BMW 1 Series 116i ES 5dr Car Review - February 2012

Behind the wheel, the 116i ES is light and fun to drive. The mechanisms behind this are supple suspension and a turbocharged 4-cylinder1598cc petrol engine. It produces a maximum of 136 bhp, which is commendable for its size and delivers 162 lb-ft of torque at 4300 rpm. Compared to other 1 Series models, it has the least power dynamics but it is still a good performer. It has a top speed of 130 mph and a 0-62 mph time of 8.5 seconds.

It may be entry level, but the 116i ES is sharp and handles well on the road. The driving position is not perfect, but steering is precise and you will actually have fun driving. It has a firmer ride than a Volkswagen but not so much that it becomes unsettling.

Compared to the diesel models in its range, the 116i runs quietly. There is a bit of noise when it hits bumps and potholes but not to a disturbing level. At high speed, you will enjoy a smooth, noiseless cruise and you can concentrate on your thoughts, music or a conversation in the car. It makes for a good companion on a long drive.

Now, the 116i is better looking than the original 1 Series. Nevertheless, it is not huge on looks. If you are very particular about how your car looks, you may want to give this a miss. It is styled in hatchback outline, with grilles at the front and curvy headlights. Five doors and five seats make it a good medium family car.

Unfortunately, standard kit in the 116i is basic. It’s a shortcoming most entry level cars have to bear. Only climate control, electric door mirrors and front windows, airbags (driver, passenger and front side), immobilizer, alarm and CD player are standard.

Everything else comes at a cost. Most of it is pretty desirable though, so if you are planning on buying this particular model, you might as well budget for it. Set aside £500 for cruise control, £345 for rear parking sensors, £1115 for leather seats, £515 for metallic paint and £200 for Bluetooth connectivity. The brilliant iDrive system would have made operating this car a breeze, but it is not offered on this trim, neither is it available in the Sat Nav options as yet.

The 116i scored a 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test. This means the car is designed to provide maximum protection in case of a crash. Electronic stability control, power steering and central locking all enhance the car's safety level. In addition, you can count on BMW’s reliability to take you through your ride safely.

When it comes to space, the 116i is overruled by close rival VW Golf. However, what is noticeable is an improvement from previous models in that occupants at the front will be able to sit comfortably. Rear passengers will feel cramped with limited head and legroom and the taller ones will be uncomfortable.

Lack of space in the cabin is compensated for in the boot, where you get 360 litres, which is pretty much what competitors in the same class offer. Fold the rear seats and the space increases to a roomy 1200 litres. Cabin storage space is just adequate and there are a number of cup holders in place. A medium sized glove compartment will hold whatever else needs storing.

Running costs are among the lowest in its class, considering the high performance it delivers. In combined cycle, it returns 49.6 mpg which is good for its performance. It has low CO2 emissions at 132g/km and falls under the still low road tax band E which costs £115 annually. Insurance cost is also low, given its group, 18.

At £19,375, it is pricey for its size but its high reliability is a consolation. More consolation for you is that the car will hold its resale value quite well.

Dealer offers are good, with variable service intervals and an unlimited warranty on miles.