Used BMW 1 Series review: 2011 to 2019 (Mk2): owner reviews

"The BMW 1 Series is great to drive, efficient and has a high-quality interior, but it’s not the most practical family hatch"

Carbuyer Rating

3.3 out of 5

Owners Rating

3.5 out of 5

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Reviews

Owner Reviews

  • 5 out of 5
  • 4 out of 5
  • 3 out of 5
  • 2 out of 5
  • 1 out of 5
thumbs up65%of people would recommend this car to a friend

Common Problems

  • Other (9 cases)
  • Gearbox / clutch (4 cases)
  • Engine, Suspension (1 case)
  • Electrics (4 cases)
  • Suspension (1 case)
  • Electrics, Engine, Gearbox / clutch (1 case)
  • Engine (1 case)
  • Engine, Other (1 case)
  • Electrics, Other (1 case)
  • Gearbox / clutch, Suspension (1 case)

Review 1 of 68

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116i F20

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

New
Tell us what you think about your car?
First let me start of with this: if you buy a BMW for the badge, you're doing it wrong. Any BMW is a drivers car, meaning you'll probably get less 'luxury' than it's rivals but more fun and feeling than any other. Don't buy a BMW because you're intriged by it's fame or to make you're neighbour jealous. Buy a BMW when you want your rides to be more fun. What can you expect? Well first of all you do get a basic sense of luxury, maybe not as much as it's rivals but good enough. You do have to get options because a standard BMW is quite poorly equipped. Keep in mind that BMW offers a lot of safety options they don't brag about. I'm talking extra airbags (icw golf 6), standard ABS, ESP, hill assist, DTC and many more. Some manufacturers make this optional, BMW makes it standard. But none of it's rivals (not meaning same priced cars) offer the same stability on the road, sporty feeling or cornering abilities. Don't be fooled by the RWD, it offers a lot more safety/stability on the road. This follows the old slogan "freude am fahren". Furthermore you can expect a good, proper build with quality materials. Bare in mind that every manufacturer has it's problems and it's possible you stumble on some issues. After more than a year of owning, I still enjoy every ride, it has a good power output (kW and Nm) and is most certainly a proper and decent car. For people who don't care about cars: you'll be amazed (but what do you really care?) For people who like comfort and gadgets: unless you've got the money, don't buy For people who like sporty cars: definitely buy it! Just be honest to yourself, don't buy it if you've owned a bigger car, or a more powerful car. Question yourself asking: what do I really expect? And if you then decide to buy it, you won't be disappointed!
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

125i m sport

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

0 – 4,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New
Tell us what you think about your car?
Great runaround , bought mainly for the very good auto gearbox, fantastic changes , and with decent power . Similar size inside with seats down to Focus for tip runs , not the quietest inside due to run flat tyre road noise. couldn't face enduring a diesel , mpg is of no concern , I don't live in that world
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

2 out of 5

Car Details

Model

convertable

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

3 - 5 years

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

30
Tell us what you think about your car?
the fuel pump exploded which meant that there were metal filings right through the fuel system and the injectors,fuel lines,fuel tank and pump had to be replaced and the cost was 8k. BMWs cop out was that it was caused by fuel contamination and not by a fit for purpose fuel pump that had only done 52k miles!!!
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Year

2016

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

46
Tell us what you think about your car?
Great car to drive with superb handling. Plenty of options and love ConnectedDrive.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

1 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116D

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

3 - 5 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

35
Tell us what you think about your car?
This is the 2nd 1 Series I have owned and would not recommend any one to buy one. My 1st car bought brand new had numerous problems including electrical problems, leaking floors and too many other things to mention. The worst problem was it needed the timing chain replacing within less than 12 months. There was no warning, the car just literally stopped in the middle of the road!! The chain was replaced under warranty twice but went again out of warranty and cost me a fortune. I thought I had been unlucky and got a rogue car so stupidly traded the first one in for a slightly different model. This time the clutch is one of the various problems. It was replaced under warranty but has just gone again out of warranty. I have only done 28,000 miles and have never worn out a clutch before but the BMW dealer is insisting there is no fault and I will have to pay!! I feel totally ripped off. It is obviously a fault but how can I prove it? I had always wanted a BMW and loved my original car until all the problems started. I feel so upset that I have given them a 2nd chance and now face a huge bill. The people at the dealership are so condescending. Do not buy a 1 Series it will cost you stress, inconvenience and money.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

118d Urban auto

Year

2011

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

52
Tell us what you think about your car?
Great car with best auto gearbox I've driven. Hubby hates autos but has decided to buy a BMW with an auto as he's so impressed with mine. Bought from a family member who luckily got carried away with the extras. Xenons look great and I find the adaptive headlights and assisted full beam very useful. No issue with run flats, plus rear tyres lasted 30,000 miles. Rear space is adequate for my young family - I'm pretty sure I will be sticking with BMWs in the future.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1 Series Coupe 118d Exclusive Edition

Year

2013

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

50
Tell us what you think about your car?
I have had this car little over a month (One Series Coupe Exclusive Edition 118d). Thought I would buy the 13 plate as a lot of people said the previous 1 series model had problems with the timing chain. Low and behold took it to BMW today and they have had to have it till the end of the week as the timing chain needs replacing. Bit annoying as the car has only done 8000 miles! Thank goodness it was covered by warranty otherwise they said it would have cost me £1800!! But the BMW service was exceptional. They were so helpful and because they had no BMW's for me to borrow, the manager authorised BMW to fit the bill for a hire car for the week for me. To be honest the car is absolutely brilliant, took me a little while to get used to rear wheel drive but my god, it moves and handles like a dream! I love this car but the fact the timing chain has already needed to be changed worries me slightly.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Automatic

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

58
Tell us what you think about your car?
No problems
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

55
Tell us what you think about your car?
Ok
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

2-3 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

56
Tell us what you think about your car?
Excellent
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

40
Tell us what you think about your car?
Very economical and practical for everyday use
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Automatic

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

33
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

3 out of 5

Car Details

Model

2-3 litre, Diesel, Automatic

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

42
Tell us what you think about your car?
Doesn't break down but too many problems (knocking rear suspension replaced, lots of rattles inside)
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

More than 20,000

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

55
Tell us what you think about your car?
No problems at all
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

0 – 4,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

47
Tell us what you think about your car?
Good quality of build
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Automatic

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

53
Tell us what you think about your car?
no problems so far but only 5000 miles
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

2-3 litre, Petrol, Automatic

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

30
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

118d

Year

2010

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

3 - 5 years

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

38
Tell us what you think about your car?
I had the 118d M Sport with upgraded alloys and heated leather sports seats. I used the car for commuting, short and long trips. I purchased the car at 46k miles and sold it at 79k miles. I must say in that time the engine, mechanics and electrics didn’t let me down at all! I had the best five years with the 1 Series, it made me smile every time I drove it!
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

120i

Year

65

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

38
Tell us what you think about your car?
Fantastic Car. Far better than all reviews. Sport comfort and eco are all accommodated with this car. Lots of power matching if not beating rivals. Space: I managed to fit built Ikea storage unit in with the seats down due to the length of the car. This didn't fit in the Audi A3 or Golf. The boot is deep and car has great storage. The car is a great place to be while driving. It's extremely comfortable with lots of power. It feels Luke a 3 series. The Business Professional i-Drive is fantastic. The BMW remote is also brilliant. Again rivals do not have this. It's a great all round car. Best in the range.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

1 out of 5

Car Details

Model

118d

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

58
Tell us what you think about your car?
Utter rubbish again from "premium" BMW. Looks great on the outside with a nice badge but overpriced and UNRELIABLE. If you want to spend most of your time having a picnic on the side of a motorway then a BMW is definitely the car for you.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

125d M Sport

Year

2015

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

45
Tell us what you think about your car?
The BMW 125d M Sport is a real wolf in sheep's clothing. A rather understated car. Only true BMW fans will be able to differentiate it from the less potent versions in the 1 series range. A subtle body kit, twin exhaust pipes and upgraded blue M sport brake calipers hint at its sporting potential. This car is a true hot hatch. With performance figures to rival the Golf GTI and Ford Focus ST. Don't let the 2 litre twin turbo diesel engine fool you. The oil burner packs a serious punch with 218bhp and 450nm of torque. It's the torque that really makes the difference with this car. With enough of it to embarrass much larger engined petrol cars. Over taking is a breeze. The eight speed auto gear box is lightening fast and really suits the engine in this car. Combine this with sublime rear wheel drive handling and this car becomes a true driver's car. It's having your cake and eating it. All the performance you would get from a petrol hot hatch but with economy car mpg. No matter how hard you drive it you can't get below 40mpg. To compare this car to other diesel hot hatches isn't fair as they don't come close regarding performance. 0-60 in 6.3 secs and 149mph says it all. The upgraded Harmon Kardon speakers are a Hi-fi enthusiast's dream. The seats are comfy and boot space is more than acceptable. I will agree it's a little cramped in the back but trust me it's the drivers seat where you want to be sat. A superb car that always puts a smile on your face.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

65
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

40
Tell us what you think about your car?
No problems to report
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

45
Tell us what you think about your car?
Too short a time to provide detailed response
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

51
Tell us what you think about your car?
Car went through a 3 month period of going in to safe mode whilst driving, fault took ages to be rectified.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

50
Tell us what you think about your car?
Only 4 months old when I bought it but so far very impressed with reliability .
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used
Tell us what you think about your car?
Never had a problem. No rattles. Everything works
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

53
Tell us what you think about your car?
Problem free
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

More than 20,000

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

51
Tell us what you think about your car?
I have had no problems whatsoever
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

38
Tell us what you think about your car?
its ok but whould have expected more from a bmw
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

2-3 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

54
Tell us what you think about your car?
New car, no problems - yet?
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

41
Tell us what you think about your car?
There have been no problems
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

1 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116i

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

0 – 4,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

26
Tell us what you think about your car?
Disappointed. I am a very keen car lover, and about 3 years ago I bought a brand new 116d M Sport in Estoril blue, then 2 years later a black 116d M Sport. i decided I didn't want car finance anymore so i sold the car and I outright bought a used 116i auto. now be warned this car is not good for fuel economy, I get 26mpg and 250 miles out of a tank at a push. this car has corroded wheels, the boot lid is rusty and overall I must say it is a disappointing car. After 2 weeks of owning it, the exhaust fell ofF! I'm not happy at all with this car.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

3 out of 5

Car Details

Model

118i Sport 5dr

Year

2016

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

27
Tell us what you think about your car?
At the age of 40 I decided it was time to treat myself to a car from one of the three German brands. After testing the Mercedes A Class, Audi A3, and 1 Series I chose the 118i Sport. I actually preferred the A3 but the monthly payments were too high. The first few weeks of ownership were good. I felt pretty smug in my premium small hatch. It's comfortable, relatively sporty (although the 1.5 litre 3 pot turbo needs some welly to get the best out of it) and it is a handsome car (the pre facelift looked more natural though). Then the niggles started appearing. The terrible gearbox - so notchy. Reverse can sometimes take 4 or 5 attempts. First gear is always hard to select. Then in warm weather the car started creaking when going over speed bumps or round corners (a known issue that BMW deny - check the forums). I also noticed I was stalling the car a lot. You might say driver error, but with 18 years experience I've rarely stalled in the past. The fact the boot doesn't unlock if you get out the car with the engine running. The seemingly endless alerts the car gives you with no real reason (it just beeped at me when I turned the engine off - I have no idea why). The centre console creaks when you test your leg on it. The awful one touch indicators. The tailgate constantly says it is open when it isn't. Then there's the handling. Near 50/50 with rear wheel drive - doesn't play as well as advertised. Vague steering, oversteer on anything but perfectly dry roads, regular wobbles for no reason. There are Just too many negatives for it to be with the money. Huge disappointment.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

2 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116D SE

Year

2015

Avg annual mileage

More than 20,000

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

60
Tell us what you think about your car?
Having experienced a number of company cars in the past few months, I have to say that BMW obviously trade on their name and not the quality of their vehicle. Compared to both the Mazda 3 and Toyota Auris I drove until recently, this car is a real drop off in interior quality and general driving experience. It has a super stiff clutch which is causing me knee pain, a heavy lumbering front end and huge amounts of car and gear stick rattle when the engine starts ans stop/starts; it's like a bus! At least it looks quite nice. My family were envious when they saw the car but after a quick drive they've all changed their mind on BMWs. Glad I get to change in a few months.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

1 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116D

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

40
Tell us what you think about your car?
This ultimate driving machine I don't think so this car is very hard on the suspension the build quality inside and outside is very poor, this car had run flat tyres fitted that lasted just 17000 miles and were very expensive to replace ,the car was very awkward to get into unless you are tiny, noisy engine poor gear change unfortunately I can not find anything good to say about this car. This is the last time I will buy a German car.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

2-3 litre, Diesel, Automatic

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

50
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

62
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

60
Tell us what you think about your car?
As you would expect from BMW .. V High Quality
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

3 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

42
Tell us what you think about your car?
The DMF is on its way out, took it into main dealers to be fobbed off with the old "its within tolerance" car has done 8K miles, why do manufacturers persist with these horrid unreliable DMF things.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

1 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116 D

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

50.2
Tell us what you think about your car?
Totally hate this car. Very small interior, boot is a joke - I cant fit the monthly shop in just the boot, I have to use the back seats. Very difficult to get in to reverse The biggest issue is this is a very expensive basic car. It has nothing, but that is BMWs, you only pay for the name, which in my opinion is not a very good brand.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

48
Tell us what you think about your car?
It's a fantastic car, one of the best I've owned over the past 10 years as compared to BMW118 and Audi A3 and Audi A4
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

56
Tell us what you think about your car?
I had a rear bulb failure which required rectification by the dealer under warranty
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

36
Tell us what you think about your car?
Not had any problems
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Automatic

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

49
Tell us what you think about your car?
Never had an issue!
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

More than 20,000

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

48.9
Tell us what you think about your car?
I've had starting problems, electrical problems and the infotainment system is unpredictable
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

2-3 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

58
Tell us what you think about your car?
100% at this time
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

118d Urban Auto 5dr

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

47
Tell us what you think about your car?
Having down sized from a 5 Series was a bit apprehensive at first, but have not been disappointed enjoy every time i get behind the wheel drives just like a bigger car and the eight speed auto box is a dream have been so impressed that i have just placed an order in for a new 120d M Sport Auto. Refined motoring with affordable running costs.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

M140i

Year

2018

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

30
Tell us what you think about your car?
Let’s be honest we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to hot hatches at the moment. With a large crop of two litre four pots all turbocharged within an inch of their lives and trick 4WD systems that boggle the laws of physics, why? Why would you opt for the baby Beemer? Well if you are considering a 140i then you already know the answer. As for the rest of you guys, the BMW is the only car in its class to offer a three litre straight six with twin scroll turbos and rear wheel drive. Or right wheel drive as true petrol heads will refer to it. As our friends from the U.S of A like to point out, “There ain’t no replacement for displacement!” Whilst many of the current crop of 4WD two litre super-hatches may get the jump on the Beemer off the line, once you get the little 1 series rolling it is a hard beast to catch. 340hp and 500nm make this little pocket rocket an absolute weapon in the real word. The performance figures are mightily impressive too with a 4.6 second sprint to 62mph and a limited top speed of 155mph.The BMW sales executive informed me that this little unassuming car would sale past 170mph with the limiter removed. Some reports suggest that the new B58 motor under the hood is kicking out much more power than the manufacturer claims. I don’t know about all that but one thing I can say is that the M140i is blisteringly quick. Enough so that it musters an expletive from any passengers lips whenever I plant my right foot on the accelerator pedal. The torque is immense and it can be delivered in any gear at any speed. Couple this with the glorious sound of a howling straight six and I guarantee you will be in petrol head heaven. Whilst some reports suggest that the crackles and pops from the exhaust can be a little muted from inside the cabin, I find by cracking a window open slightly allows you to hear the delicious burble from the twin pipes. An M Performance exhaust can heighten the aural pleasure, but trust me if you’re stood outside when a 140i goes by you’ll surely hear it even with the standard back box. Handling is sweet due to the RWD set up with a slightly light steering feel but bags of grip from all four corners. Adaptive dampers make the ride and handling more supple and the optional Michelin pilot tyres give the car more bite. (even if they are a tad noisy on the motorway). I have a gripe with reviewers that call this a eight-tenths car. Trust me you can’t drive one of these beasts at five-tenths on the public highways. On a track the M140i may not be as sharp as say a Civic Type R but really, what message are you sending out driving a car that looks to have every modification from Halfords glued to it? Don’t get me wrong the Type R is a fine machine but at 41 years of age I would look foolish driving one. This brings me on to the competition and why I think the 140i shines. The Ford Focus RS is fantastic but for me it brings too much attention with it. The M140i is a wolf in sheep's clothing. The Audi RS3 and Mercedes A45 AMG are ridiculously expensive. When you start to push north of fifty grand for what essentially is still just a hatchback. you have to Check yourself before you wreck yourself. Wreck yourself financially that is! This is once again where the Beemer makes huge sense. One can be had for as little as thirty grand. Ok maybe little is the wrong word to use but it’s around fifteen to twenty grand cheaper than a RS3! Is the Audi or Merc for that matter twenty grands worth more of a car? No, I don’t believe so. There’s discounts to be had too. You could get a heavily loaded 140i for mid thirties. I’m talking about the good stuff too. Eight speed ZF gearbox, Harman Kardon sound system, leather upholstery. You name it. Things start to make sense. BMW is a luxury brand and you’re getting luxury but for a fraction of the price of the other German rivals. Ford and Honda and the rest offer similar priced models because they do one thing well, the performance. The M140i seems to tick all the boxes.You should too. Well the box that confirms your order for one anyway.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

2 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116 se

Year

2016

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

49
Tell us what you think about your car?
As a driver you get lots of feedback from the steering and it goes where you point it unless your right foot is heavy then it slide away but in a controllable way. Very nippy if you want it to be. I do about 60 miles a day and am in and out at least 10 times a day. The 3 biggest problems I have with this BMW is : 1. The seating, I couldn't get comfortable and you feel very low to the road. 2. The radio signal is like something from 1970, even in the city the signal would drop out very often on lots of different station. It feel like if there is a tiny drop in strength then it drops out then picks it up again 3 seconds later, so annoying. 3. The Sat Nav is terrible, you can't enter a postcode on its own, you have to go through the system like you're writing a letter. I couldn't even find the road to the hotel next to the O2 in London it's only been there 2 years. Glad to get rid of this car, hope the B class Merc is better.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

Xdrive25dxline

Year

2016

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

43
Tell us what you think about your car?
Comfortable,economical,lots of interior space, great size and practical. Great driving experience and rather fun when extra power required overall one of the best cars I've owned in 42 years of driving.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

3 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116d M Sport

Year

2013

Avg annual mileage

0 – 4,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New
Tell us what you think about your car?
So after only 8 days of owning the car, it now needs to go BMW to be fixed! I suppose I should start off with the positives - I've got to say the car looks great! And until yesterday drove lovely! The ride considering the M Sports harder dampers is comfortable and has very little road noise The overall interior is good, nice little touches here and there especially the steering wheel also has a nice feel. The seats also are very comfy. And the arm rest is huge which obviously was designed with driver and passenger in mind. Gearbox is smooth and the clutch (on mine anyway) is not too harsh on the left leg! The i-drive is always very good basically unlimited radio stations to save and sound quality is top notch! Parking sensors all round are also a must! Overall many many things I like about the car. But now we get to the many many things I don't like!! - The pedals are off-centred so it's feels like the top half of your body is nice and straight while your legs go off it another direction and the clutch and foot rest are too close together so you catch it every so often - the steering wheel whist great and nice to touch is an annoying size when it comes to looking at the instruments. If you want to look at your mpg/mileage easily then when you move the wheel down to see them it then covers the speedo? Which I know is petty but it's a £20,000 + BMW not a Skoda Fabia -Also for some reason you need a body builders left arm to get it into reverse? - the rear window also too small! If I didn't have parking sensor this would be a pain in the arse! - I'm also having problems with connecting my I phone to the car which could be an apple problem? - the back seats are a bit too cramped when their is 5 people travelling - now by biggest hate what seems to be the clutch is making a noise when I release it and apply revs? Also when I steer I sometimes get the same noise so back to BMW it goes... To hopefully resolve the problem. All in all I'm happy with my purchase and will hopefully be even more happy when the problem is fixed!
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

1 out of 5

Car Details

Model

116d SE 5dr

Year

2013

Avg annual mileage

0 – 4,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

65
Tell us what you think about your car?
I always promised myself a BMW when I retired so last year when I did actually take the retirement route I went off to a Glasgow BMW dealer for a new 1 Series. First of all, the BMW website is unintelligible and it's virtually impossible to find out what the spec of your chosen car is. However, I took the plunge and ordered one. When the day came to collect it the first thing that struck me was the absence of even the most basic of toys. For example, there are no rear parking sensors which are in my view a necessity because of very small rear window. The list of accessory deficiencies could fill a book. The iDrive system has to have been designed by a lunatic, how can anyone be expected to operate the radio or the CD player whilst twiddling a knob on the console, watching it on a screen and drive the car? The fit and finish are reasonably good but not exceptionally so and there are many little buzzes and creaks around the cabin as the has car aged. The mileage is probably the car's best feature and on one occasion, with no stops and a steady 40 mph I achieved an astonishing 81.6 mpg. I was so shocked I took a picture of the display! As to driving the car, I have to say that it is quite the most awkward thing I have ever driven. The pedals are offset to the right which requires you to turn your body around to accommodate them. Add to that the clutch is so heavy that I have actually damaged my knee. A look on the web shows that this is common across the range and a simple adjustment or replacement of the clutch plate sorts the problem. However, when I took it to the dealership I was told by two 'engineers' that there is nothing wrong with the clutch but they would be prepared to dismantle the gearbox if I would give them an undertaking to pay for the job if they found nothing wrong. Needless to say, I told them to stuff it. BMW's service helpline were no use either and I am left with the conclusion that this is some sort of 'scheme' for their benefit rather than mine. I wonder if they apply the same nonsense to their 7 series or their Rolls-Royce clientele? In conclusion it handles well but the rear-wheel drive takes some getting used to on bendy country roads, the economy is unmatched in a 2 ltr car and when desired it can shift very nicely. If you have legs like Wayne Rooney you'll probably be able to handle the stiff clutch but for almost everyone else, you'll need to get a good orthopaedic surgeon. As to BMW's service...na, I bet even Dacia treat their customers better and without condescension. I am in the process of trading it in for a 2015 Focus Titanium X automatic which is what I should have gone for in the first place. All in all, a VERY expensive mistake.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

62
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

51
Tell us what you think about your car?
Fan unit (air con) needed replaced after 4 months. Otherwise, no issues thus far.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

50
Tell us what you think about your car?
Problem with aircon fan
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

More than 20,000

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

55
Tell us what you think about your car?
No problems
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

2 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

45
Tell us what you think about your car?
replaced the DMF at 5K and needed another one at 9K miles
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Automatic

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

0 – 4,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

45
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

40
Tell us what you think about your car?
No problems so far, not even a rattle after 11 months
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

47.4
Tell us what you think about your car?
Poor quality interior and poor quality paintwork.
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

43.9
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

57
Tell us what you think about your car?
No issues so far
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Automatic

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

10,000 – 14,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

55
Tell us what you think about your car?
great well built and good quality
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

5 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Diesel, Manual

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

15,000 – 19,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

57
Tell us what you think about your car?
A couple of minor issues
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Manual

Year

2011

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

1 - 2 years

Bought Car

New

Typical MPG

40
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

4 out of 5

Car Details

Model

1.5-2 litre, Petrol, Automatic

Year

2012

Avg annual mileage

5,000 – 9,999

Owned

Less than a year

Bought Car

Used

Typical MPG

40
Tell us what you think about your car?
Niggles such as intermittent electrical glitches, cannot be found when at dealer?
Would you recommend the car to a friend?

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