Overview of the Bmw 1
BMW was rather slow to react to the Audi A3, with the 2004 1 Series arriving seven years later. At least it offered a great USP that remains a segment exclusive: rear-wheel drive. The BMW 1 Series range comprised hatchback, coupe and convertible models before the latter two variants became known as the 2 Series in 2014.
BMW 1 SERIES GENERATIONS
2004-2011
2011 onwards
RUNNING COSTS
Fuel Consumption
2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 4.2 to 4.3 litres per 100km
1.5L 3-cylinder turbo: 5.2 to 5.4 litres per 100km
2.0L 4-cylinder turbo: 5.9 to 6.6 litres per 100km
3.0L 6-cylinder turbo: 7.1 to 7.8 litres per 100km
= Highly economical.
= Good economy.
= Average fuel use.
= Heavy consumption.
Servicing
BMW's Service Inclusive package for the 1 Series currently costs from about $1395, covering five years or 80,000km (whichever comes first). BMW 1 Series parts and accessoriescan be found on Gumtree.
SIMILAR MODELS TO BMW 1 SERIES
Audi A3
Lexus CT200h
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
Volkswagen Golf
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: BMW 1 SERIES (2011 ON)
This version of the 1 Series came along just after BMW's problems with timing-chain stretch on its 1.6-litre engine. So, these cars shouldn't exhibit this trait.
That said, BMW messed around with anything up to four different camchain-tensioner designs to solve the problem, so we'd still be having a close listen for a rattling noise on start-up.
Check the vacuum pump has been sufficiently lubricated, which supplies the assistance to the car's braking. If not, the pump could fail, leaving the car with no brake-booster. The brakes would still work, but the pedal would need an awfully big push from the driver to pull things up quickly in an emergency.
The other thing to check with the little BMW is that all the electrical accessories and do-dads work properly. That includes the sunroof and the cruise control. And make sure the air-conditioner blows icy cold.
