BMW 1-series review - more engaging than the competition - Interior and Tech
A wonderfully rear-drive premium compact hatchback
Interior and Tech
Along with the 2-series coupe and cabriolet, the 2018 model year 1-series has undergone an interior upgrade consisting of new trim options, blackout dials and the latest i-drive infotainment system. The dashboard itself has also been subtly reshaped.
One of the major bugbears of the rear-drive layout is that fact that it has resulted in a high transmission tunnel and a rear-set cabin, both of which conspire to make the life of the passenger in the back of the 1 Series a little bit uncomfortable. It's fine for short journeys, but knee room in particular is at a premium and please don't ask anyone to sit in the middle of the rear seat. The seat back can optionally be ordered as a split-fold design, increasing the barely average 360-litre boot up to 1200 litres of volume when there are no rear passengers.
All versions of the 1 Series are fitted with a classy high-resolution 6.5-inch screen atop the dashboard and the latest generation of BMW's iDrive rotary controller close to hand on the centre console. The BMW Radio Professional system is standard, with CD player, DAB digital radio, an aux-in socket and Bluetooth.
Tech geeks should check out the £900 'Media package - BMW Professional' as it has a more enhanced navigation system and much more besides, including online services. There's also a high-end Harmon Kardon hi-fi system to tempt audiophiles.
