Other BMW 1-Series (2004 - 2013) models:

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Found the Golf dull and the Focus cheap.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Love trips out in it, although find it a bit uncomfortable on long journeys as a passenger.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Definitely! First saved my life in a crash and second car hasn't missed a beat.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Volvo V50/S40 D4 perhaps.

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £8,750

    When did you buy the car?

    June 2013

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Reasonable discount.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Best mix of performance and economy in hatchback diesels and owned one before which saved my life.

    What was the dealer like?

    Pretty poor (Skoda Watford). Promised 1 years warranty which didn't exist, also never sent V5C document. No previous MOT certificates given.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Best hatchback full stop. Owned 2 BMW 120D, a Honda Civic 2.2D and a Golf GTI mk5 and the BMW is the best mix by far. I'd have a GTI again in a heartbeat though despite 29mpg.

    What's it like to park?

    Easy! parking sensors all round and a very narrow short car. Visibility can be an issue at times.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Xenon headlight bulb and ballast. BMW quoted £250+, sourced both independently for £80. Front passenger seat broken when I bought the car, Skoda Watford refused to take responsibility.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Not much! Useful acceleration for overtaking. 50MPG.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Heated seats, the engine!