 BMW 1-series |
BMW 1-series |
 BMW 1-series |
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28th September, 2004 2004 will go down as a memorable year for BMW as a new chapter begins in the company’s history. Not only has the year seen the return of the 6 Series, but it also saw the company continue targeting profitable new niches with the launch of the X3. Continuing the success is the arrival of a brand new BMW to a vital market segment – the BMW 1 Series. Introducing BMW’s ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ credentials to a new, broader marketplace, the 1 Series offers drivers the unique proposition of a front-engine, rear-wheel drive car with the practical day-to-day benefits of a compact hatchback. This potent combination sets it apart from class rivals, providing unsurpassed handling and ride through its near 50:50 weight distribution. Power directed to the rear wheels maintains optimum grip leaving the front wheels to steer. The result? Best in class driving dynamics and a BMW that will attract a whole new group of buyers to the brand. Being launched on 02 October, the BMW 1 Series comes with five doors, three engines, but just one aim – to set a new standard for its class through unique BMW design and engineering solutions.
* Based on ECE values Concept With this new model BMW has transferred its core DNA to a new vehicle segment to create both a smaller car and a true BMW. Market analysts observed a remarkable growth potential within the premium compact segment for a vehicle combining a high level of functionality and enhanced comfort and safety with the distinctive character and driving satisfaction of a BMW. Until now, consumers seeking these values were made to compromise. However, with the new BMW 1 Series, drivers who expect more than was previously available have the opportunity to become acquainted with the typical qualities of the BMW brand right down to the smallest detail. Design Visually its dimensions and styling are almost coupé-like, but internally the car is capacious with the height from the seat base to the roof lining measuring 963mm in the front and 967mm in the rear, providing ample headroom for tall passengers. Furthermore, the 1 Series offers occupants class-leading shoulder and elbow room for greater comfort. Another clear benefit of the front-engine, rear-drive layout is that the driver will also appreciate accelerator, brake and clutch pedals that are centrally located and not offset compared to its front-wheel drive competitors. Sharing technology with the larger models, the 1 Series can be specified with iDrive, including Professional or Business navigation systems, front and rear Park Distance Control with pictogram, Bluetooth telephone connectivity and Xenon headlamps. A distinct reference to the car’s sporting aspirations sits on the dashboard, with its standard Z8-style starter button. Pressing the button after inserting the new-style key fires up the technologically advanced four-cylinder engines. The newly-designed key retains the advanced Key Memory feature common to all BMWs. Courtesy of a microchip located inside the key, the 1 Series recognises which of the two keys supplied with the car is being used and alters door mirrors, air conditioning, radio and electric seat settings accordingly. Further personalisation is possible, with the owner able to specify the interior in either fabric upholstery or optional leather. Optional on the 118i and standard on the 120i, optional sport seats, derived from those in the M3 which provide the 1 Series driver with the ability to adjust the side bolsters for optimum lateral support. Again, further recognition of the 1 Series as a driver’s car. In the rear, boot capacity is 330-litres with the seats raised and with the rear seats spilt 60:40, the virtually flat load floor offers 1,150 litres of storage space. Chassis and suspension Once on the move, the rear-wheel drive 1 Series comes into its own, with the steering remaining uncorrupted and the car delivering a sports car-type driving experience. It is no coincidence that all serious racing cars are rear-wheel drive. But sporty and dynamic handling can be compromised by weight. Thanks to the car’s svelte 1,230kgs overall weight (118i), delivered through the use of aluminium parts, the 1 Series delivers on its promises. Much of the front suspension and subframe are made of aluminium along with the axle, suspension struts and pivot bearings. At the rear, BMW’s pioneering five-link rear suspension is fitted for optimum ride quality. By replacing the traditional double wishbone arrangement with a version of the five-link set-up employed on the 5 and 6 Series, engineers have been able to subtly alter the toe-in, toe-out and camber angles for increased cornering ability. For drivers wanting an even sportier ride, the new BMW 1 Series can be specified with sport suspension that lowers the car by a further 15mm. This not only gives the car a more aggressive stance but also adds to the performance characteristics by giving a more agile ride. Transferring the chassis abilities and engine performance to the road is the responsibility of the car’s Run-flat tyres. The 1 Series comes as standard with 16-inch wheels and Run-flat tyres, banishing roadside tyre changes to history. For those wanting to personalise their car, a variety of optional 16 or 17-inch alloy wheel designs are available as factory-fit or dealer-fit accessories. Engine and transmission The 110 kW BMW 120i is the largest petrol engine and features both double VANOS and VALVETRONIC variable valve control for increased engine efficiency and performance. A capacity of 1,995cc produces 200Nm of torque at 3,600rpm, a zero to 100 km/h time of 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 217 km/h. Even with these levels of performance, fuel consumption is a frugal 7.4 litres / 100km based on the combined EU cycle. When compared to its competitors, the 120i offers best-in-class acceleration, top speed, economy and emissions. With 95 kW extracted from its two litre engine, the BMW 118i possesses the same technical attributes as the 120i. It also features a double VANOS and VALVETRONIC engine. It accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 9.4 seconds and has a top speed of 208 km/h. Fuel consumption for this model, based on the combined EU cycle is just 7.3 litres / 100km. Whatever the choice of engine, a precise, short throw gearshift makes for quick and effortless changes. The BMW 118i has a five-speed manual gearbox, while the 120i has a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Both can also be specified with a six-speed automatic gearbox featuring Adaptive Gearbox System and Steptronic manual gear selection. Safety Another safety feature on the 1 Series is the recently introduced Brake Force Display (BFD). Using a double segment of lights in the rear light cluster, BFD increases the brake light illumination area as soon as the ABS system is activated or the car detects a rapid deceleration. The extra illumination warns drivers behind that the car is braking sharply. Should the worst happen and an accident occurs, sensors in the Advanced Safety Electronics system cut the fuel pump and alternator, and the battery is deactivated to minimise the risk of fire. Six airbags are standard in the 1 Series with the two front airbags intelligent, dual-stage versions that inflate in speed and size depending on the severity of the accident and work in conjunction with the active seatbelt tensioners. Front side airbags are located in the side of the front seat and AHPS head airbag system protects both front and rear passengers. To protect the smaller passengers, two ISOFIX child seat restraints in the rear are available across the 1 Series range. Standard equipment 120i – where additional to 118i |
