Minor Change Focused on Exterior

Since the first model appeared in 2004, the "1 Series" has been BMW's most compact model. The second generation debuted in 2011, and this is the minor-changed version that has now been unveiled.

The new 1 Series has a sportier face, reminiscent of the "2 Series," moving away from its previous gentle and soft expression. The adoption of front LED headlights gives it a sharper impression. The rear has also been updated with L-shaped combination LED lights, imparting the new generation of BMW design common to the "3 Series" and "5 Series."

Both the "118i" and "120i" models available in Japan are equipped with a 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder twin-power turbo engine. The "118i" produces a maximum output of 100 kW (136 ps) at 4,400-6,450 rpm and a maximum torque of 220 Nm (22.4 kgm) at 1,350-4,300 rpm. The "120i" boasts a maximum output of 130 kW (177 ps) at 5,000 rpm, an increase of 5 kW (6 ps) over the previous model, and a maximum torque of 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) at 1,500-4,500 rpm.

The transmission is an 8-speed automatic (torque converter type), delivering strong torque from low RPMs. Combined with the auto start/stop function to suppress unnecessary fuel consumption and the coasting function that disengages the transmission and engine to allow for freewheeling, all managed by the Driving Performance Control "ECO PRO Mode," fuel efficiency has been improved by up to 20 percent.

The drive format is, of course, rear-wheel drive (FR). In addition to the ideal front-rear weight distribution of approximately 50:50, the sporty and agile handling characteristic of BMW, despite its compact size, remains intact in this new model.

The Strategically Priced 118i Starts at 2.98 Million Yen

While there are no major changes to the interior, the new model employs a layering design technique, creating a sense of space by dividing it with multiple horizontal lines and surfaces that extend from the dashboard to the door panels. Continuing from the previous model, the iDrive navigation system is standard on all vehicles, featuring an 8.8-inch high-resolution wide display and an iDrive controller with a touchpad for text input and map zooming/panning.

Additionally, the "118i" and "120i" offer three style packages with newly designed elements: "Sport," "Style," and "M Sport," allowing owners to choose their preferred style. The "Driving Assistant" is also standard, featuring Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, and Collision Mitigation Brake.

Meanwhile, the high-performance "M135i" model, also available in the previous generation, is part of the lineup. Its 3-liter inline 6-cylinder twin-power turbo engine, honed by BMW M, delivers a maximum output of 240 kW (326 ps) at 5,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 450 Nm (45.9 kgm) at 1,300-4,500 rpm, an increase of 5 kW (6 ps) over the previous model. The 0-100 km/h acceleration is a mere 4.9 seconds, showcasing performance on par with high-end sports cars.

The M135i comes with numerous exclusive equipment features, including Adaptive M Suspension, a front apron with large air intakes, and 18-inch M light-alloy wheels.

The price of the new 1 Series starts at 2.98 million yen for the entry-grade "118i," which is under 3 million yen. The "118i Sport / Style" is priced at 3.38 million yen, and the "118i M Sport" at 3.58 million yen. The "120i Sport / Style" is 3.97 million yen, the "120i M Sport" is 4.12 million yen, and the top-grade "M135i" is 5.66 million yen. Sales are scheduled to begin on May 23rd.

BMW 118i
Body Size | Length 4,340 x Width 1,765 x Height 1,440 mm
Wheelbase | 2,690 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,520 / 1,555 mm
Weight | 1,430 kg
Engine | 1,598 cc Inline 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo
Compression Ratio | 10.5 : 1
Max Output | 100 kW (136 ps) / 4,400 - 6,450 rpm
Max Torque | 220 Nm (22.4 kgm) / 1,350 - 4,300 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT
Drive System | FR
Suspension Front | Double-joint spring-strut
Suspension Rear | 5-link
Brakes Front | Ventilated discs
Brakes Rear | Ventilated discs
Tires Front/Rear | 205/55R16
0-100km/h Acceleration | 8.7 seconds
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 16.6 km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity | 360 (1,200 with rear seats folded) ℓ
Price | 2.98 million yen

BMW 120i M Sport
Body Size | Length 4,340 x Width 1,765 x Height 1,430 mm
Wheelbase | 2,690 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,520 / 1,555 mm
Weight | 1,440 kg
Engine | 1,598 cc Inline 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo
Compression Ratio | 10.5 : 1
Max Output | 130 kW (177 ps) / 5,000 rpm
Max Torque | 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) / 1,500 - 4,500 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT
Drive System | FR
Suspension Front | Double-joint spring-strut
Suspension Rear | 5-link
Brakes Front | Ventilated discs
Brakes Rear | Ventilated discs
Tires Front/Rear | 225/45R17 / 245/40R17
0-100km/h Acceleration | 7.2 seconds
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 16.8 km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity | 360 (1,200 with rear seats folded) ℓ
Price | 4.12 million yen

BMW M135i
Body Size | Length 4,340 x Width 1,765 x Height 1,430 mm
Wheelbase | 2,690 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,510 / 1,535 mm
Weight | 1,560 kg
Engine | 2,979 cc Inline 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo
Compression Ratio | 10.2 : 1
Max Output | 240 kW (326 ps) / 5,800 rpm
Max Torque | 450 Nm (45.9 kgm) / 1,300 - 4,500 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed Sport AT
Drive System | FR
Suspension Front | Double-joint spring-strut
Suspension Rear | 5-link
Brakes Front | Ventilated discs
Brakes Rear | Ventilated discs
Tires Front/Rear | 225/40R18 / 245/35R18
0-100km/h Acceleration | 4.9 seconds
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 12.5 km/ℓ
Trunk Capacity | 360 (1,200 with rear seats folded) ℓ
Price | 5.6 million yen

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