BMW series 1  

BMW was right to anticipate a place in the market for its 1-Series, launched in 2004, as sales have been strong as younger customers take their first step on the BMW ladder. The range is improved from 2007 with a range of fuel-saving measures introduced on most models that drivers will hardly notice, and, importantly, do not have an adverse impact on what BMW owners expect from the overall driving experience. Up to 60mpg is offered on diesel models while all four-cylinder engines are also more powerful, as well as more efficient. There are more practical cars available for the money, but none so engaging to drive, and the new frugal technology adds another trump card.

 The driving position is quite low, adding to the sporty appeal of the 1-Series. The steering wheel adjusts for reach and rake, which makes finding a comfortable driving position easy. BMW's iDrive - a system used on its larger cars to control functions like satellite navigation, ventilation and entertainment with a single dial is an option. Many people will find that although initially confusing, this is a feature they will get used to. The three-door version has a shallower rear window than on the five door, so visibility seems to suffer more if choosing this version.Room in the back falls short of that offered by Volkswagen's Golf and the Audi A3 Sportback. There's not really enough room for three adults in the rear, and it's short on head and legroom. The back is also quite tricky to access, because of a high sill. The rear seat backs split 60/40 and fold flat on to the fixed rear bench to extend luggage space. You have to choose ES models or higher for air conditioning, and electric rear windows are optional on all below 120i and 120d.Five-speed gearboxes on 116i and 118i until 2006 - six-speed on others. Six airbags; brake force display; run-flat tyres with puncture warning system; on-board computer; Isofix child seat mountings and CD player. SE adds: 16-inch alloys; automatic climate control; front arm rest; front fog lamps; interior auto dimming mirror; three-spoke leather sports multifunction steering wheel; lights package and rear park distance control. Sport models add Black Gomera interior trim; colour coded exterior body parts; sports seats and sports suspension. M Sport is as the Sport model but with a styling kit. Options include: a six-speed automatic gearbox (120i, 120d); leather trim; business and professional navigation and iDrive controller/folding screen; HiFi speaker system; Professional HiFi with Logic7.