The BMW 1-Series represents a range of compact cars in the premium class C category. It holds the position below the BMW 3-Series in the Bavarian manufacturer’s model lineup. The 1-Series is designed to offer a luxurious driving experience in a smaller package.
The first generation of the 1-Series, identified as the E81/E87 series, also served as the foundation for producing coupes and convertibles, which carried the E82 and E88 designations, respectively. Eventually, the two-door variants evolved into a separate model, the BMW 2-Series.
Competitors and Rivals
The BMW 1-Series competes with a variety of premium compact cars from other manufacturers. Some notable competitors include:
- Volvo C30 and V40
- Audi A3
- Mercedes-Benz A-Class
- Lexus CT
- Alfa Romeo Giulietta
- And others.
Diverse Engine Range
The first-generation BMW 1-Series offers a wide range of engine options. These include naturally aspirated and turbocharged 4-cylinder engines with displacements ranging from 1.6 to 2.0 liters, as well as in-line six-cylinder engines with or without supercharging, with displacements from 2.5 to 3.0 liters. Additionally, BMW produced sports versions of the 1M and M135i with power outputs exceeding 300 horsepower.
In the diesel category, the selection is not as extensive but still provides choices. Diesel engines in the first-generation 1-Series come in two displacements, 1.6 and 2.0 liters, with varying power outputs to suit different preferences and requirements.
Introduction of the Second Generation
In 2017, BMW launched the second generation of the 1-Series, with a body designated as F52 in the case of the sedan variant. Notably, the regular models replaced the in-line six-cylinder engines with powerful 4-cylinder options. However, the engine offerings remain typical for BMW. For petrol engines, there are 3-cylinder 1.5-liter B38 and 4-cylinder 2.0-liter B48 options. These engines offer a broad range of power outputs depending on the specific modification. In the diesel category, there are 3-cylinder 1.5-liter B37 and 4-cylinder 2.0-liter B47 engines.
Technical Characteristics, Issues, and More
For detailed information on the technical characteristics of all BMW 1-Series engines, including known problems and shortcomings, recommended oils, tuning options, and more, you can explore dedicated resources and reviews that provide in-depth insights into the different engine variants used in the BMW 1-Series. This information can assist potential buyers and current owners in understanding their engine options and how to maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize their BMW 1-Series vehicles.
1st Generation E81/E82/E87/E88 (2004 – 2013)
| Model | Power (hp) | Engine Size (l) / Engine Series |
|---|---|---|
| BMW 116i | 115 | 1.6 / N45B16 |
| BMW 116i | 122 | 1.6 |
| BMW 118i | 129 | 2.0 |
| BMW 118i | 136 | 2.0 |
| BMW 118i | 143 | 2.0 |
| BMW 120i | 150 | 2.0 |
| BMW 120i | 156 | 2.0 |
| BMW 120i | 170 | 2.0 |
| BMW 125i | 218 | 3.0 |
| BMW 128i | 231 | 3.0 |
| BMW 130i | 258 | 3.0 |
| BMW 130i | 265 | 3.0 |
| BMW 135i | 306 | 3.0 |
| BMW 135i | 306 | 3.0 |
| BMW 1M | 340 | 3.0 |
| BMW 116d | 116 | 2.0 |
| BMW 118d | 122 | 2.0 |
| BMW 118d | 143 | 2.0 |
| BMW 120d | 163 | 2.0 |
| BMW 120d | 177 | 2.0 |
| BMW 123d | 204 | 2.0 |
2nd Generation F20/F21 (2011 – 2019)
| Model | Power (hp) | Engine Size (l) |
|---|---|---|
| BMW 114i | 102 | 1.6 |
| BMW 116i | 105 | 1.5 |
| BMW 116i | 136 | 1.6 |
| BMW 118i | 136 | 1.5 |
| BMW 118i | 136 | 1.6 |
| BMW 118i | 170 | 1.6 |
| BMW 120i | 177 | 1.6 |
| BMW 120i | 184 | 2.0 |
| BMW 125i | 218 | 2.0 |
| BMW 125i | 224 | 2.0 |
| BMW M135i | 320 | 3.0 |
| BMW M135i | 326 | 3.0 |
| BMW M140i | 340 | 3.0 |
| BMW 114d | 95 | 1.6 |
| BMW 116d | 116 | 1.5 |
| BMW 116d | 116 | 1.6 |
| BMW 116d | 116 | 2.0 |
| BMW 118d | 143 | 2.0 |
| BMW 118d | 150 | 2.0 |
| BMW 120d | 184 | 2.0 |
| BMW 120d | 190 | 2.0 |
3rd Generation F52/F40 (2017 – present)
| Model | Power (hp) | Engine Size (l) |
|---|---|---|
| BMW 114i | 102 | 1.6 |
| BMW 116i | 105 | 1.5 |
| BMW 116i | 136 | 1.6 |
| BMW 118i | 136/140 | 1.5 |
| BMW 120i | 140 | 1.5 |
| BMW 120i | 178/192 | 2.0 |
| BMW 125i | 192/231 | 2.0 |
| BMW 128ti | 265 | 2.0 |
| BMW M135i | 306 | 2.0 |
| BMW 114d | 95 | 1.6 |
| BMW 116d | 115 | 1.5 |
