Read Caroline’s BMW 1 Series review for everything you need to know about buying BMW’s compact hatchback in Ireland in 2025.
The BMW 1 Series is now in its fourth generation and despite customer demand for SUVs, it stays on in its role as BMW’s premium compact hatchback to rival the likes of the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class.
It’s been smartened up inside and out, with a new interior design that incorporates BMW’s curved display for the first time.
The range has been simplified quite dramatically with no more diesels and just the choice of the petrol-powered 120 or the high-performance M135 xDrive.
But it’s the 120 that’s likely to be of most interest in Ireland and it’s the subject of my review.
Design
The exterior dimensions of the new 1 Series haven’t changed dramatically, though it is slightly longer and taller than before. It also sits lower to the road, giving it a sportier stance. At the front, standard-fit LED headlights and a redesigned kidney grille with vertical and diagonal bars mark out the latest generation. In Ireland, buyers can choose between Sport and M Sport trims, with the latter adding larger air intakes, pronounced side skirts and a sculpted diffuser at the rear for extra drama.
From the side, the new 1 Series is defined by a dynamic wedge shape and a neat nod to heritage with a ‘1’ motif in the Hofmeister kink. For the first time, it’s also available with a contrasting high-gloss black roof, adding a distinctive edge to the hatchback’s profile. Wheels start at 17-inch on the Sport model, rising to 18-inch for M Sport. At the back, a roof spoiler and two-part rear lights complete the sporty, modern look.
Interior
Inside, the 1 Series has been thoroughly updated with a slicker design. The cabin is now completely leather-free in line with trends in the industry for more sustainable interior finishes. There’s a Veganza/Alcantara upholstery mix available for M Sport models. Newly designed sports seats come as standard, with heating included up front.
Dominating the dashboard is BMW’s Curved Display, which finally makes its way into the 1 Series. Alas, there’s no more iDrive controller on the centre console, but a redesigned gear selector. Overall, the interior of the 1 Series does feel special for a compact hatchback, underlining its premium price tag and positioning in the market.
Practicality
The BMW 1 Series remains a compact car inside and while the new model offers reasonable space for passengers, rear legroom is still snug compared with larger family cars. The boot measures just 300 litres in the 120, which is smaller than some rivals in this class. There are Isofix child seat fixtures on the two outer rear seats and the front passenger seat.
Driving
Under the skin, BMW has put significant effort into improving the 1 Series’ already good driving dynamics with a more rigid body structure and other optimisations of the chassis. The previous generation was the first 1 Series to go from rear wheel drive to front wheel drive – quite controversially so at the time. While it doesn’t have the same handling magic as the 3 Series for example, it’s still very much up for a hoon should you find yourself on a deserted mountain road with its meaty steering and athletic body control through bends.
The 1.5-litre three cylinder turbo petrol engine has 170hp, 280Nm torque and 0-100km/h is 7.8 seconds. It’s paired to a seven-speed automatic gearbox and now features mild hybrid technology for improved efficiency and responsiveness. My average fuel consumption was 6 litres per 100 kilometres so very respectable for a petrol-powered hatch.
Refinement is also excellent and it’s a smooth, comfortable drive despite the M Sport riding a tad firmer.
M Sport models add an Adaptive M Chassis as standard, lowering the car by 8mm, alongside sport steering and 18-inch alloys. For keen drivers, optional 19-inch wheels and an M Sport braking system are also available.
The range-topping BMW M135 xDrive brings all-wheel drive, more power and even sharper dynamics. It uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 300hp and 400Nm of torque, sprinting to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds. It also gets M-specific styling cues like horizontal bars in the grille, unique mirror caps, quad exhausts and 19-inch forged alloys. The M Technology package adds upgraded suspension, lightweight components and powerful M Compound brakes, making it a true hot hatch contender.
BMW 1 Series Price
In Ireland, the BMW 120 is priced from €43,065 for the Sport, from €45,785 for the M Sport and from €50,700 for the M Sport Pro. The flagship M135 is priced from €71,435.
Is the BMW 1 Series a good car?
The new BMW 1 Series builds on the strengths of its predecessor with sharper styling, a modernised interior and more refined driving experience. While its compact size and 300-litre boot won’t suit every buyer, it makes up for it with its premium feel, plush interior and driving dynamics that set it apart from rivals. If you’re looking for a stylish, sporty hatchback, the new BMW 1 Series is one of the most desirable options on the market.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
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