Vehicle Overview
| Segment | Compact hatchback / premium small car |
| Body Style | 5-door hatchback |
| Model Year | 2019 (third generation, F40) |
| Trim Levels (Europe/UK) | SE, Sport, M Sport, M135i xDrive |
The BMW 1 Series is the brand’s entry point into its luxury lineup — a premium compact hatchback that combines sharp styling, advanced technology, and dynamic handling.
The third-generation model (F40) made a major change, moving from rear-wheel drive to a front-wheel-drive-based platform (shared with the MINI Clubman and X1). Despite this shift, it maintains BMW’s signature engaging drive and refined cabin quality, offering stiff competition to the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz A-Class, and Volkswagen Golf.
Key Specifications
| Variant | Engine | Power / Torque | 0–62 mph | Drivetrain | Economy (WLTP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 118i | 1.5L Turbo 3-cyl Petrol | 138 hp / 220 Nm | 8.9 s | FWD | 47–51 mpg (UK) |
| 120d xDrive | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl Diesel | 188 hp / 400 Nm | 7.0 s | AWD | 54–58 mpg |
| M135i xDrive | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl Petrol | 302 hp / 450 Nm | 4.8 s | AWD | 38–41 mpg |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual (base), 7-speed DCT, or 8-speed automatic |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 175.5 × 69.9 × 58.1 in |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 in |
| Boot Space | 380 L (13.4 cu ft) / 1,200 L (42.4 cu ft) folded |
| Kerb Weight | 1,320–1,570 kg |
Exterior Design
The BMW 1 Series blends sporty aggression with everyday practicality. Its wide kidney grille, LED headlights, and sharp body creases give it a bold, athletic presence.
The M Sport trim adds larger air intakes, sportier bumpers, and 18–19” alloys, while the range-topping M135i gets a unique mesh grille and dual exhausts.
From the rear, its wraparound LED taillights and short overhangs give it a tidy, dynamic stance — unmistakably BMW in every detail.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Inside, the 1 Series feels every bit a premium BMW. The cockpit is driver-focused, with high-quality materials, solid ergonomics, and ambient lighting.
Seats are supportive and available in cloth, leather, or Alcantara, depending on trim. The M Sport adds sport seats and a thicker steering wheel.
Rear passenger space has improved significantly over previous generations, thanks to the switch to front-wheel drive. The 380-litre boot is generous for a compact hatchback.
Features & Infotainment
10.25-inch BMW iDrive infotainment system (standard)
10.25-inch digital driver display
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (voice control)
Head-Up Display (optional)
Harman Kardon 12-speaker premium audio (optional)
Wireless phone charging, USB-C ports
Dual-zone climate control & ambient lighting
The iDrive 7.0 interface remains one of the smoothest and most intuitive systems in the class.
Safety & Ratings
| Euro NCAP Rating | Five stars (October 2019), tested as a left-hand-drive 118i — a rating that expired on 1 January 2026. Category scores: adult occupant 83%, child occupant 87%, vulnerable road users 76%, safety assist 72%. Euro NCAP’s later 1 Series record, published in September 2025, is four stars (Euro NCAP 2019 and 2025, checked 2 October 2026). |
Key Safety & Driver Assistance Systems
Forward Collision Warning with Auto Braking
Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keep Assist
Blind-Spot Monitoring & Cross-Traffic Alert
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Parking Assistant with Rearview Camera
Automatic High Beams & Traffic Sign Recognition
Driving Performance & Handling
Despite its front-drive layout, the 1 Series remains fun and confidence-inspiring to drive. Steering is precise, body roll is well controlled, and the suspension balances comfort with sportiness.
The M135i xDrive adds all-wheel drive, launch control, and a limited-slip differential, offering serious hot hatch performance — sprinting from 0–62 mph in under 5 seconds.
Noise insulation is excellent, and ride quality remains supple even on larger wheels. It’s refined on the motorway yet agile on twisty roads — a true BMW blend.
Fuel Efficiency
118i: 47–51 mpg (UK)
120d xDrive: 54–58 mpg
| M135i xDrive | 38–41 mpg |
Mild-hybrid tech on diesel variants enhances stop/start smoothness and boosts real-world efficiency.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
380L boot (13.4 cu ft), expandable to 1,200L
Split-folding 40/20/40 rear seats
Wide door openings and good visibility
Generous interior storage and wireless charging tray
Optional powered tailgate (rare in this class)
It’s practical enough for small families while remaining compact for city use.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3 years / unlimited mileage (UK/EU) |
| Service Packages | BMW Service Inclusive plans available (covers maintenance up to 5 years) |
| Roadside Assistance | Standard during warranty period |
Price & Value for Money
Starting Price (UK, 2024)
118i SE — £29,950
120d xDrive Sport — £35,500
M135i xDrive — £42,500
With premium build, strong performance, and advanced tech, the 1 Series is competitively priced among luxury hatchbacks and offers solid resale value.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Power (hp) | Drivetrain | Economy (mpg) | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 118i | 138 | FWD | 50 | £29,950 |
| Audi A3 35 TFSI | 150 | FWD | 49 | £30,500 |
| Mercedes A200 | 163 | FWD | 47 | £31,000 |
| VW Golf 1.5 TSI | 150 | FWD | 51 | £27,000 |
The BMW edges ahead in handling precision and cabin quality, while rivals like the A-Class offer slightly more tech-focused interiors.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Premium build and cabin quality
Engaging handling, especially M Sport models
Smooth, efficient powertrains
Strong safety and tech package
Excellent infotainment interface
Cons
No longer rear-wheel drive (for enthusiasts)
M135i ride firm on 19” wheels
Some options add up quickly
Overall Rating
4.6 / 5 Stars – A polished, premium hatchback that blends comfort, style, and driving pleasure with everyday usability.
True Motion Auto has not independently road-tested this vehicle. Specifications, pricing and performance figures are compiled from manufacturer technical data and published independent tests, and are attributed where quoted. Our score reflects a structured research assessment of specifications, pricing, safety data and owner feedback for the segment — not an independent road test. Read how we review cars.
Final Verdict
The BMW 1 Series redefines the compact luxury hatchback formula. While purists may miss its old rear-drive setup, the new generation offers more space, efficiency, and modern tech — without sacrificing BMW’s hallmark handling sharpness.
More BMW reviews: BMW 4 Series US Review, BMW i4 US Review and BMW iX US Review.
It’s perfect for urban professionals and small families who want premium quality, safety, and performance in a compact footprint. The M135i adds real excitement for those craving hot hatch thrills.
BMW 1 Series US: what should American buyers shop instead?
The BMW 1 Series is not sold in the United States, and BMW Blog reports that BMW has no intention of bringing it here. US shoppers looking for the closest equivalent should shop the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe instead. It is effectively the same type of front-drive-based compact BMW, but with a trunk lid rather than the 1 Series hatchback's liftgate. BMW USA offers the 2 Series Gran Coupe as the 228 Gran Coupe, 228 xDrive Gran Coupe and M235 xDrive Gran Coupe, all using a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
| Model | US availability | Key fact |
|---|---|---|
| BMW 1 Series | Not sold in the US | Five-door hatchback |
| 228 Gran Coupe | Sold in the US | Turbo 2.0-liter four |
| 228 xDrive Gran Coupe | Sold in the US | Turbo 2.0-liter four |
| M235 xDrive Gran Coupe | Sold in the US | 312 hp and 295 lb-ft |
For buyers focused on the performance version, Edmunds, BMW USA and Kelley Blue Book list the M235 xDrive at 312 hp and 295 lb-ft, with 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. Pricing lands around $50,000 including destination, and one configured example is listed at $52,650. The platform is front-drive based and shared with Mini. US shoppers also considering another premium compact can compare the Audi A3 review, or step up to our BMW X3 review for the SUV equivalent.
BMW 1 Series price context and what changed for 2026
There is no US BMW 1 Series price because the car is not officially sold here. The current global model is the F70 generation, revealed on June 4, 2024, with production beginning at BMW's Leipzig plant in July 2024 and its market launch following in October 2024. It is a five-door hatchback on the UKL2 platform, measuring 4,361 mm long and 1,459 mm tall, making it 42 mm longer and 25 mm taller than the model it replaced.
Engine choices outside the US include a 1.5-liter turbo three-cylinder producing 122 to 170 hp, a 2.0-liter turbo four producing 204 to 296 hp, and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel with 148 to 163 hp. Some versions use a 48-volt mild-hybrid booster. All use a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, with front-wheel drive standard and xDrive available on the M135. BMW Blog reports that 2026 updates include Cape York Green for M135 and M Sport cars, optional Individual Tanzanite Blue with a black roof, standard dual-zone climate control on models built from February 2026, and BMW's refreshed roundel. BMW Blog also notes there is currently no plug-in hybrid or electric 1 Series.
Next-generation BMW 1 Series: 2028 timing and the electric i1
The current F70 is now a known quantity, so attention has shifted to its successor. Reporting from Autocar, Carscoops, Autoblog and BMW Blog on May 18, 2026 puts the next-generation 1 Series in 2028, after some earlier reports had suggested 2027, with the current car running through 2027 or early 2028. BMW is expected to take a twin-track approach: the combustion and hybrid 1 Series stays on a front-wheel-drive-based platform, while a separate electric i1, developed under the NB0 codename with Neue Klasse technology, is rumored to switch to rear-wheel drive with a single rear motor producing around 322 bhp in base specification.
| Generation | Layout | Powertrains | US availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current F70 (through 2027 or early 2028) | Front-wheel-drive based, xDrive on M135 | Petrol and diesel, 48V mild hybrid on some; no PHEV or EV | Not sold in the US |
| Next generation (due 2028) | ICE and hybrid stay FWD-based; electric i1 rumored RWD | Combustion, hybrid and the electric i1 (about 322 bhp base, per reports) | Still expected to stay out of the US |
Crucially for American readers, nothing in the May 2026 reporting changes the US picture: the next 1 Series is still expected to stay out of the United States, just as the current car does. That keeps the BMW X1 and the 2 Series Gran Coupe covered above as the practical routes into a compact BMW for US buyers.
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW 1 Series sold in the US?
What BMW should US buyers consider instead of the 1 Series?
How powerful is the BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe?
Is there an electric BMW 1 Series?
When is the next BMW 1 Series coming out?
Will the new BMW 1 Series be electric?
Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.