After much anticipation, the new BMW 1 Series has officially arrived in South Africa, now available at showrooms nationwide. This sleek hatchback makes its debut alongside its sedan counterpart, the 2 Series Gran Coupe, and is offered in three trim levels to cater to a range of preferences.
Model Line-Up and Pricing
The new BMW 1 Series range starts at R713,395 and includes the following models:
- BMW 118 – R713,395
- BMW 118 M Sport – R753,395
- BMW M135 xDrive – R982,767
Each model includes a 2-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100,000km maintenance plan.
Engine Options and Performance
Buyers have two engine options, depending on the variant selected:
- BMW 118: This entry-level model features a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 115kW and 230Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 226km/h. Fuel consumption is a modest 6.4l/100km.
- BMW M135 xDrive: The performance-focused version comes with a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing 233kW and 400Nm. It rockets from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds, with a top speed capped at 250km/h. Fuel usage increases to 7.8l/100km.
Both engines are matched to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The 118 drives the front wheels exclusively, while the M135 benefits from BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, the M135 features adaptive suspension as standard, which is optional on the 118 through the M Sport package.
Technology and Interior Features
The interior of the new BMW 1 Series boasts a fresh and modern layout. Standard features on the BMW 118 include:
- Automatic LED headlights with vertical daytime running lights
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Eco-friendly leather-free upholstery
- Sports multifunction steering wheel
A standout feature is the curved dual-screen setup, comprising a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch infotainment display. These run on BMW’s latest Operating System 9, offering:
- Voice control
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- BMW Maps with cloud-based navigation
- Over-the-air software updates
Additional comfort and convenience features include automatic climate control, tyre pressure monitoring, and the Parking Assist package.
M135 Exclusive Features
The M135 adds a host of premium features to enhance the driving experience:
- M Sport seats in Veganza leather/Alcantara with blue stitching
- Ambient lighting
- Head-up display
- Front-collision warning
- Lane-departure and exit warning
- Traffic sign recognition
- Parking and Reversing Assistant
Key Features Comparison Table
| Feature | BMW 118 | BMW 118 M Sport | BMW M135 xDrive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo Petrol (115kW/230Nm) | 1.5L Turbo Petrol (115kW/230Nm) | 2.0L Turbo Petrol (233kW/400Nm) |
| 0-100km/h | 8.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive (xDrive) |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch auto | 7-speed dual-clutch auto | 7-speed dual-clutch auto |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.4l/100km | 6.4l/100km | 7.8l/100km |
| Top Speed | 226km/h | 226km/h | 250km/h |
| Wheels | 17-inch alloy | 17-inch alloy (M Sport design) | Larger alloy wheels (M Sport design) |
| Upholstery | Leather-free | M Sport interior | Veganza leather/Alcantara with blue stitching |
| Infotainment | 10.7-inch touchscreen + 10.25-inch digital cluster | Same as 118 | Same as 118 |
| Operating System | BMW OS 9 with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Same as 118 | Same as 118 |
| Adaptive Suspension | Optional (with M Sport package) | Standard | Standard |
| Safety and Driver Aids | Parking Assist, TPMS, LED lights | Adds M Sport extras | Adds HUD, ambient lighting, collision warning, lane assist, traffic sign recognition, reversing assistant |
With its blend of sporty styling, advanced technology, and multiple engine choices, the new BMW 1 Series is well-positioned to appeal to both premium hatchback enthusiasts and everyday city drivers. Whether you opt for the refined 118 or the thrilling M135, BMW’s latest offering delivers on performance, luxury, and innovation.
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