The 1M scores highly. Driver, front passenger, side, thorax airbags and head airbags for driver and front passenger are featured. Electronic systems to help you avoid being involved in accidents include ABS, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). Park Distance Control should help you avoid unnecessary dings, scuffs and knocks when parking.

Euro NCAP awarded the BMW 1-Series Coupe with five stars when it was tested.

Thanks to its coupe shape the 1M is actually more practical than the 1-Series in three-door and five-door hatchback guises. The boot has a maximum of 370 litres with the rear seats in place whereas the normal 1-Series hatch has only got a loadspace of 330 litres. The boot will easily take three or four soft bags, which is plenty for a weekend away. On the inside there are a good number of cubbies, but the central drinks holder is in an awkward place when you have the armrest ‘flat’ – a 500ml bottle will not stand straight thanks to the close proximity of the armrest.

The door pockets could also be a little wider, but these are minor points.