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BMW 1-Series Hatchback (2004-2011) running costs and reliability

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Written by Parkers Published: 8 February 2022

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 - 64 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.

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BMW 1 Series 2004-2011 front view, blue, driving, running costs

The 1 Series was the class-leader when it came to initial resale values. All average-mileage models were theortically worth at least 60% of their original price after three years. While the original range of engines were competitive in terms of power output and efficiency, technology introduced in 2007 resulted in some exceptional improvements in fuel consumption and lower emissions.

Thanks to the EfficientDynamics program, these later 1 Series perform well on the eco front. With an average of just 150g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions were very good for a small hatchback of the era, plus the range is was also very economical, averaging a claimed 48mpg at the time.

The fuel-saving system used a host of features, the most noticeable of which was the stop/start function.

The interior build quality felt robust when new and you should expect to find used examples wearing their miles well.

BMW 1 Series Sports Hatch stalling problems: extensive recall announced in 2018

Following an investigation by BBC’s Watchdog programme, an extensive recall – including petrol- and diesel-engined 1 Series models built between March 2007 and August 2011 – was announced in May 2018 to rectify an electrical fault that could cause affected BMWs to stall while they were being driven.

If you are considering buying a used example of this generation of 1 Series Sports Hatch, ensure that any remedial work has been undertaken.