BMW 1 Series (2019-2024) review

The £26,450 118i opens the bidding, followed by the £27,595 116d and £28,775 118d. That’s with the manual box and in SE trim. You’re looking at between £1-1.5k on top if you want the auto ‘box.

Moving up into Sport trim unlocks the 120d, in both FWD and AWD variants and available exclusively with an auto ‘box and paddles. Prices start from £33,240 and £34,780 respectively.

The range-topping 135i xDrive, solely available in top-spec M trim, starts at £38,440. It’s not quite as hot as BMW would have you believe, with the front-wheel-drive only, Golf GTI rivalling 128ti a better option – and for less money, too.

Monthly payments start at around £380 for entry-level 118i and 116d, rising to around £490 the 128ti and £540 for the range topping M135i on a three-year agreement. 

The higher the trim, the more schporty, we presume?

You know it. There’re three choices: SE, Sport and M Sport, plus the 128ti and flagship ‘M’ model. Standout features of SE models include BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional display, full LED headlights and front and rear park distance control as standard.

Sport models add a couple of exterior styling tweaks and 17in alloy wheels plus sportier steering wheel and front seats, while M Sport models add a noticeably sportier bodykit, 18in alloy wheels, upgraded suspension, heated front seats and folding wing mirrors. 

As ever there’s a whole heap of optional extras worth perusing, too – the £750 Harmon/Kardon surround sound system is well worth considering, the £350 gesture control... isn't.

Got it. What should I go for?

The 118i or 118d would be our choice, given their reasonable value for money and adequate power most people in everyday use. On entry-level SE trim they do look a little weak on 16in alloys, however, so you might want to add a bigger set for £495 or just step up from SE to Sport spec, which brings a touch more style without going OTT. We’re not so sure the entry-level 118 justifies the more aggressive M Sport kit.

The warranty is three years, with unlimited miles allowed in that time.