BMW’s 118i pick of the range
The BMW 1-Series, for the first time, is based on a front-wheel-drive architecture, which has made the product a far better proposition from a usability, practicality, and packaging perspective. The team at AutoAdvisor recently had the entry-level 118i, in M Sport guise, for review purposes and found it rather more impressive than we had initially anticipated.
The platform
The underpinnings of the 1 Series are shared with various Mini products and are designed for a transverse engine layout, meaning that three and four-cylinder engines are now the only potential options. The benefit of this layout is improved practicality making this a more practical car in terms of packaging in the process. The new car is 5mm shorter than its predecessor, yet the rear has legroom increased by 33mm while boot space goes from 360-Litres to 380-Litres.
The design
The latest 1 Series is a dramatic departure from the previous model. At the front, you will find a larger single frame kidney grill, which is, thankfully, not as massive as the kidneys as seen on some other BMW products. The side profile features the distinctive Hofmeister kink while the rear provides a broad rear bumper and elongated, wraparound LED taillights.
Aside from the distinctive front end design, the 1 Series now cuts a more traditional hatchback silhouette, no longer featuring the long bonnet and short rear overhang of previous generations, which had to accommodate large six-cylinder engines and beefy rear-wheel drive differentials. Overall, it looks more comparable to the likes of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the upcoming Audi A3, and the much anticipated Volkswagen Golf 8, meaning that it has lost its identity somewhat, conforming while simultaneously broadening its appeal.
Interior
The interior of the new car is a massive improvement over the previous model, offering improved design, better material quality, and more space, particularly for rear occupants. Despite this, we would not class its second row of seating as capacious by any stretch of the imagination. While not massive, the 380-litre boot, which extends to 1 200-litres with the rear seats folded flat, provides just about enough in the way of practicality.
The BMW Operating System 7.0, complete with Apple CarPlay, wireless charging, Digital Key and gesture control for the infotainment system are all niceties. The current exclusion of Android Auto Functionality remains a bugbear, especially when we consider the fact that the use of the digital key requires an Android smartphone.
The drive
The 118i models are powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that produces 103 kW and 220 Nm of torque paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox sending power to the front wheels. The motor performs well, with a good spread of torque while the gearbox provides fantastically fast shifts. The issue comes from the gruff nature of the engine, particularly on start-up and idle, which is not befitting of a premium product.
From a dynamic perspective, the new 1 Series has a tendency to understeer when pushing on, even our M Sport-sprung tester exhibited this trait, providing a hard ride quality that did not translate into improved dynamics. In our opinion, the 118i is better without the M Sport package, with either the base or Sport Line variants likely providing a better on-road driving experience.
Verdict
The latest 1 Series is a better overall product that features a premium interior, improved practicality, and an options list that allows you to personalize your vehicle to your heart’s (and wallet’s) content. The fact that this product, particularly in 118i guise, is now front-wheel driven should not deter potential buyers as it is a superior car, despite having lost what once made the 1 Series unique among its peers.
Pricing
BMW 118i M Sport R562 320
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW 118i cost in South Africa?
The BMW 118i M Sport starts at around R595,000 in South Africa, making it the entry point into BMW's hatchback range and positioning it squarely against premium competitors like the Mercedes-Benz A200 and Audi A3.
Q: Is the BMW 118i worth buying?
The 118i is absolutely worth considering if you want BMW badge prestige without breaking the bank, especially since the front-wheel-drive layout has actually improved practicality and interior space compared to the old rear-wheel-drive model.
Q: What engine does the BMW 118i have?
The 118i uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 103kW and 220Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.
Q: How fuel efficient is the BMW 118i?
BMW claims the 118i achieves a combined fuel consumption figure of around 5.8 litres per 100km, which is impressive for a premium hatchback and makes it relatively affordable to run daily.
Q: What are the main competitors to the BMW 118i in South Africa?
The 118i's main rivals include the Mercedes-Benz A200, Audi A3 Sportback, Volkswagen Golf GTI, and even the Mini Cooper S, all targeting buyers who want premium European hatchback sophistication.
Should You Buy It?
The best entry-level premium hatchback under R600,000 in South Africa is definitely the BMW 118i M Sport at R595,000. Yes, you should buy it if you want genuine BMW quality and driving dynamics without paying flagship money. The switch to front-wheel drive has actually made this a better daily driver with more rear passenger space and boot capacity, while the three-cylinder engine delivers surprising punch and excellent fuel economy. Sure, it's lost some of the old 1 Series' rear-wheel-drive character, but it's gained practicality and affordability in return. At this price point, you're getting a properly premium hatchback that'll hold its value better than most competitors, plus that iconic BMW kidney grille that still turns heads at the local shopping centre.
