Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW 1-series review - more engaging than the competition - Design

A wonderfully rear-drive premium compact hatchback

Evo rating
RRP
from £21,840
  • Adjustable rear-drive chassis, massive range of efficient and powerful engines
  • Rear space not great and most desirable models are costly

Design

The BMW 1 Series came in for its mid-life update in March 2015, bringing with it a much less divisive appearance - notably so at the front, where the 'pointy' headlights were replaced by far more attractive items, complemented by shapelier bumpers and a more pronounced 'kidney grille' up front. The rear lights were also overhauled, using LED bar technology to considerably widen the appearance of the rear of the 1 Series. It's more distinctive from that angle now, yet overall less opinion-dividing.

On the inside, while the cabin is short on space, it's one of the highest quality interiors in the segment, marrying elements of the most luxurious BMW models with more youthful detailing and plenty of technology. The high definition screen and clear instruments set the tone and every switch, button and knob is perfectly damped and a joy to use.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Best electric cars – these EVs deserve the attention of car enthusiasts
Best electric cars
Best cars

Best electric cars – these EVs deserve the attention of car enthusiasts

There's a huge variety of electric cars on sale in 2026, and we've picked the best of the breed for those looking for performance
3 Sep 2026
Hyundai i30 N (2017 - 2024) review – the bargain Civic Type R rival
Hyundai i30 N
In-depth reviews

Hyundai i30 N (2017 - 2024) review – the bargain Civic Type R rival

Hyundai knocked it out of the park at the first time of asking with the i30 N. It’s not perfect, it’s one of the most rounded and rewarding hot hatche…
4 Sep 2026
Bristol Fighter review – Britain’s troubled 210mph answer to the Ferrari 599
Bristol Fighter
Reviews

Bristol Fighter review – Britain’s troubled 210mph answer to the Ferrari 599

The 200mph British supercar with gullwing doors and an 8-litre V10 was conceived to challenge accepted supercar norms, and now it's made an unexpected…
2 Sep 2026