Opinion: the 1 Series isn't a good-looking BMW, but it's still... a good BMW

When I think of the current BMW model line-up, the entry 1 Series hatch isn’t the first car that comes to mind. Not that I overlook its existence, but it doesn’t capture my imagination in ways I’d hope and want. It’s just a bit disappointing.

The main reason for my lack of enthusiasm is the exterior design. The iX shows how BMW has struggled to create a new socially acceptable design language in recent years... that it appears to have backtracked on with the lovely iX3. I know that styling is subjective, but I don’t think it’s ridiculous to say the 1 Series still looks kinda awkward.

Despite some features being facelifted, the front, side and rear proportions still don’t quite match up. Some parts look over-designed, like the front grille and rear bumper. It doesn’t take inspiration from iconic BMW heritage designs of the past, and it doesn’t showcase a bold vision for the future.

It’s a weak point when compared with its closest rivals like the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class. The identity crisis isn’t confined to the current F70 generation either. None of the previous 1 Series exteriors have convinced me since it was introduced back in 2004.

The latest design doesn’t look bad or wrong exactly – maybe the cool BMW image rubs off on the 1 Series – but it doesn’t look good or right either. That is until you drive even the boggo 120 Sport, then you get a different impression altogether.

Trying not to grimace at the outside, I daydream about drifting an M3 Touring instead. Then I notice the interior through the window. Some nice metal, fabric and fancy plastics make it feel more premium than it is. The digital instrument cluster and central interface display look modern, and after some practice, aren’t that inconvenient to operate.

I didn’t expect much from the little front-wheel drive oddball, but the driving experience is better than you’d think. The powertrain is a pick'n'mix of bits. It has a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, turbocharger and mild-hybrid electric motor, and it works surprisingly well together.

With 168bhp, there’s enough pace when you want it - zero to 62mph takes 7.8 seconds, it’ll do 140mph flat out. It handles well too. It’s not the ultimate driving machine, but the steering is relatively precise. It copes quite well when you throw it at corners, thanks to some trick front and rear suspension.

It’s also practical. Sure, there are bigger hatches, but it has enough space for people and things. And it’s efficient too – BMW's claim of 53mpg is very respectable indeed.

So, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover… even if the cover isn’t that great. The current 1 Series is better than it looks. Perhaps all it really needs is a Neue Klasse redesign. Imagine that.