2019 BMW 1-Series 118i 7AT FWD (140 HP)

Vehicle Overview

It was a new beginning for the 1 Series, not just because it was the third generation of this nameplate but also because it was redesigned and re-engineered from the ground up.

In 2014, BMW stunned its audience when it introduced the 2 Series Active Tourer model. It was BMW’s answer to premium compact minivans, and in a way, it worked. It was comfortable, roomy, and fuel-efficient. But unlike any other Bimmer in history, it was front-wheel drive. For that car, the automaker created a new platform named UKL2, which was shared with the MINI and with the 2017 1 Series Sedan for the Chinese market. Then, in late 2019, the automaker used the same underpinnings to create the third generation of the 1 Series hatchback, which was available with five doors only. As a result, compared to the first generation that was available in four bodywork versions (5-door hatchback, 3-door hatchback, two-door coupe, and a convertible), the 2020 BMW 1 Series was offered in just one. However, those looking for the sportier version could opt for the 2 Series, which was still an RWD machine, while the regular 1 Series remained a contender in the premium compact segment, fighting with the Audi A3 and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

When it introduced the 2019 BMW 1 Series hatchback, the German automaker needed to create a front fascia that could resemble the model’s predecessors. That was a challenging task since the third generation of this moniker had a shorter and taller hood due to the transversely mounted engine. That led to a redesigned front fascia that featured angular, swept-back headlights with C-shaped daytime running lights. Between them, the automaker placed a broad and tall grille, which was not everybody’s cup of tea. However, that worked to conceal the engine compartment’s height. For the lower part of the bumper, BMW offered two options. The M Sport version featured a broad center air intake flanked by slim and vertical vents, which also served for the air curtains, while the standard came with a simpler design. They had a trapezoidal-shaped grille in the middle and large side scoops that housed the fog lamps.

From its profile, the 2019 BMW 1 Series boasted a muscular appearance, with an ascending waistline that crossed the vehicle front to back and ended in the Hofmeister kink shape on the C-posts. In addition, the automaker created sculptured door panels with another ascending creased line. Out back, the raked-forward tailgate featured a roof spoiler at the top, above the raked-forward rear window. The L-shaped LED taillights were extended from the quarter panels to the metallic area of the tailgate to make the 2019 1 Series look wider.

Inside, BMW introduced a fresh dashboard with a design inspired by the one fitted in the 3 Series (the F30). Base models were fitted with analog dials, while the automaker offered an option for a configurable screen placed inside the instrument cluster. In addition, all of the 1 Series had a new touchscreen for the iDrive infotainment system placed atop the center stack. Depending on the grade and options, the 1 Series came with either bolstered seats or sports seats with integrated headrests at the front. In the back, BMW worked hard to provide more knee room and legroom for the rear-seated passengers. Since the car didn’t have the tall transmission tunnel as on the previous 1 Series generations, that was possible. However, the center console’s ending was a bit too intrusive.

Under the hood, BMW had to stick to the inline-three and inline-four powerplants since it couldn’t fit a six-cylinder unit there. As a result, it had to use the turbocharger technology to give the car more power. Depending on the engine version and options, the 2019 BMW 1 Series was available with powerplants ranging between 116 PS (114 hp) and 306 PS (302 hp). Most versions of the car were available with front-wheel drive systems, although selected ones were available with BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive.