BMW’s all-new 1 Series adds style and pace but loses its rear-wheel-drive USP

SEX sells. Compromise, well, doesn’t.

And BMW know this only too well.

6

6

Yet, after selling 1.4million of the outgoing 1 Series, the Germans are determined to sell  even more of the new 1 — claiming “this is what the people want”.

Rear-wheel drive is dead.

The USP that made this gateway Beemer something rather special in a sector rife with sensibility has finally been compromised for common sense.

And that is space.

Adopting the front wheel-drive architecture previously pioneered by the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, the new 1 is roomier inside with ostensibly no change to its physical size.

Adding to the list of anti-sexy alterations there is no three-door version now, either. It is five door or nothing.

But there are at least five different engines ranging from the base 1.5-litre 118i petrol to the long-legged 2-litre 118d diesel (60mpg) and on to the range-topping M135i that packs BMW’s most powerful turbocharged 2-litre petrol.

For a relatively pricey £36,430, it’ll do 0-62mph in 4.8seconds, hit 155mph while still able to return a pretty damn reasonable 35mpg.

6

6

Factor in a mechanical limited-slip differential, launch control and its delicious albeit synthesized soundtrack when in Sport mode and there is considerably more fun to be had than in the more prosaic models.

This most engaging version is also all-wheel drive — but no, it doesn’t offer a rear-wheel drive cheat mode as it won’t send more than 50 per cent of drive back there.

That said, the oodles of grip on offer bestow it with an appreciably accessible agility that will satisfy all but the most ardent of rear-wheel drive remainers.

The new 1 continues to be controversial in the styling department, too.

An enlarged kidney grille and swept-back headlights define a fresh new face while sleek rear LEDs and twin tailpipe exhausts give the wider-looking back end a racier stance. This helps it keep its distance from the unfortunate-looking 2 Series Active Tourer on which it’s based. But the inside is an undisputed triumph.

6

6

Resembling every inch its considerably more expensive BMW relatives, the 1 feels more premium than ever.

From prime switchgear to the chunky steering wheel, innovative backlit ambient lighting to panoramic sunroof, heavily improved sound insulation to actual legroom in the rear — it’s a marked step up.

Standard M Sport spec in- cludes 18in rims, leather sport seats, 8in touchscreen display, intelligent cruise control and a bunch of active safety systems.

MOST READ IN MOTORS

BOOT IT UP 

The 9p essential you MUST keep in your boot this winter - and 2 other items

ELECTRIC SHOCK 

Full list of top-selling hybrid cars facing BAN under strict EV crackdown

SLICK DRIVE

Mercedes launches ambitious EV to rival BMW & Audi - boasting 800 MILE range

'CRISIS' TALKS

Iconic car brand 'on brink of collapse' set to merge with TWO rival firms

Snazzy options include head-up display, gesture control, digital smartphone key, reversing assistant and BMW’s new Siri-like personal assistant.

Speaking of which, on a heavily-congested autobahn returning the M135i back to its Munich home, I said “OK BMW. I’m bored”.

The car’s response? I don’t believe you’re bored. Have you tried Sport mode yet?”

The firm has even thrown a little German humour into the mix.