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BMW: BMW 1
Series 2005
BMW is poised
to shake up the compact executive segment with the arrival
of the new 1 Series. Featuring four engines, three gearboxes
and rear wheel drive, a combination not found in any of
its competitors, the BMW 1 Series makes its entrance in
Autumn 2004 and will immediately offer a new benchmark to
driving dynamics in its class.
A 1.6-litre
petrol engine producing 150Nm of torque at 4,300rpm powers
the entry-level BMW 116i. The 115bhp unit achieves a zero
to 62mph time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 125mph.
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Even with this high level
of performance, the 116i achieves an economical fuel consumption of
37.7mpg.
The high-performance four-cylinder
petrol model is the BMW 120i with its 150bhp and 200Nm (at 3,600rpm)
2.0-litre VALVETRONIC petrol engine. Light and nimble, the 120i covers
zero to 62mph in 8.7 seconds before going on to achieve a maximum speed
of 135mph.
The BMW 1 Series launch
line-up is completed with two versions of the powerful yet frugal 2.0-litre
common rail diesel engine. The 122bhp BMW 118d averages 50.4mpg while
posting a zero to 62mph time of 10 seconds and reaching a top speed
of 125mph.
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The higher-performance
163bhp BMW 120d achieves 49.6mpg yet is capable of a 7.9 second
zero to 62mph time and a 137mph top speed. Instant turbo power
delivered smoothly to the red line results in the 120d posting
sharper performance figures than its 2.0-litre petrol equivalent.
In-gear overtaking
in both diesel models should prove rapid thanks to a maximum
torque of 280Nm and 340 Nm respectively, much of this urge available
from a low 2,000rpm. Both diesel-engined derivatives and the
two petrol units are EU4 emission compliant.
Power is delivered
to the road via a six-speed manual in 118d, 120d and 120i models,
while the 116i has a five-speed manual gearbox. An optional
six-speed automatic will also be offered on 120i and 120d models.
Although a new car in a
new premium segment, the 1 Series has the traditional BMW design trademarks
- the front kidney grille, double headlamps and 'Hofmeister kink' on
the C-pillar all feature. These punctuate a genuinely head-turning styling
that ensures the new 1 Series will stand out amongst its competitors.
After slipping behind the
wheel and firing up the engine via a starter button, the driver will
go on to enjoy BMW's renowned 50:50 weight distribution and front engine,
rear wheel drive set-up - unique in this class. Coupled with a technically
elaborate aluminium front axle and five-link rear suspension, this ensures
optimum handling and traction, and the most invigorating drive in the
compact executive segment. A drag coefficient of just 0.29 helps the
new BMW 1 Series slip through the air with maximum efficiency and the
minimum of noise. Standard fit 16-inch run-flat tyres also means the
days of motorway hard shoulder tyre changes are over.
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Measuring just 4.23 metres
long, but with a relatively long wheelbase of 2.66 metres, driving dynamics
have been cleverly worked into a practical four-seater. The new 1 Series
offers ample shoulder and legroom for rear passengers and, thanks to
split fold rear seats that fold virtually flat, a similarly generous
luggage capacity of between 330 to 1150 litres of storage space.
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Dynamic Stability Control,
Dynamic Traction Control, Dynamic Brake Control and Electronic Differential
Lock help ensure the 1 Series provides the highest standards of active
safety without impacting unnecessarily on driving enjoyment. An airbag
system that includes head airbags for all occupants means the new BMW
1 Series also meets the most stringent passive safety requirements.
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The high level of standard
safety features combined with structural integrity means that the new
1 Series is clearly aiming for five stars in the EuroNCAP crash test.
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Meanwhile, optional extras
include Bluetooth capability, sports seats with backrest width adjustment,
acoustic Park Distance Control at the front and the rear and Bi-Xenon
headlights. The pioneering iDrive controller when mated to a navigation
system is also an option. Keyless access and voice-activated radio and
navigation systems will appear after launch.
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Prices for the all-new
1-Series will be announced later in the Spring.
03/23/2004
Photos: BMW AG
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