quality. Some look cheap and flimsy. Rivals are fitted with more standard equipment for a cheaper price. The cabin is not particularly spacious and rear visibility is somewhat restricted.

Behind the Wheel

The BMW 1 Series 120d Sport Auto is an 8-speed automatic transmission hatchback powered by a 4-cylinder, 16-valve 1995cc engine. Its top speed is 142 mph and its mpg is 62.8 which indicate that the 120d is ideal for cruising the motorway and driving around town. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 7.3s which shows that this diesel-powered car can handle speed.

The 120d engine delivers 184 bhp at 4000 rpm and has an impressive torque of 280 lb-ft at 1750-2750 rpm. Handling is not as smooth as it could be, but the car is an efficient motorway cruiser. The model grips the road well and has excellent balance for a rear-wheel-drive car. The steering is light which makes this car feel quite agile and more engaging to drive, and even though the diesel engine is not quite as refined as its petrol counterpart, wind- and road-noise are still minimal.

Looks & Equipment

The 1 Series 120d Sport is a second generation 1 Series. The wider and longer profile has improved its looks and the rear looks less pinched, while the rear window is deepened for better rear visibility. The cabin is not that spacious and would struggle to seat 5 grown adults, as the ride would be cramped and uncomfortable for the rear passengers. The interior is not as plush and luxurious as that of its rivals, but still looks neat and tidy.

The sports model has bigger wheels and stiffer suspension. The front seats offer support and adjustments to comfortably seat varied-sized drivers. The sports model is in the same price range as the ES and has the same standard alloy wheels, air-conditioning, MP3 player and four electric windows. It also boasts the addition of foglights, chrome exhaust, sports seats, and multi-function steering. Optional extras include cruise control, leather seats, satellite tracking, front parking sensors and more.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

This model is longer than the 1st generation 1 Series but it is still a bit cramped in the rear. The VW Golf is better in this area. The boot can hold from 360 litres - 1200 litres thanks to the foldable rear seats. The cramped space is attributed to BMW’s rear-wheel-drive system where power from the engine is transferred to the rear through a transmission tunnel. Space was sacrificed for want of a more engaging drive.

The overall Euro NCAP rating for the BMW 1 Series is a perfect 5 star one. Its CO2 emission rating is 119g/km which places this car in the list of eco-friendly medium-sized family cars. The 1 Series is known for its rigidity, agility and balance. Safety is a prime concern of BMW. This car is fitted with a raft system including ASC (automatic stability control), an ABS anti-lock braking, CBC (cornering brake control), DBC (dynamic brake control) and other failsafe functions relating to cornering, steering and braking. Standard on all 1 Series is “run flat-tires” and varied brightness intensity brake lights. BMW 1 Series has a sterling track record. Warranty is unlimited mileage in 3 years.

Value for Money

The current price of a BMW 1 Series 120d Sport Auto 5dr is £26,210 which several thousand pounds more expensive than its rival VW Golf. The 1 Series falls under car insurance group 25, the same as the Alfa Romeo Guillietta and the Audi A3 Sportsback. Road Tax Band is C and mpg is 62.8 which are indications that the BMW1 Series is a good choice for a family car because it is eco-friendly and cost-efficient. Running costs are fairly low.

The BMW 1 Series is not exactly a favorite but since it’s a BMW, it is desirable. The diesel models are the most in-demand and will generally have high resale values. The 118d seems to be the preferred car by critics but all things considered the 120d model should be worth at least 51% of its original price after 60,000 miles.

BMW 1 Series 120d Sport Auto 5dr Car Review - by 
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Medium Family Alternatives

You might want to read reviews for other Medium Family cars that you can then compare to the BMW 1 Series. Here are some popular BMW 1 Series alternatives:

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