• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Practical, but still interesting.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Impressed.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    My experience so far is pretty good with the car, so I wouldn't have any concerns over another 1 Series.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Possibly another BMW, probably move up the range to a 3 Series.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £14,600

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2015

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    The BMW dealer that I purchased the car from knocked a few hundred off of the list price; there wasn't too much room for negotiation as they help to settle the finance on my Toyota.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

    Very helpful with the buying process. Had plenty of knowledge for the details of the car. Everything that you would expect from a BMW main dealer. The test drive was a good mix of town, country and dual carriage higher speed driving. The dealership itself was very modern with plenty of vehicles on offer, and not a bad cappuccino whilst waiting!

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Pretty smooth to drive generally, motorways are fairly effortless even in my 118D, six speed manual handles everyday driving with ease. I spend most of the time in 'eco pro mode', giving around 54MPG, but when in 'Sport Plus mode' it can give a pretty responsive acceleration with minimal turbo lag.

    What's it like to park?

    Fine, especially with the rear parking sensors and visual display on the iDrive screen.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    The cabin fan is very noisy - a common fault on the vehicle so I am told. Going back to main dealer in the next few weeks for repair; they where more than helpful to arrange for this, along with a courtesy car.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Boot space is pretty good for a hatchback. Mine has the extended storage so plenty of cubby holes and storage nets throughout to keep any extras for the journey secure.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Extended lighting pack; LED lights integrated into the exterior door handles giving a white glow when unlocking the car at night - nice touch I think. Electric bolster adjustment is also a good touch - especially when driving 'spiritedly'.