Sections: MF Feature Mar 24th, 2004 
As many of you know BMW will be releasing the 1 series later this year. In fact today BMW released the first official photos and info about the car. The 1 series will eventually be available in several configuration; a four door hatch, two door hatch, two door coupe and a convertible (the latter two to be named the 2 series). BMW designed the car to slot just above the MINI in both size and price with some key differences; the 1 series will be available only in wheel rear drive configurations and will offer a small inline six (among the many engine choices).
Expect the 1 series to be released late this fall just about everywhere… but the United States. For some reason BMW has determined it's biggest market won't be getting the initial 4 door/hatch configuration. In fact Jack Pitney (head of BMWUSA) recently spoke about the 1 series possibly not coming to the US at all due to marketing and economical concerns. For one BMW is worried that with the Euro/Dollar exchange being what it currently is the 1 series won't be able to be priced well enough below the US 3 series to justify it's existence here. How quickly BMW seems to forget the new small premium market they've just invented with the MINI.
Why would BMW not to bring the hatchback models to the US? It is assumed that this will be the biggest selling configurations around the world. Yet somehow BMW doesn't believe the US market sales can sustain the investment to bring them over. This fear would seem a bit misplaced considering how successful the MINI has been in the US. The MINI has gone against all rational thinking in terms of the US automotive market and been a huge success for BMW. MINI has proven that there is a growing small premium car market in the US - despite what had been assumed before hand. Now why would BMW decide to not push the envelope and release the full 1 series range here? Dilution of the brand? I'd say the X5 has done more to dilute the brand than a small sporty BMW hatch would. In fact the 1 series is closer to the soul of past BMWs than some of what's in showrooms now. Further with the 1 series BMW wouldn't have to create an entirely new brand and dealer network. Because of this costs could be substantially lower for dealers and BMWUSA than with the MINI's introduction in the US two years ago.
So why is all this related to the MINI? Well for one a four door MINI and a four door 1 series would surely compete against each other in the market. With the US not getting a four door 1 Series the case for a four door MINI could be stronger here. Further the 1 series is built on a version of the next 3 series platform. One would gather there's quite a bit of next MINI in the 1 series. For instance the current MINI shares it's electrical system with the current 3 series. And of course the Z-link rear suspension is also a design based off of the current 3 series. So what changes lie in store for the next MINI based on what we see today in the 1 series? Only time will tell.
You can see a gallery of the 1 series here. And for more information on the car here is BMW's official release concerning the new 1 series:
Sheer Driving pleasure now also to be found in the compact class:
(The BMW 1 Series 5-door hatchback model will not be offered in the US. The availability and introduction timing of future 1 Series variants in the US has not been determined.)
Munich. In the autumn of 2004 BMW will unveil for the very first time a compact class automobile - the BMW 1 Series with five doors and a length of 4.23 metres, making this new model series precisely 24 centimetres shorter than a 3 Series saloon. The typical BMW drive concept, powerful engines, high-grade equipment and the experience of sheer driving fun offer a new and unique alternative in this particular market segment.
Right from the very first glance there is no doubt that this new five-door sports-hatch is a BMW through and through: The long wheelbase with a short front overhang, the lower roof line with the typical C-pillar kink and the characteristic front end with the “kidney” grille and double headlamps give the 1 Series a face that stands out in a crowd. The practical hatch opens to reveal a variable luggage compartment that offers the driver and passengers 330 to 1150 litres of storage space for even larger items of sports equipment for a variety of leisure activities.
Unique agility and steering precision.
Whether loaded or not, the 1 Series is always sheer pleasure to drive: The seating position offering long-distance driving comfort and the exemplary, clearly structured cockpit provide the driver with perfect ergonomics during his “driving experience”. After starting the engine at the push of a button, one immediately senses that typical driving pleasure only a BMW can induce. Thanks to its agility and steering precision unique in the compact class, the BMW 1 Series not only ensures sporty but smooth handling of winding country roads, but also facilitates effortless urban driving pleasure. This is because - like all other BMW automobiles - the 1 Series has a front-mounted engine and rear wheel drive. Even in the tightest of bends there is no torque steer to be felt, the rear wheels having optimal traction when transferring the engine's power onto the tarmac.
Moreover, this concept offers an ideal balance of weight between the technically elaborate aluminium front axle and the five-link rear suspension. Together all of these characteristics facilitate further advantages such as optimal traction even when fully loaded and on hills. The drive and suspension concept is further enhanced by a particularly stiff body and excellent aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of just 0.29.
On the whole no other vehicle in the compact class offers such a distinctively harmonious symbiosis of sporty driving characteristics and suitability for long-distance travel as the BMW 1 Series.
Four engine variants from 115 to 163 bhp.
When the car is launched customers will have an immediate choice of four four-cylinder engines. The models 116i (85 kW / 115 bhp) und 120i (110 kW / 150 bhp) feature further developed and refined BMW petrol engines. The two diesel versions, the 118d (90 kW / 122 bhp) and the120d (120 kW / 163 bhp) are equipped with high-torque diesel engines. Needless to say, all BMW 1 Series cars meet with EU4 emission standards. A smooth-shifting manual six-speed gearbox (five-speed on the 116i) or, optionally, a comfortable six-speed automatic deliver power to large-size 16-inch wheels with emergency running properties, thereby contributing to the most dynamic performance available in this segment. Furthermore, the BMW 1 Series is one of the most economical in its class.
Active and passive safety at the highest level.
Robust, large disc brakes provide supreme stopping power in any situation. By means of two-stage brake light clusters the BMW 1 Series indicates to vehicles behind whether the brakes are being applied normally or hard. And the extensive range of standard safety equipment, which includes DSC Dynamic Stability Control, DBC Dynamic Brake Control, Electronic Differential Lock as well as a complete airbag system comprising head airbags for all seats, complies with the most stringent safety requirements. These safety features and an exemplary protective body structure are the best prerequisites for achieving five stars in the Euro NCAP crash test.
Equipment options normally associated with more luxurious classes.
In addition to the wide range of basic equipment, there are a myriad of possibilities to individualize the BMW 1 Series with optional equipment available in the usual high BMW quality. Many of these have previously only been seen in higher vehicle segments. These include: Convenient keyless access, Bluetooth mobile interface, sports seats with backrest width adjustment, acoustic PDC Park Distance Control at the front and the rear, Bi-Xenon headlights and a choice of high-performance audio and navigation systems, which can also be operated centrally or by voice control utilizing the BMW state-of-the-art iDrive operating concept.
With its unique concept, the BMW 1 Series is intended to target customers who have always appreciated the practical aspects of previously available compact vehicles but have, until now, searched in vain for an automobile that takes into consideration their increased demands in terms of driving pleasure and individuality. Whilst fully meeting these customer requirements, the BMW 1 Series offers in addition high-quality product substance wrapped up in a modern and attractive design.
Overview of specifications
116i 85 kW /115 bhp at 6000 rpm; 150 Nm at 4300 rpm; cubic capacity 1.6 litres; 0-62 in 10.8 s; top speed 200 km/h (124 mph); fuel consumption 7.5 ltr/100km
120i 110 kW / 150 bhp at 6200 rpm; 200 Nm at 3600 rpm; cubic capacity 2.0 litres; 0-62 in 8.7 s; top speed 217 km/h (135 mph); fuel consumption 7.4 ltr/100km
118d 90 kW / 122 bhp at 4000 rpm; 280 Nm at 2000 rpm; cubic capacity 2.0 litres 0-62 in 10.0 s; top speed 201 km/h (125 mph); fuel consumption 5.6 ltr/100km
120d 120 kW / 163 bhp at 4000 rpm; 340 Nm at 2000 rpm; cubic capacity 2.0 litres; 0-62 in 7.9 s; top speed 220 km/h (137mph); fuel consumption 5.7 ltr/100km
The BMW 1 Series made in Germany.
The BMW 1 Series is manufactured at the ultra-modern Regensburg plant, utilizing production facilities which provide some of the highest possible levels of flexibility and model diversity in the automotive industry, but which at the same time offer the best possible standard of present-day workplace ergonomics.
With the BMW 1 Series, the BMW Group is laying an important cornerstone for further profitable growth. Market researchers see the premium segment of the compact class as the market with large potential worldwide. Thanks to its unique vehicle concept, the BMW 1 Series will gain a disproportionately large share of the market and contribute to a further sharpening of the BMW brand profile.
Prices for the BMW 1 Series are shortly to be announced. The market launch is planned for the autumn of 2004. The BMW 1 Series will celebrate its auto show debut at the Paris Motor Show.
Wow… I liked the early look side views, but with these new shots, it just looks flawed. The front end does not work with the rest of the car, the rear doors look almost unusable, and the back end looks like something from yet another car.
I agree, Gabe, the rational behind non-marketing a 5-door Series 1 is flawed, particularly since BMW doesn't have close alternative in their line-up. I'm not really taken with the latest Bangle styling ideas, but this would be a mistake not to build on the potential market that MINI has so artfully spotlighted - the small premium car.
It's even more baffling when one considers how much other car manufacturers have become quite interested in this very segment. They all won't approach it the same way - some trading off the reflective glory of the MINI, while failing to make an equal or better car, (tough, I know) - but some will almost certainly bring to market very worthwhile competitors in this segment and the one the Series 1 is aimed at. It's amusing to see what an influence the MINI, a car that sells a mere 35,000 or so vehicles year, has on the perceptions of the big car companies, some of whose models sell five or six times or more volume. BMW shouldn't let such a good chance slip away.
BCNU,
Rob in Dago
Though I agree, that the BMW 1 Series should be brought over to the U.S. However, hatch backs didn't sell in the U.S. in the past. Just look at Saab, VW Golf, Subaru sport hatches, etc. For some reason, people in the U.S. have a (IMHO unreasonably) bad perception of hatch backs of being low-class and cheap.
MINI was sort of a different case. MINI's styling is what sets it apart from other hatch backs. If MINI's styling is more conventional, I don't think it would have sold as much as it did. By the same token, since BMW 1 Series is more conventional in its looks and styling, it is less likely to gain much popularity without some aggressive marketing campaign (read: more cost).
Very well said Rob. Also some good points Lucas. However I think the US market is slowly changing in it's perceptions of hatch backs and wagons. And the age group pushing this change - younger buyers. I really believe BMW would be on the cusp of something potentially huge with this car.
And as far as not looking quite right in some angles - normally I'd urge to wait until you see it in person before casting your final opinions. However we may not get that opportunity in the US so cast away!
Personally it's really grown on me (as most of BMW's latest designs). There's some real interesting things going on with the parallel lines and the concave surfaces.
Disappointing for sure.
I'm finding that in general I need more space, and going with a 3 seems too much. The 1 appears to be what I'd consider trading up to.
Don't get me wrong, I really like my MINI and the performance that it gives. (I just got updgraded to V36. What a surprise.) I'm also finding that aside from space, that I'd reallly like something with a softer ride. (I have an MCS.)
Maybe we'll get it?
I think those that are interested need to let BMW know now. Remember - they weren't sure if they were going to bring the MINI over to the US either. In fact if it wasn't for a couple dedicated BMWUSA employees and people writing in they wouldn't have done it.
gaaah, I see the iDrive, keep it away.
Like said earlier, closer scrutiny kills my perception. A cross between the X5 and a Golf.
I'll stay w/ my MINI.
The new iDrive (seen here) is leaps and bounds ahead of the first iteration. It's very much streamlined from the first 7 series iteration.
Having used it in the new 5 series I can say that it takes very little time to pick up and once you do it's a very powerful tool to have.
I wonder if the reverse perspective is what is needed here: Could BMW have decided that a fairly near competitor from their own line could damage the MINI's market share, at the very time when it is needing to consolidate after the big initial push? I could be wrong…
Is the 1.6L engine the same engine as in the MINI? Seems to have similar power output.
As the autoextremist says, BMW seems intent on getting a Bimmer in every driveway, so why not bring this car here? The 120d would be a worthy successor to the E30 325e and the 120i a nouveau E30 318is.
As far as diluting the brand cachet, 3-series BMWs are as common as Camrys in some neighborhoods…how 'dilute' is that?
RE: MINI not being brought to the states…
“He noted Mini sales in the U.S. have far surpassed the company's original projections of about 20,000 cars a year. Since the brand launched in the U.S., it has sold 68,191 cars, including sales tallied through midday Monday, said Mr. Pitney.”
if BMW brings a 5 door, with a 6 and a standard transmission, the 1 series could very well be my next car. style wise i like what's going on with the lines.
The 1.6L is not the same as what's in the MINI currently.
i should read more, only small 2l and under 4's? i hope they bring the diesel, it seems to be the engine of choice.
Here's an excerpt of the Automotive News article where BMWUSA CEO Tom Purvis discusses what may or may not happen with the 1 series:
From Automotive News
March 22, 2004
BMW AG may scrap plans to export its new 1-series small car to the United States.
Company executives had said a version of the 1 series, most likely a sedan, would come to America 18 to 24 months after the five-door hatchback is launched in Europe this summer. BMW officials say the plans have changed.
“I am not prepared to say what sort of car we will bring,” says Tom Purves, CEO of BMW North America.
He says the 1 series had been on track for sale in the United States, but “lots of things have changed.”
He says U.S. dealers haven't vetoed the plan, and that a four-door hasn't been approved for production. He said it may be up to BMW North America to make a case that the 1 series can sell in the United States.
Burkhard Goeschel, BMW's top product development executive in Germany, said, “Despite the success of our Mini, U.S. customers still have to get used to small models.”
Asked if the 1 series will come to the United States before 2007, Goeschel said: “This is not very likely. It has been a decision of BMW U.S.A. not to bring the 1 series to the U.S. for the near future.” He added: “If we go to the U.S., it will be with another body variant (than the hatchback).”
Backpedaling
A Europe-based consultant working with BMW says the company is “backpedaling” because of the strong euro and because other 1 series derivatives are being considered.
“BMW is toying with changing the name of one of the body styles - it could be called the 2 series,” the source said. “The U.S. may get a four-seat, two-door model with a trunk, but they would make it sleek and coupelike.”
Calling the coupe a 2 series would follow BMW's strategy of making even-numbered models either coupes or sportier versions of sedans. That would allow BMW to price a 2 series higher - a strategy used in positioning the new 6 series coupe and convertible above the 7 series sedan.
The 1 series is based on the 3 series, which debuts next year. The 2 series also would use 3 series components.
The 1 series hatchback, which will be built in Regensburg, Germany, is 166.5 inches long - 9.5 inches shorter than the 3 series sedan.
Currency an issue
A European stock analyst who had heard that BMW is reconsidering plans to sell the 1 series in the United States said: “The fact that there has been this wobble suggests there has been rethinking because the exchange rate has changed dramatically.”
The analyst, who spoke on condition that he not be named, added: “It raises the issue whether you can sell this vehicle profitably and if it helps you in terms of image and profitability.”
BMW has currency-hedging arrangements with banks that provide partial protection from a weak dollar. But those arrangements end after 2005, near the time the 1 series would enter the U.S. market.
“If the euro stays strong and climbs, then the 2006 horizon will get difficult,” the analyst said. “They'll have to increase prices, and that could put the viability of the 1 series program on hold.”
re: euro. i thought that might be a problem. that's part of why MINI prices have climbed since introduction. and why VW is having a hard time meeting projections. i fear for Lotus finally bringing a federalized elise durring a period of significant currency risk.
I'm with you, Matt, I think it's a great car at a great price. I am already excited about this car… that 6-speed 5-door WOULD BE my next car. Three-door? Not so much. Any information on who to contact about our discontent?
As the owner of both a MCS and a 325 wagon I would love to see the 1 series brought over in either hatchback or coupe version. I am concerned about the size and price direction the new 3 series will heading toward. The 1 series would seem to offer the promise of combining the best attributes of a MCS and 3 series: rear drive, 5 speed, sport package and 6 cylinder. I would think there would be big interest but I also think it would cannibalize MINI sales as well as 3 series sales, both new and used.
That car is awesome. I love the Z4 and that looks like a Z4 hatchback.
I think americans are starting to see the value in sporty hatches, take the new Mazda 3 5-door for example.
I absolutely love the new 1 Series and wish I could have a 120d parked in my garage.
Maybe not just yet, but I feel soon there will be a strong market for this car on this side of the pond in the next few years.
Regarding the comment that hatches didn't sell in the US. Aren't most (all) SUV's 5 door hatches? Aren't the so called Cross-Over vehicles that are supposed to be gaining popularity really just premium station wagons (also 5 door hatches) or down-sized SUV's. When were station wagons hot? Perhaps it's not the style but the size. Looking to the future - with the US dollar losing value and the cost of imported fuel rising as a result, perhaps the small hatch will gain in popularity for economy reasons. The Audi is supposed to be bringing the A3 to NA and Mercedes is going to sell the tiny Smart forTwo so perhaps a change in consumer tastes or requirements is forecast. The past doesn't always equate to the future. MINI is successful in spite of being even smaller and arguably less versatile/useful than the Golf, A3 or the 1 Series. It is successful solely due to the handling in my opinion. That is the reason I bought my Cooper S. So to be successful the 1 Series has to bring nearly the same handling, a more luxurious ride, and premium finish, technology and quality. I would consider one when I get tired of the MINIs' stiff ride. I like the appearance of the 1 Series.
woah - the specs on the 120d ROCK! Quickest of the group and amazing fuel economy, sign me up!
I converted the specs on the 120d over to mpg and it comes out to around 41! That is amazing for a car that is that quick. And the engine has great torque for around town cruising.
Gabe, will there be any way to import these cars to the US? Say through Canada or somethin……
You would have as much chance as importing a BMW 330 wagon from Canada - which is to say not much. Granted it may be doable but the process, the expense, and the time involved would probably make it hard to justify.
BTW great comments everyone! I'm going to try to get this thread in front of someone over at BMW so they can see some of the more intelligent responses to the 1 series question.
Just a note to agree with Josh - I'm seeing Mazda 3 5-doors all over SoCal. There's something there.
BCNU,
Rob in Dago
Josh… It might not be cost effective to do it yourself, (but if it does come to pass, you might want to call a Customs Brokerage, and see if they can help you out..) you might be able to get a dealer to 'help out'….
I believe the exchange issues are the biggest concern of BMW's. There is a small window between the MINI and the 3 series to fit- especially if more variants of the MINI come out. I'm sure the 1 series range would be very limited if it did come here- the biggest I4's having a shot alone. An I6 1 series would hurt the excellent 325i. You have to wonder how the 1 series wouldn't affect both MINI and the 3 series (the two best my two favorite cars sold in the USA). It has the smaller size of the MINI, with probably equal handling and a better ride, plus the 3 series refinement, quality, and prowess.
Do I wish for for 120d? Yes. It'd go perfectly with my Cooper.
Do I understand BMW's hesitation? Yes. The USA is a huge investment and the profit margins would probably be too slim to immediately offer it here.
Will I visit my BMW dealer and express interest? Yes.
The 1 series is probably the best of bangle's recent big but designs. It harkens back to the simple proportions which breath poise and solidity.
Please.
I'd buy a 120i in a heartbeat. I'm a big fan of small sporty cars. I currently drive an Audi TT, but want something that seats 4. That's why I like the MCS. However I'd still rather have a 4-door.
The Mazda 3-series 5-door is a great car … but I'd happily pay a little more and get an Audi or a BMW.
I'm certain people in metro areas would love this car.
I'm actually very interested in this car–it seems to fill a great niche that is untapped in the Bimmer line. I like the looks, and I would love to be able to get the rear end loose in a hatch for once! Sign me up, Gabe!
So were they talking somewhere else about a small inline six? Looks like all 4 cylinders to me…I'd like to go higher in power, but I don't see those d's coming here unfortunately. (Although VW is claiming the diesels are going to be all the rage very soon.)
The inline 6 isn't listed here because it would be a later release.
Also BMW has openly stated it plans to bring some of it's diesels to the US in the next 2 years.
BTW if anyone is interested the 1 series brochures are out in the UK and I would assume Germany. I picked up one at a BMW dealer outside of Oxford. It has quite a few different photos but all of the same car. It does however list all the specifications. Looks like no SMG at least for the first model year.
I think BMW 1 Series well find a huge acceptance in all over the world.
By this Series BMW will enter a new segment of customer. So they can approach more customers.
Safety, good handling, nice design, good price etc…. all of that will make this car so successful in the market
Regarding the MINI COOPER, mini will still a mini as it is a unique car and I think this car have a good history?
I have a 98 z3 with a 1.9 power plant. It's a smooth, linear and fast. I'm looking for a suitable replacement and a #2 convert. or a z2 woyld be super. The 120d would be the family vehicle. WOW.
I am in the UK. I think that many people may have missed a very important point about this vehicle. First of all BMW have entered a market where there is substantial interest from a high volume of European buyers. Moreover they have introduced a diesel concept.
The Golf GTI has been the quality brand of choice in this sector and to be frank there is little to compete with the Golf in this class.
What BMW have done is superb. They have brought a high value brand into the small car class in petrol and diesel forms and in a style and door configuration that matches the golf. This car takes the Golf head-on.
The Mini attracts a different customer with a very different budget. To many it is a cult car and many people remember 'The Italian Job' and the heady days when the 'Cooper S' was just unbeatable.
By entering the market at this level BMW introduce a customer to a lower cost car with a very high spec at prices yet to be known. But this stratgey will, if the car and price are right, build a life long brand loyalty.
Now compare another competitor in the market. Mercedes. With all due respect to Mercedes A Class owners, just on the photographic evidence alone would you rather have an A Class or the new 1 series. For me I would choose the 1 series. My wife would not be seen dead in an A class but would be happy in a 1 series and she is American.
So in the bigger picture BMW have laid down the gauntlet to VW, Mercedes and anyone else thinking of entering the high value end of the small car market. In essence this is not likely to be the Mini customer.
Will this strategy work? I have little doubt that this is a strategy that will work providing the price is right and I am sure this will be the case.
For a case study look at Jaguar. There are so many S and X class Jags on British roads they are just ordinary now BUT Jaguar have begun the process of lifelong branding. If people like the smaller cars they will stay with the brand and buy the bigger ones later. Its worked for Jaguar and Mercedes and will no doubt work for BMW.
Is the 1 series an ugly car? Nah, its gonna sell and its gonna sell big time.
Will it be available in the USA? For sure but why struggle in a market that is new to small cars when you can sell bucket loads in markets that WANT this kind of vehicle and want it now.
Safe prediction. The orders for Europe on a like for like basis at launch will swamp the same sales in the US when the car is launched there.
Basic economics dictate that this car must be sold in Europe first.
By a case study again the Maybach will sell more in the US than Europe.
Of course if the US is not happy about this decisiojn by BMW then then the answer is simple, personal imports from Europe.
If I had a big car I would launch it in the states.
Hope my contribution is worthy.
By the way anyone from BMW that agrees with my strategic analysis is welcome to contact me.
Kindest to all
Cliff
Really well said. However importing non-certified cars into the US is very difficult and costly. It's very different than say bring a German car into the UK. If it wasn't I'm sure there would be a number of us looking at doing it in the near future.
The only thing that I'll say in regards to the supposed market for the 1 series in the US is look at the MINI. The US is the 2nd largest market for the car in the world. Who would have guessed that 4-5 years ago.
To all of you that are interested in importing a BMW 1 series, you can find more information about the US customs rules here on their website.
I would suggest to look into getting on from Denmark or Belgium, where the car prices (excluding all taxes) are the lowest, everybody speaks English, and the service level is high.
With a duty of 2.5% and no gas-guzzler tax, I think that it could be worth it.
Anyway, I can answer some questions on the European side of the scheme, if you have any :) Good luck!
it's just not fair that the us market can't buy the 1 series yet. i'd love to have one myself. i drive a 318i and i am very fond of 4 bangers from bmw. great job with the 1 series. and wow, a diesel….
after a long research i made i found out that it is a great car. if you tried to compare it with any car you wouldn't find one.it has a great engines which are excellent in cities. i know it has a simple look but a great interior and i think that rocketboy is wrong.
I currently drive a '98 318ti and have been waiting for a new hatch back design from BMW. I love the new 1 series. I need to put sports equipment in my car and the hatch works great for that. I do not want to drive a station wagon as I am single and a wagon is a more suburban/family car.
Would love to buy the 116i in Germany somehow before it gets to the states. Does anyone out there have any ideas on how best to do this?
Just order new 1 Series for Jan ** Cant wait 120 Sports
I am totally enthused with the 5door 1er and extremely disappointed at BMW USA for not realizing its potential. Its a beautiful vehicle. I'm trying to get more info on the cost to make one meet regs to bring in into the country on my own. Is there anyone else who is in the process of doing this. Anyone interested in forming a website to gain signatures or a group to cost share on bringing in several of these cars?
I have just bought one. Driving it is far more exiciting.
This car makes people head turn everywhere and for me its a very curious car to have.
Design is superb and even the kids enjoy a drive back home instead of the estate. Leg space at rear is not generous, but booty is very.
The only other rival would be the Golf GTi
Hi everybody
Here a comment from Switserland. Just drived my first 200 miles with our new company car, a BMW 118D.
Its a very fine car to drive with a very precice handling in steering. The 122 horsepower engine is fine, but if I had the choise, I would buy the 120D.
Like with all BMW cars, you really have the feeling that you have top quality in your hands, and that this car would easily drive a few 100.000 miles.
Compared to my private Car, a VW Jetta Diesel 130 horsepower (2002 model) the steering is more precise and the engine less noisy.
However, VW has a different diesel engine based on Pompe-Duse technology, which give you more power, and more economics (although the official figgers are comparable, the BMW seems to use around 10% more fuel).
For the real sportive drivers here I don’t thing the BMW 1 serie is a real alternative to the Golf and the A3. Both are here in europe with 6-line 3.2 liter engines.
I’ hope for you guys that BMW will export the car to the USA. It seems that the dollar rates are getting up, so the euro related products get cheaper.
Best regards.
Ronald
IS the BMW 1 series going to come to Canada? A great looking car–will be interesting to see how it will fare with the Mercedes B class
I think BMW is nuts not bringing the 1 Series here to the States. I’d buy it in a minute! I have NO interest in the Mini. I want a small 5 door hatch, and will look to the Golf or Japan to supply it, if BMW doesn’t…
I think BMW 1 is the most gorgeous
car that I ever seen.
spom pelqen mini sepse ngusht per me qi pidha
The 1er will be here soon enough and then we’ll see what it does for MINI (and 3er!) sales…..???
Audi will probably eat up the sales with their new A3 and then BMW will get the picture that the one series would have been a great chance to capitalize on a lower budget entry level car. I know I would be looking more at a BMW 1 series over a Mini if I could get it…just for the stigma of the BMW name. I would be one of those who would upgrade into a three series and beyond as I got older.
Mike
I decided not to buy a BMW 5 series because of the 1 series cars coming out. Even though they say now it will not come to the USA. BMW thinks in terms sales figures not exclusive owners any more, like it did in the 80s and 90s. I fear the 1 series BMW comes to the USA. Everyone will have one just like a VW. The Peoples Cars. I don’t want to pay 50k for a the peoples car or would I pay that much for VW Phaeton.
The BMW 1 series is a really classy car. I just got one here in Jamaica. I guess it shows alot of class and sophistication.
I want RWD, diesel, manual, and 4 door hatchback. So 120d is the only choice.
Or I will stay with some Acura, because I don’t like VW.
I have driven Golf*s for numerous years and feel I want a change
I do like the TDI for economy and get up and go what do B.M.W have to offer me, similar? and what price in The U.K.
Hi, I live in Mexico and I drove a Mini for 2 years. The 1 series came to Mexico and I fell in love with it. I assume that people in the U.S. make negative comments about this car because they have not personally seen it nor driven it. Its interiors are quite the same as the 2006 3 series and you get the driving pleasure of a Real BMW (not a MINI). The front exterior looks quite classy but I agree that the back exterior looks more like a regular hatchback (VW golf). Then again, I would not change my 1 series for any other car.
Hey! i live in cancun, mexico and i have a red 120ia and it’s not just a grreat car, it’s THE car! it sure is classy, distinctive, it’s front side is very agressive and very BMW. I wouldn’t change anything from this car except maybe more hp, because the concept of this car is excellence…
I recommend it to everyone, go and get one!!
Hi, I live in Iceland and I´m thinking about buying the 120d. It´s great car and I would like to import the car with me if I would go in school in US, Would it be wery expensive for me? Taxes and cargo costs and such things…
Also, I´ve been reading posts here and I was thinking, is there any problems for people in the US to import the BMW 1 series from Mexico?
regards Eva :)
With gas prices averaging $3 a gallon, I personally think BMW 1 series would be a welcome addition here in the U.S. Having the thrill of driving fun in a BMW that don’t hurt your wallet at the pump.
renaldi from nj
Bring it to the US. The 1 series fits the needs and likes of many young car buyers. A sporty, practical, quality car that looks good and gets good gas mileage. Now with gas prices very high, Americans are starting to realize that SUV’s and big cars really suck. Bring it to the US! I’d buy it.
Eva,
I emailed BMW to ask them the exact question as you have. And, they strongly discourage the practice and just to scare the daylight out of you. Here is what they told me…
“According to U.S. Customs, EPA, and DOT regulations, non-conforming vehicles must be imported through a certified Independent Commercial Importer (ICI), who will be responsible for the emission compliance, and through a Registered Importer (RI), who will be responsible for the safety compliance of the vehicle. The ICI and RI should be able to answer your questions with regard to the modifications that will be necessary for importation. Additionally, if your state has a vehicle registration inspection, further modifications may be required to pass that inspection.
Please note, BMW does not recommend the importation of non-U.S. specification vehicles into the U.S. due to the extent of the necessary modifications and the expenses involved. BMW cannot assure a replacement parts supply or verify the modifications. The ICI and RI should be able to provide you with the estimated costs associated with such modifications. The DOT can be contacted at (202) 366-0123. The EPA can be contacted at (202) 564-9660. They can assist you with identifying an importer near the port where you intend to bring the vehicle into the United States. Also, there is a website, http://www.NHTSA.DOT.GOV, which explains the importation process and lists importers. “
Also, you may have to bring 2 of them in so they can crash test one of them. I think that may actually even be a real law that is unless the car you are importing is a prototype.
I wish BMW would bring the car here. I can not buy a Mini due to size and my commute needs. And, I would not want to buy either an Audi A3, Mazda 3.
Please BMW bring the car to the US, Please!!!
I just came back from Germany and was lucky enough to be able to rent a 118d for two weeks. Incredible car. Fast, corners great and small enough to work well on the narrow lanes in Bavaria. If you had to haul more than two people and other things, you’d have problems. If they put them up for sale here, I might be the first one in line to purchase one.
how does it compare to the 3 series of the honda civic 2006 model. i am confused on which one i should buy.
i love the BMW 1 series! being a BMW fan, and working for a BMW dealership, my one wish would be that BMWNA would realize the HUGE(!!) opportunity they could have if they released the 1 series for all of us here in the US to enjoy. its not quite a wagon, not quite a SAV, and just too cool. i have heard that BMWNA is having a major problem with introducing the 1 series to the United States because of the fact that it is A LOT less expensive than the 3. so what, BMWNA? do you have a problem introducing a car just because its less expensive? of course you do. but think of it this way… introducing the 1 series to all of us here in the US would definitely attract the younger generation, and would be a fantastic stepping stone in creating customers “brand loyalty” very early with the younger kids. i have a very strong feeling that the 1 series would help BMW, not hurt it. so what are you waiting for BMWNA? get your heads out of your A** and give it to us already. NOW.
Is the 2 series coupe coming out by any chance??
I can’t wait anymore ………
FUN..
I currently drive a 740i which is in the shop because of an “engine light on”…4th time. The dealership has lent me the use of a new 1 series and am I having fun!! I feel excitement once again behind the wheel. Cornering, accelleration and the feel of the road (handing in general) is wonderful not to mention fairly descent gas milage.
I bought my 7-series for comfort and safty ,however, after reading about the 1-series I feel that it’s safety is more than suitable. After driving it I want it to be mine. This could possible become my second car (fun car) that makes me feel alive again behind the wheel.
[...] Several years back we posed the question; what does the BMW 1 Series mean for the MINI? Up until a few days ago the BMW 1 Series was a 5 door hatch that was the closest thing BMW sold to a MINI that was, well not a MINI. We wondered how this (at the time) new small hatch could potentially canabalize sales of everyone’s favorite small car. That question just got a whole lot more interesting this week as BMW finally released the two door hatchback version of the 1 Series. This gives the MINI some true competition within the BMW Group family and MINI owners potentially something else to consider as they car shop. [...]
I saw one on the road last week. It was a white 4-door hatch with New Jersey plates on it. It passed me on the right and I said what the heck is that? So i got a little closer and low and behold it was the 1 Series for sure. I wish I had a camera phone. So are these testers or are they destined for the US market? I like it, but i think the coupe will be a bigger seller. I’ll take a 135i!!!
I owned a BMW 118 in the UAE…wow what a car! The fuel economy is amazing but more importantly you don’t compromise style or fuctionality to get it. The six speed auto tranmission was great and manually shifting definitely gives you a superior feeling of being in control. I am moving back to Canada and I hope it is available there soon as I would definitely be a lifer with this car…maybe the 130 but I am kind of stuck of the fuel economy of the 118…
Does anyone know how much the BMW 1 Series are going to start at?
[...] the New BMW 1 Series and what it means for the MINI ] [...]
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