BMW lifts the bar with 1 Series

BMW 1-Series. Photo / Supplied

The new BMW 1-Series will come with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard when it goes on sale in New Zealand next month. The eight-speeder will come with a stop/start function, a mild hybrid component that is part of the carmaker's EfficientDynamics technology. It shuts down the engine during stops and restarts it when the brake is released.

The 1-Series range builds on the success of its predecessors but gets engines with more power and efficiency, as well as improved standard and optional features.

It is 85mm longer then the outgoing model, carries a 30mm longer wheelbase for improved rear-seat comfort and offers 10 per cent more luggage capacity (360 litres).

The introductory model uses a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine delivering 100kW, the same power as the previous entry-model 118i. Claimed fuel economy is 5.7 litres/100km, 24 per cent less than the 118i.

The new-generation turbo accelerates the 116i from zero to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, compared with 9.4 seconds for the 118i. Torque is also up from 180Nm to 220Nm, while CO2 exhaust emissions are down from 174g/km to 132g/km.

The 116i is priced between $46,600 and $49,700 and gets a new package of standard features, including Driving Experience Control, which adjusts the car's set-up to suit the driver's personal preferences.

All models offer a choice of three modes: Comfort, Sport and Eco Pro,which optimises fuel consumption.

BMW Group NZ managing director Mark Gilbert said the new 1-Series will attract customers who may not have previously considered a BMW.

"The 1-Series is widely recognised as the category benchmark in driving dynamics, and in terms of value it is now more competitive than ever before," he said.

"The car's dimensions have increased and its position as the most refined and dynamic vehicle in its class has been underlined."

Three four-cylinder engines will be available from launch: the boosted petrol 116i and 125kW/250Nm 118i units ($55,500), and the 105kW/320Nm diesel-powered 118d ($56,600). BMW claims the diesel delivers fuel consumption of 4.5 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of 118g/km.

The petrol engines are so-called new-generation powerplants, combining a high power output with lower fuel consumption and emissions. Technically, they are based on the TwinPower straight-six, an "engine of the year" category winner in 2009, 2010 and 2011, notable for its twin-scroll turbocharging system.

The 1-Series also introduces BMW Lines, an optional $2000 method of tailoring the car. "We have listened to our customers and their desire to personalise their cars, and the introduction of BMW Lines now means the level of individualisation has been significantly raised," Gilbert said.