BMW 1 Series range updated
16.01.2012 - Daljinder Nagra
(1)
The BMW 1-Series range has been updated with a trio of new engines and a top-spec M Sport trim level.
New to the diesel line-up is the 116d EfficientDynamics. With a 1.6-litre engine coupled to BMW's range of fuel saving measures, including low rolling resistance tyres and tweaked aerodynamics, it emits just 99g/km of CO2, meaning zero road tax for the first time in a 1-Series.
It also returns fuel economy of 74.3mpg on the combined cycle; impressive when considered alongside the 116d ED's relatively high power output of 116bhp and 0-62mph performance time of 10.5 seconds.
At the other end of the scale, two new performance engines have been introduced: the 125i and 125d.
The petrol powered 125i features BMW's unique TwinPower Turbo technology, to extract a peak power figure of 218bhp from its 2-litre engine. This is enough to get the car from 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds (6.5 if equipped with the optional 8-speed automatic transmission).
Despite the performance on offer, the 125i sips fuel at a rate of 42.8mpg, and will cost £130 per year to tax, thanks to CO2 emissions of 149g/km.
The new 125d is arguably even more impressive. Replacing the now defunct 123d as the diesel range-topper, the 2-litre unit nearly matches the petrol model for performance, reaching 62mph from a standstill in a scarcely credible 6.5 seconds. It also yields a distinct economy advantage, managing 57.7mpg, whilst CO2 emissions of 126g/km means road tax of £95 per year, with the first year free.
A new M Sport trim level is aimed at anyone looking for a more involved drive. The suspension has been reconfigured, lowered by 10mm and features stiffer springs and dampers.
Further additions in M Sport trim include uprated brakes on all but the most powerful models, and BMW M design alloy wheels, available in 17 and 18-inch guises.
Finally, BMW's famous Estoril Blue paint colour is now available as an option solely on 1-Series M Sport models.
The new 1-Series range starts at £22,510 for the 116i. All are available to order now, with the first customer cars being delivered in March.
