BMW 1 Series 2024 review
Photo: Charles from Port Chester, New York (CC BY 2.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The BMW 1 Series enters a new generation for 2024, and while the styling evolution is gentle, the changes underneath are meaningful. The fourth-generation car — codenamed F70 — keeps the front-wheel-drive layout introduced in 2019 but adds sharper looks, a thoroughly updated cabin with BMW's latest curved display, and a new range of efficient mild-hybrid petrol engines.
The volume seller will be the 120: a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol with 48V mild-hybrid assistance making 170PS, driving the front wheels through a 7-speed Steptronic dual-clutch automatic. It is a sweet powertrain — punchy from low revs, refined at speed and capable of over 46mpg officially. Keen drivers can look to the M135 xDrive halo model with 300PS and all-wheel drive, though its price climbs steeply.
Inside, the curved display pairing a 10.7-inch touchscreen with a 10.25-inch digital cluster gives the cabin a properly premium feel, and material quality is a match for the Audi A3. The 380-litre boot equals its German rivals, though rear legroom remains merely average. For British buyers wanting the blue-and-white roundel in a right-sized, efficient package, the new 1 Series makes a convincing case.
UK price from: £29,950
Specifications
| Engine | 1.5L 3-cylinder turbo petrol (mild hybrid) |
| Power | 170 PS (125 kW) |
| 0-60 mph | 7.8 seconds |
| Top speed | 140 mph |
| Fuel economy | 46.3 mpg (WLTP combined) |
| CO2 | 137 g/km |
| Boot space | 380 litres |
| Length | 4,361 mm |
| Transmission | 7-speed Steptronic dual-clutch |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
Features
- BMW Curved Display with iDrive 9 and 10.7-inch touchscreen
- 1.5-litre turbo petrol mild-hybrid with 170PS (120 model)
- 7-speed Steptronic dual-clutch automatic transmission
- LED headlights with cornering light function
- Heated front sports seats
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Rear-view camera with front and rear parking sensors
- Adaptive M suspension (M Sport models)
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads (set) | £64.99 | OEM quality; fits F70 120 models, front axle |
| Oil filter | £13.49 | For B38 1.5 turbo petrol engines |
| Cabin pollen filter | £19.99 | Activated carbon type; replace every 2 years |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £28.99 | Flat blades, 600mm/475mm |
| 12V battery | £149.99 | AGM 80Ah; must be registered to the car on fitting |
| Alloy wheel 18in (single) | £269.99 | M double-spoke design |
Pros
- Punchy and refined mild-hybrid powertrain
- Sharp handling for a front-wheel-drive hatch
- High-tech, driver-focused cabin design
- Competitive running costs for the premium class
Cons
- Styling changes little from the previous car
- Rear cabin space is no better than rivals
- Many desirable driver aids cost extra
- M135 xDrive flagship price climbs steeply
