BMW 1-Series Coupe (2007-2013) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 30 - 62 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Both diesel models (when fitted with the standard manual gearbox) feature auto stop start, a system that cuts out the engine when the car is stationary and out of gear in order to save fuel. The EfficientDynamics system trims fuel costs further with brake energy regeneration and electric power steering. Even the flaps behind the front grille help improve efficiency by staying closed until the engine is warm.

As a result, all versions of the 1 Series Coupe boast strong economy in addition to traditional strong BMW residual values. Values of 123d versions with average mileage should be 50% after three years.

The 1 Series Coupe performs well on the eco front, especially when you take into account the performance on offer. Even the top 135i model is capable of 31mpg with both the standard manual and optional automatic gearbox. But the greenest model is easily the 120d – this is capable of an impressive 59mpg while emitting just 128g/km of CO2, proving that BMWs EfficientDynamics system is the best fuel saving programme around.

As with other BMWs, build integrity is excellent and the quality of interior trim suggests a long life.

BMW 1 Series Coupe recalls

Although it proved to be broadly reliable, the 1 Series Coupe was subjected to three recalls.

Work to rectify a problem with the suspension and another issue with a brake servo, should have been completed a long time ago, but a further recall was announced in May 2018.

Petrol- and diesel-engined 1 Series Coupes could suffer an electrical malady that might cause them to cut out while they’re being driven. Contact a BMW dealer to check whether a used model you’re thinking of buying has been fixed.