The new 1 Series is a worthy addition to the premium compact model segment.

BMW have, without a doubt, produced an abundance of unforgettable motor vehicles over the years and we at FACT magazine have had the privilege of test driving several models in the past. This month, compliments of the great team at Euro Motors, we once again found ourselves behind the wheel of a new Bimmer, this time in the form of the freshly released BMW 120i M.

What we noticed first about the 120i was the signature BMW kidney grille. Having been increased in size, it now has a far greater presence with the two kidneys merging in the middle for the very first time. This new design replaces the grille’s classical bars with a prominent three-dimensional mesh design, giving the vehicle a contemporary feel. The BMW 1 Series’ redefined athletic appearance ensures the flanks are not only prominent, but that they clearly define the BMW shark nose. This feature is emphasised by the crisp and precise lines that run from front to rear of the immaculate exterior. The headlights too have been redesigned and now exude a fresh and youthful feel.

Once inside the 1 Series, we were surprised by the amount of room on offer. This BMW is high enough to ensure slipping into the vehicle is not a task and the seats that welcome you are both comfortable and supportive. The knee room for rear passengers has been increased by 33 millimetres, the headroom by 19 millimetres and the elbow room by 12 millimetres, ensuring a more pleasant travelling environment. In the front, the two occupants enjoy an extra 42 millimetres of elbow room space, an improvement that is definitely noticeable. Throughout the interior, all the materials, trimmings and finishes are of a premium quality and the layout of the cockpit is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. In fact, all of the internal elements of this vehicle are well designed and functional, including the easy to navigate infotainment and sound systems.

A great feature of the 120i is the spacious luggage compartment. Despite the 1 Series being a compact model, it can carry a decent amount of cargo. We managed to place two large luggage bags and two smaller hand luggage bags inside the boot without too much trouble.

As the flagship model of the 1 Series, the BMW 120i M Sport Package is equipped with a four-cylinder petrol unit powered by BMW TwinPower Turbo technology that generates an output of 140 kW/190hp. This, coupled with an eight-speed steptronic transmission, allows this model to accelerate from 0 – 100km/h in an impressive 7.0 seconds and to produce a top speed of 230km/h.

This vehicle also boasts a cutting-edge chassis system along with innovative technologies. These combined with all key driving dynamics components and control system, imbue the 1 Series with an increase in agility and improved overall drivability. As we made our way along the roads, we enjoyed the silence of the ride, watching the kilometres roll by, always feeling in complete control of the experience. With an array of safety and driver assist features, you can rest assured that the master craftsmen at BMW have created a motor vehicle with the wellbeing of you and your loved ones as their utmost priority.

All-in-all we found the all-new 1 Series to be an impressive new offering from BMW. With its modern look, comfortable interior and ample performance capabilities, we can only encourage you to take it for a spin. ✤

CONTACT EURO MOTORS ON 1775 0750 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR VERY OWN.

Throughout the interior, all of the materials, trimmings and finishes are of a premium quality and the layout of the cockpit is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

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