BMW 1 Series hatchback - Interior & comfort
A new focus on technology puts its interior in contention with the class leaders
The latest 1 Series has moved on considerably from the previous generation and the new interior is likely to be one of the most popular aspects with buyers. A driver-centric approach turns the fascia and key controls towards the driver with new technology to take on the competition from Audi and Mercedes.
BMW 1 Series dashboard
Directly ahead of the driver sits a set of conventional dials in lower trims, or a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel in higher spec versions. A central infotainment display of the same size is mounted by its side and tilted towards their field of view, designed for touch operation. Material quality is of the highest order and there are plenty of neat touches like backlit strips of trim. It feels sturdier and more expensive than rivals like the Cupra Leon and Mazda3, although it’s worth noting that many of the more upmarket features like leather seats are optional. A band of physical buttons can be used to adjust the climate control without using the touchscreen, sitting above two cupholders, unlike the Volkswagen Golf and Cupra Leon with their frustrating touch-sensitive sliders.
Equipment
Trim levels include SE, Sport and M Sport, with the most affordable coming with 16-inch alloy wheels, an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, cruise control, LED headlights and all-round parking sensors. Sport adds 17-inch wheels, contrast stitching, sports seats and a new body styling kit.
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M Sport is likely to be as popular as ever, with 18-inch double-spoke alloy wheels, cloth and Sensatec faux-leather upholstery, an M Sport leather steering wheel, sport suspension and a racier look inside and out.
The 128ti gets several minor styling tweaks to mark it out from the M Sport models. A sportier bodykit with wider side skirts is fitted, along with a new front splitter, a carbon fibre rear diffuser, and red contrasting accents and matching ‘ti’ badges. A choice of 18 or 19-inch alloy wheels can also be specced. Inside, an Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel features, along with sports seats and stainless steel pedals. It also gets unique graphics for the digital dial cluster and infotainment system, plus the option of a 9.2-inch head-up-display.
Options
BMW offers several option packs to group together kit, including a Comfort Pack with cargo nets and boot convenience items, exterior lighting when you get in and out, folding door mirrors and heated seats. An extension of this enables smartphone unlocking, a remote tailgate and heated steering wheel. A Tech Pack adds wireless charging, head-up display, park assist and Icon Adaptive LED headlights. Upgrading to leather seats costs around £1,100, while a panoramic sunroof is £1,000.
