2011 BMW 1-Series Hatchback Review
Price
RM203,800
Installment
RM1,944/mth
2011 BMW 1-Series Hatchback at a glance
Endowed with sharp steering and a superb chassis, the 2011 BMW 1-Series Hatchback handles with dynamic purity. But the rest of the package—gawky looks, lack of build quality and poor practicality—works against it.
2011 BMW 1-Series Hatchback quick specs
| Body Style | Hatchback |
| Class | Small Luxury |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 BMW 1-Series Hatchback ratings (overall rating : 3/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
We truly cannot say we are on board with the design. BMW has brought their design controversy too far with the 1-Series hatchback. The front end is typical BMW, but the side and rear are both gawky. Direct rival Audi A3 definitely looks more cohesive. Move inside and things improve as dashboard design and instruments are similar to the BMW 3-Series's.
Handling
The 2011 BMW 1-Series is intended to provide BMW's famed driving pleasure—and it delivered. With a 50:50 weight distribution, front-mounted engine, and rear-wheel-drive configuration, there is a balanced feel, bundles of grip, excellent body control and a sharp, responsive steering. Through corners, the 2011 BMW 1-Series roadholds sturdily with impressive neutrality. In short, this is a car made for enthusiastic drivers seeking dynamic purity.
Comfort
The sporty suspension setup compromises the ride comfort. But cabin refinement is high with well-contained road and wind noise; smooth engine is quiet throughout. The many adjustments for seats and steering wheel allow drivers to find the perfect driving position. Ergonomics are good and we have no problem operating the various controls. On-road visibility is however limited due to the thick windscreen pillars.
Quality + Reliability
Overall quality is still in line with BMW's luxury standing, but some switchgear are made from cheap-looking plastics. The lack of quality can also be observed in the boot, where plastics and carpeting are flimsy. If the Audi A3's cabin can be constructed to such a high standard, perhaps BMW should have paid more attention to details in the 1-Series's cabin? Having said that, BMW has always been reliable in their offerings, and the 2011 BMW 1-Series should be the same.
Performance
Two engine options are available for the five-door version: a 1.6-litre in-line four capable of 115 bhp of power, and another 2.0-litre in-line four capable of 136 bhp. On the road, both engines are refined but feel slightly underpowered. Acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h takes 12.3 and 10.1 seconds, both aided by a slick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. For 116i and 118i, their engine performances are overshadowed by the excellent chassis.
Roominess
Because of the rear-wheel drive layout, interior room suffers. While the front two enjoy comfortable head- and leg- room, those at the back have much less to content with. Compared to the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3, the 2011 BMW 1-Series falls way short on rear space. Boot capacity is relatively small too, but at least the rear seats can split 60/40 and fold flat for additional storage space when needed.
Running Costs
The 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre engines have official fuel consumption figures of 13.0 km/litre and 13.2 km/litre respectively. Servicing and repairs, as for most luxury cars, would be costly. Road tax costs RM 90 and RM 377.50 annually, but insurance will be much more significant in a couple of thousands. BMW models typically hold their value well. But due to Malaysians' preference for sedans, depreciation of the BMW 1-Series hatchback should be higher than a similarly-priced BMW sedan.
Value for Money
The cheapest way to enter the BMW 'club' is by no means cheap at RM 203,800. By comparison, the Volkswagen Golf GTI goes for RM 209,888 and the Audi A3 starts at RM 225,589. The 2011 BMW 1-Series's handling is certainly up there among the best in the class, but the rest of its package is not. Brand factor aside, the Golf GTI offers the best value for the money.
Equipment
Metallic paintwork, 16-inch alloy wheels, run-flat tyres, foglights, automatic climate control, and stereo with MP3 decoder are available for 116i. 118i adds rain sensors, leather sports steering wheel, cruise control and rear Park Distance Control (PDC). Safety-wise, driver and front passenger get front and side airbags, while curtain airbags protect front and rear passengers. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) includes anti-lock braking system and traction control.
Environment
Emission levels of 152 g/km and 148 g/km from the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre, respectively, are commendable. Such figures are almost impossible in the past. But with luxury automakers like BMW and Audi taking the lead, there is hope for the co-existence of supercars and the environment.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Superb chassis
Sharp steering
BMW badge aids desirability
Gawky looks
Build quality below expectation
Slightly underpowered engine
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