Win a 4-night stay for 2 people at the InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping in Thailand
Home / Drive, Sail & Fly

The All-New BMW 1 Series: Dynamic and Driver Focused

The new BMW 1 Series benefits from increased body rigidity and advanced chassis technology, including optimised kinematics and new shock absorber technology.

By Lisa Curtiss   |  

In its fourth generation, the BMW 1 Series emerges with a dynamic new design, advanced chassis technology, and enhanced standard equipment. Featuring highly efficient engines with 48-volt mild hybrid technology in the 120 model, the new BMW 1 Series promises both performance and sustainability. Equipped with the BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9, the driving experience is elevated with advanced automated driving and parking systems. Starting at £29,950, this new model is now available for order in the UK, with deliveries commencing in October 2024.

A pioneer in premium compact driving

The BMW 1 Series has been a trailblazer in the premium compact segment, offering unmatched driving pleasure. The new generation continues this legacy with a completely revised drive portfolio and enhanced chassis technology, making it the sportiest vehicle in its class. Sustainability is a key focus, with efficient engines and a resource-conserving production process. The interior redesign, featuring the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect, extends the range of automated driving and parking systems, reflecting the model’s progressive character.

All-New BMW 1 Series exterior
The new BMW 1 Series boasts a sporty appearance with hallmark BMW proportions

Striking exterior design

The new BMW 1 Series boasts a sporty appearance with hallmark BMW proportions; a long bonnet, a dynamically flowing roofline, and a powerful rear design. The exterior length has increased slightly to 4,361 millimetres, with a wheelbase of 2,670 millimetres. The vehicle width is 1,800 millimetres, and the height has increased to 1,459 millimetres.

The flat front end and wide BMW radiator grille with vertical and diagonal bars signal the sporty character of the new model. Standard LED headlights with striking vertical elements for daytime running lights and turn indicators enhance the dynamic look. Optional adaptive LED headlights with matrix high beam and cornering light function are also available.

The side view features a dynamic wedge shape and flat window graphics tapering towards the rear. The high-gloss Shadow Line includes a graphic element with the number 1 in the Hofmeister kink on the C-pillar. A long roof spoiler, side air deflectors, and a black diffuser-style insert add to the powerful rear appearance. The body paintwork is available in two solid finishes, seven metallic finishes, and various BMW Individual special paint finishes. The optional contrasting roof paint finish in high-gloss black further enhances the sporty look.

M Sport and M135 xDrive models

The new BMW 1 Series offers a more dynamic appearance with the M Sport model, featuring large air intakes, pronounced side skirts, and a three-dimensional diffuser element in the rear apron. The top-of-the-line BMW M135 xDrive model, with a 300 hp four-cylinder engine, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds. It includes an Adaptive M Chassis, sport steering, and intelligent all-wheel drive as standard. The M135 xDrive is distinguished by its M radiator grille, M exterior mirror caps, and four exhaust tailpipes. Exclusive to this model, the M Technology Package includes specific suspension components, an M Compound brake system, and 19-inch forged light-alloy wheels.

All-New BMW 1 Series on road
The new BMW 120 model features a three-cylinder petrol engine with a maximum power output of 170 hp, accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in 7.8 seconds

Luxurious interior

The interior of the new BMW 1 Series offers a premium, sporty ambience with generous space for up to five occupants. The newly designed Sport seats, available in a recycled polyester version called Econeer, provide comfort for long journeys. Standard heated seats, optional lumbar support, and a massage function enhance comfort. The driver and front passenger interaction airbag is standard, and the rear seat backrests can fold down to increase storage space from 380 litres to 1,200 litres.

High-quality surfaces, a redesigned gear selector, and the BMW Curved Display underline the premium feel inside the vehicle. The fully digital display system includes a 10.25-inch Information Display and a 10.7-inch Control Display, with digital air conditioning controls. The standard sport steering wheel can be upgraded to an M leather steering wheel with shift paddles.

Advanced engines and transmission

The new BMW 120 model features a three-cylinder petrol engine with a maximum power output of 170 hp, accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in 7.8 seconds. Both the 120 and M135 xDrive models are equipped with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with dual clutch as standard.

Enhanced chassis and driving dynamics

The new BMW 1 Series benefits from increased body rigidity and advanced chassis technology, including optimised kinematics and new shock absorber technology. The front wheels’ caster has been increased by 20 per cent, ensuring stable directional stability and optimised steering feedback. The standard 17-inch light-alloy wheels can be upgraded to 19-inch wheels, and the M sport brake system is available as an option.

All-New BMW 1 Series rear view
The new BMW 1 Series benefits from increased body rigidity and advanced chassis technology, including optimised kinematics and new shock absorber technology.

Cutting-edge driving and parking systems

Standard features include the Driving Assistant with front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Traffic Sign Recognition. The Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant is also standard. Optional features include Steering and Lane Control Assist, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, and route guidance with Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go function. The Parking Assistant Professional allows for parking and manoeuvring control via smartphone.

Expanded equipment and customisation

The new BMW 1 Series includes a significantly expanded range of standard equipment, such as automatic air conditioning, an alarm system, LED headlights, heated front seats, and BMW Live Cockpit Plus with cloud-based navigation. The Tech Plus Package includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional, BMW Head-Up Display, and Parking Assistant Plus. Optional equipment includes 2-zone automatic air conditioning, a panoramic glass roof, and the Harman Kardon sound system, standard on the BMW M135 xDrive.

BMW Operating System 9 and Digital Premium

The new BMW 1 Series features the latest BMW iDrive with QuickSelect, designed for intuitive operation. Based on BMW Operating System 9, it offers a highly individual selection of digital services. Remote software upgrades enable new functions to be integrated over-the-air. The BMW Digital Premium subscription includes a wide range of apps, including music and video streaming, and extends the BMW Maps navigation system’s functions.

Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, and the BMW Digital Key Plus allows for keyless entry and start via compatible smartphones and the Apple Watch.

The all-new BMW 1 Series represents a significant step forward in luxury, performance, and technology, reaffirming its position as a leader in the premium compact segment.

For more information, visit: bmw.co.uk/en/index.html