BMW 1-Series Hatchback (2011 - 2019) 114d ES 5d (2013/13) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
He couldn't afford a real BMW.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Nice looking car...until they have to squeeze themselves into it.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Its a company car, however, I would buy one myself but with a larger engine and a decent specification. The build quality is fine, but this is clearly a budget car. If you just want the badge, its fine, otherwise spend a bit more and get a proper BMW.
What are you likely to buy next?
I have a 13 year old Mercedes E320 diesel estate...and I'll be keeping it for a while yet. I'd love a 5 series 3.0 diesel though.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
January 2014
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Company Car.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Slow! This engine, 1.6 diesel with just 90bhp is very under powered and has very little torque. It has to be worked hard to make progress in town and on A roads, constantly using the six gears available which makes for anything but a relaxing drive. In contrast , motorway driving is relaxed once up to speed, but overtaking takes planning ahead and patience. I recently drove from Birmingham to Scotland at a steady 70mph and have never managed to get more than 53mpg! Driving around town returns 45-50mpg. This can only be down to having to work the engine hard all the time. A colleague who has the 2.0 diesel version obtains 55mpg . One criticism of the gearbox is that its very stiff to use and the my wife has to use two hands to get it in reverse, the spring is that strong!
What's it like to park?
About the same as most small cars. The cabin is quite cramped and visibility is limited. Parking sensors would definitely be on my options list if I were buying the car.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Nothing
What's most practical about your car?
I wouldn't really describe the car as practical. Its quite cramped and has a very small boot space. Its really just a way of getting from one place to another.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Basic model...has no gadgets.
