A new generation of the BMW 1 Series hatchback has been introduced in Israel in two versions: the base mild hybrid BMW 120 and the flagship BMW M135.
The fourth generation of the BMW 1 Series feels more like a facelift: the exterior and interior have been updated, manual transmissions have been discontinued, the engines have been upgraded, but the platform remains the same. At the end of November, the new 1 Series arrived in Israel, offered in two versions: the base mild hybrid BMW 120 and the top-tier M135 with 300 horsepower.
In Israel, the new BMW 120 in the base PURE trim is priced at 249,900 shekels, while the flagship BMW M135 xDrive M-Sport Pro costs 439,900 shekels (all prices listed are excluding taxes and fees as of December 2024).
Background: The third generation of the BMW 1 Series, designated with the factory index F40, debuted in 2019. It marked the first time the compact hatchback adopted front-wheel drive, along with revised proportions, dimensions, and body design, as well as a more spacious interior—essentially a fully revamped generation. The fourth generation, indexed F70, was unveiled in June 2024, and while it boasts significant updates, it is more akin to an extensive facelift.
Design Update
The exterior changes in the new generation BMW 1 Series are typical of a facelift: new bumpers and headlights, a redesigned grille without prominent "kidney" nostrils, and a slightly lowered hood line. Exposed exhaust tips are now exclusive to the high-performance M model. Two-tone body paint options have been introduced, with the roof in black. All lighting is LED as standard, and wheels come in 17, 18, or 19-inch sizes depending on the version.
The fourth-generation BMW 1 Series continues to use the front-wheel-drive platform but features a stiffer body, re-tuned suspension, new dampers, and a 20% increase in the front wheel camber angle. The hatchback has grown by 42 mm in length, now measuring 4,361 mm, while width remains unchanged at 1,800 mm, and height slightly increased to 1,459 mm. The wheelbase stays the same at 2,670 mm. Trunk volume ranges from 380 to 1,200 liters (300 to 1,135 liters for the 120 models).
Interior Overhaul
The interior has seen more significant changes. The new iDrive 9 system features a unified dashboard comprising a 10.25-inch instrument display and a 10.7-inch media screen. The number of physical buttons has been reduced, with some functions now controlled via the central display. The center console has been redesigned to include a minimalist gear selector and wireless charging.
The cabin appears more modern, with improved trim materials (although natural leather has been replaced with imitation, and fabrics are made from recycled plastic). The multimedia system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and operates on a next-generation OS. The Connected Drive package includes remote control capabilities, a digital key, a personal cloud profile, and an app store.
Engines and Versions
In Israel, the new 2025 BMW 1 Series is available in two versions, both equipped with a 7-speed Steptronic dual-clutch automatic transmission:
- Base BMW 120: Powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine (156 hp) combined with a 48-volt starter-generator (20 hp). The system delivers a peak output of 170 hp, accelerating the hatchback from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds, with a top speed of 120 km/h. Average fuel consumption is 16.7 km per liter.
- Top-tier all-wheel-drive BMW M135 xDrive: A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque. This hot hatch reaches 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. Compared to its predecessor, the top version is slightly less powerful and slower. However, it features adaptive suspension with an 8 mm lower ride height and enhanced brakes. Average fuel consumption is 12.0 km per liter.
Trims and Prices
In Israel, the base BMW 120 is offered in three trims (PURE, ESSENCE, and M-Sport), while the flagship BMW M135 xDrive is available in the M-Sport Pro version.
- PURE Standard features include fabric upholstery, tinted windows, climate control with rear air vents, a smart key, ambient lighting, an auto-dimming driver’s interior and side mirror, light and rain sensors, Parking Assistant with a memory of the last 50 meters driven, parking sensors, an autopark system, autonomous braking when reversing, and 17-inch wheels. Price: starting at 249,900 shekels
- ESSENCE Adds eco-leather upholstery, front sports seats with electric adjustment and memory for the driver’s seat, and 18-inch wheels. Price: starting at 269,900 shekels
- M-Sport Includes sporty exterior and interior design, adaptive suspension, leather and Alcantara upholstery, an M-Sport steering wheel, an electric sunroof, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and unique 18-inch wheels.. Price: starting at 289,900 shekels
- Top-tier BMW M135 xDrive M-Sport Pro: Features M-Sport front seats, extended electric adjustments with side and lumbar support, Shadow Line darkened trim package, M-Sport brakes with 4-piston front calipers, M-Sport exhaust system, and 19-inch wheels. Price: starting at 439,900 shekels
