BMW 1 Series. Little Bavarian
BMW 1 Series is a compact urban C-class hatchback from the German BMW concern, it has been produced since 2004. The third generation of the 2019 BMW 1 Series is already on the market and it is available in Israel now.
For all the time on the market, BMW 1 series found 1.3 million buyers (data for 2011-2018). Only BMW 3 Series has a higher sales rate in the model range of the German concern. The modern 5-door front-wheel drive hatchback has a striking and expressive design that perfectly reflects its sporty character. Front-wheel drive transmission in combination with innovative technical equipment provides excellent maneuverability and excellent acceleration dynamics. Some versions of the BMW 1 Series are equipped with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.
First generation
The first generation of BMW 1 Series was produced from 2004 to 2012, it was restyled in 2007. The first ‘1’ was back-wheel drive and had several bodies: a three-door and five-door hatchback, as well as a two-door coupe and a convertible. The car became the first experience of the brand in creating compact models, and admittedly, it was quite successful! The little ‘Bavarian’ conquered buyers with a perfectly tuned chassis, as well as good acceleration dynamics. The body of the first BMW 1-series was one of the best in the segment in terms of streamlining. The drag coefficient was 0.29.
The sports version BMW 1 M was created based on the first generation of BMW 1 Series coupe in 2010. It was powered by a three-liter six-cylinder engine producing 340 hp. The acceleration time of the sports coupe from 0 km/h to 100 km/h was 4.9 seconds.
Second generation
The second generation of BMW 1 Series was released in 2011 and it is still produced now. It was restyled twice: in 2015 and 2017. The second generation of BMW 1st series has gained particular popularity, moreover, the main demand was from European buyers - up to 80% of sales in 2018. The second ‘1’ was already presented only in the body of a 3 and 5-door hatchback, and its two-door modifications were attributed to the BMW 2 Series. The second BMW 1 Series received a stylish design, as well as turbocharged engines.
The third generation of the BMW 1 Series has changed dramatically compared to the second, it has moved to a new front-wheel drive platform with a transverse engine.
The car began to look more aggressive after restyling in 2015 due to new headlights, bumpers, and body kit. The dashboard and center console have been updated inside. As a result of the 2017 update, the 1 Series received new exterior, interior, and technical changes. The instrument cluster has been updated in the cabin, the design of the front panel and the center console has changed, which has acquired a curtain that covers the cup holders. Also, new materials and colors have been used in the interior.
Third generation
The third generation BMW 1 Series, introduced in 2019, is now available in the Israeli market in the 5-door hatchback body. The third generation of the BMW 1 Series has changed dramatically compared to the second, it has moved to a new front-wheel drive platform with a transverse engine. The proportions, dimensions, and body design have been revised. Modern electronics and improved materials appeared in the interior. The 1st series hatchback has become a little more compact, at the same time, the width and height of the body, have increased, and the interior has become more spacious. The new ‘1’ has thrown off about 30 kg from its previous weight after the advent of the aluminum hood and tailgate.
Distinctive body lines, L-shaped LED lights and a distinctive large grille are the main elements of the striking appearance of the BMW 1 Series. The car interior is ergonomic and comfortable, and all interior details are finished with high quality materials.
