The BMW 1 Series continues to deliver everything we love about the brand.
BMW 1 Series Overview
Spacious and comfortable enough to handle the daily drives of family life, sporty enough to make you feel good whilst doing them. The 4th generation BMW 1 Series has a sharper profile than its predecessor.
It’s got a strong road presence whilst staying compact enough to handle city streets with ease. This is a car that feels just as happy cruising through the countryside as it does parked outside your favourite brunch spot.
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BMW 1 Series Trim Levels at a Glance
Trim Level | Key Highlights | Ideal For |
SE | 16” alloy wheels, LED headlights, cloth seats, BMW Live Cockpit with touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, parking sensors | Drivers who want a premium entry into the BMW range that's comfortable and practical. |
Upgraded 17” alloys, gloss black styling accents, ambient lighting, sport seats with contrast stitching, selectable driving modes | Those who enjoy a touch of style and a slightly more dynamic look and feel. | |
18” alloys, M Sport suspension, M aerodynamic body kit, Alcantara sport seats, aluminum interior trim, digital cockpit | Enthusiasts who want sportier handling, sharper looks, and a more engaging drive. | |
2.0L turbo engine (306hp), all-wheel drive, M performance brakes, sport exhaust, 19” alloys, premium interior finishes | Drivers seeking hot-hatch performance with luxury touches. |
BMW 1 Series Exterior
At first glance, the 1 Series impresses with its sharp and confident stance, something you’d expect from BMW. Its attractive diagonal styling on the front gives it a sporty and energetic character - it looks ready to move even when it’s standing still.
The proportions are just right; wider, a touch longer, and that little bit bolder than before. It feels premium and that new kidney-style grille is unmistakingly BMW. Opt for a striking colour, like the Metallic Twilight Purple shown here, and you’re sure to be turning heads.
BMW 1 Series Interior
Inside, BMW has really focused on comfort and quality. The first thing you notice is the perfect hugging seat supportive yet soft, keeping you snug whether it’s a quick school run or a long weekend trip.
The materials feel truly high-end, with no hard plastics in sight. Instead, there’s a soft-touch dashboard, beautiful stitching, and subtle ambient lighting that gives the cabin a modern glow.
The layout is simple and driver-focused. Everything you need is intuitively placed in the central control area, making it easy to use without distraction. The infotainment system is HD, touch-responsive, and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - ideal for streaming music, taking calls, or navigating on the go.
Optional extras like the Harman Kardon sound system, a glass sunroof, and customisable seat colors with contrast stitching let you add your own personal flair.
BMW 1 Series Space
For a compact premium hatchback, the BMW 1 Series is impressively practical.
There are big door bins large enough for bottles and plenty of clever storage spaces throughout. The boot offers around 300 litres of space, which is more than enough for a family weekend away or the weekly supermarket run. With the back seats down, you get a flat load space, perfect for larger items.
In the back, there’s generous headroom and legroom. Three adults can fit comfortably across the rear seats - it’s a bit cosy, but perfectly fine for short trips. Families will appreciate how easy it is to get child seats in and out, and how airy the cabin feels.
Behind the Wheel
This is where the BMW 1 Series really shines. The mild hybrid setup gives an instant response when you put your foot down, no lag to be found. Different driving modes allow you to choose between efficiency and excitement; switch to Sport mode, and the turbo really comes alive.
The grip is great on winding country roads - it feels planted, agile, and genuinely fun. Yet it remains quiet on the motorway, with great visibility out of the rear window.
When maneuvering in tight spots, the 360-degree reversing camera is there to help.
It’s the kind of car that makes every journey, whether it’s the school run or a weekend escape, something to look forward to.
Vertu’s Verdict
The BMW 1 Series is the perfect balance of premium feel, practicality, and driving pleasure. It’s ideal for families who want something compact yet spacious, comfortable yet sporty.
If you’re after a car that delivers style, comfort, and a bit of excitement behind the wheel, the 1 Series is a brilliant choice.
- BMW