2024 BMW 1 Series 120 MHEV 7AT FWD (156 HP)

Vehicle Overview

The fourth generation of the 1 Series saw the broad light in the first days of the summer of 2024, with production and sales starting in October of the same year, and the changes were significant.

It was the second generation to use a front-wheel-drive platform, UKL2, shared with the MINI Countryman and the BMW X1/X2. The German automaker introduced the model during a special event and released it as a five-door hatchback-only affair. It was the first of the 1 Series to sport electrified drivetrains and featured only transversely mounted engines under its hood. While this technical solution was criticized by the brand’s hard-core fans, it was still an appealing offer as an entry model in the carmaker’s range. It had something for everyone, from those looking for a premium hot hatch to those craving a fuel-efficient vehicle for their daily commute.

Up front, the 2025 BMW 1 Series featured the automaker’s new design language. Its angular-shaped, broad upper grille was encircled by a chromed trim for the lower-spec versions, while the M135 fitted with the M-Sport Pro package sported a shiny black one. All versions had received LED lights, with an option for adaptive or Matrix-LED illumination. The lower bumper differed depending on the package, with the lower grades sporting a broad air intake in the apron flanked by small vertical scoops, while the upper trim levels fitted with the M-Sport package and up had a more aggressive look, featuring a chin spoiler and taller side air intakes.

The automaker didn’t cheap out when it created the car’s profile, installing more expensive but better-looking sculptured doors. They were neatly underlined by body-colored side sills and, depending on the options, by shiny black accents on the door mirror stalks and window surroundings. BMW tried to conceal the transversely mounted engine up front by creating a cab-rearward look for the vehicle. However, the longer front overhang and taller hood revealed the actual technical characteristics of the vehicle. The 2025 BMW 1 Series was fitted with a choice of wheels ranging between 17- and 19-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trims and options. Out back, besides the sportiest model, all versions had concealed exhausts behind the lower side of the bumper that featured a black valance with or without a massive diffuser.

Inside, the automaker offered a plethora of options so that the customers could create their personalized vehicles. Regardless of the version, though, all of them featured the same curved display on the dashboard, where the 10.25″ screen fronting the driver was for the instrument panel, while the 10.7″ one placed atop the center stack was for the iDrive infotainment system and was touch-sensitive. There were also a few versions for the seats, covered in fabric, Alcantara, or faux leather. The M-Sport versions also had a specific three-spoke steering wheel and a 12-o’clock marking. BMW also offered a sunroof as an option, which could be opened. In the back, legroom and headroom were adequate even for taller people. Behind them

Under the hood, BMW installed a wide choice of diesel and gasoline engines. The 120 and the 120d versions featured 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, which helped customers reduce emissions. At the other end of the scale was the M135 xDrive, which was powered by a turbocharged two-liter gasoline unit that churned out 300 PS (296 hp) sent in all corners. All versions were paired with a seven-speed automatic (dual-clutch) gearbox.