MPG and running costs
Although BMW trades on its sporty image, it has also managed to carve out an enviable niche for itself by being early to the market with a range of economy-promoting measures it refers to as EfficientDynamics. Others have caught up since, but the 1 Series is still remarkably efficient in all guises. The star from a Green Party pleasing point of view is the 116d SE, as it returns a commendable 78.5mpg on the combined cycle and has an emissions rating of just 94g/km (96g/km with the auto').
That should make it a superstar among junior managers that might not have otherwise afforded a new BMW on the company scheme. However, all of the diesels are remarkably efficient. The thirstiest is the 125d, returning a still brilliant 61.4mpg with emissions as low as 121g/km.
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Naturally, the petrol variants are less economical, but even the M140i comes with an official combined economy figure of 36.2mpg in manual form or 39.8mpg as an auto, while the entry-level petrol car, the unassuming 118i, returns over 50mpg. Buyers really should think long and hard about whether they truly need a diesel version.
When ordering a new 1 Series, it's possible to avail of BMW's good-value inclusive servicing packages, which start from £299 for three years or 36,000 miles.
