BMW 1 Series - Small, but Great, Family Car

The BMW 1 Series was first introduced in 2004, the company's answer to the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf. This series was designed to replace the BMW Compact. It shares many components with the 3 Series from BMW, but is certainly its own car.

The 1 Series was first available as a 5-door hatchback, built in Regensburg, Germany. Some engine parts come from England fabrication plants. This model was one of BMWs most popular products from the moment it hit the international marketplace, beat out only by the 3 and 5 Series.

This car starts at around $39,000 with options adding onto the price tag.

Power

The standard engine installed in the 1 Series is the 3.0 L in-line 6, replacing smaller versions that were offered earlier on in the production of this vehicle. The new model reaches speeds of 200 kph and can hit 100 kph from a standing start in just 10.9 seconds. Not bad for a family car.

The five speed transmission has been discontinued as an option and all new models are outfitted with a six-speed manual transmission.

In town, you can expect to get 10 km to the litre, and on the highway, fuel economy is boosted even more.

Performance

To enhance traction and manoeuvrability, BMW has introduced the multi-link rear suspension. This enables the driver to accelerate without losing control, as well as giving the passengers a smoother ride.

Active steering has also been incorporated to make driving easier and more relaxing. This feature automatically adjusts the steering ration according to the car's speed. It also compensates for skidding.

Design

The BMW 1 Series is a sleek, compact family car that boasts a lot of power. Its almost mini sedan look is charming and modern and BMW has done its best to integrate great design with great performance.

The exterior of the car features a long wheelbase for extra stability, a long nose and short overhangs, typically associated with sports cars, rather than family cars. Here, functionality is blended with style.