BMW 1-series – engine, gearbox and technical highlights
Three- and four-cylinder engines paired with a dual clutch transmission make up the range, with no manual option available
While there are a multitude of trim levels and powertrain options available for most of its rivals, BMW has simplified the 1-series range significantly in this new generation. For 2025, there are only three distinct models available, with just two petrol powertrains between them. There is no diesel 1-series in the current lineup.
At the bottom of the range is the £31,065 120 Sport, pairing a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid three-cylinder with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission as standard (the 1-series is now entirely without a manual option). Output from the combustion engine is modest at 154bhp and 177lb ft of torque, but that 48V mild-hybrid boost helps bring total output to 168bhp and 207lb of torque, considerably more than the entry-level Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-class at 114bhp and 148bhp respectively. The 120 M Sport is mechanically identical.
Moving up the range you’ll find the 123 xDrive, going pure-combustion with a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and sending 215bhp and 266lb ft of torque to all four wheels. On paper this is the same powertrain you’ll find in the M135 range-topper, only without its higher 296bhp, 295lb ft of torque figures (which actually happen to be marginally lower than the F40 M135i it replaces).
