The BMW 1 Series has been given a mid-cycle refresh along with a revised pricing structure and new model designations.
Australian pricing for the 1 Series update, which will be available later this month, starts at $36,900 plus on-road costs for what is now the 118i (previously 116i, which also cost $36,900).
The different name designation also reflects the increased standard specification of the base model, which will be shared with the 118d diesel variant ($40,300 plus ORCs).
Both ride on 16-inch alloys and gain Sport Line trim and a reversing camera as standard, along with rear park distance control, rain sensor, ConnectedDrive Lifestyle package, cloth trim, satellite-navigation and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The previous 118i is now known as the 120i and also boasts increased specification. It commences from $41,900 and gains 17-inch alloys, interior mirror with anti-dazzle, fog lights, extended climate-control, interior lighting pack, extended Smartphone connectivity, sensatec upholstery, driving assistant and an extended instrument cluster.
Moving up, the $48,900 125i is now fitted with the M Sport package as standard, offering M Sport brakes, suspension, aerodynamics and 18-inch wheels. An eight-speed ‘sports’ automatic transmission, variable sport steering, folding anti-dazzle exterior mirrors, LED headlights, front/rear park distance control and combined alcantara/cloth trim highlight the standard specification.
The M135i remains the flagship, now priced from $62,900 (down from $64,930). Adaptive M suspension, adaptive LEDs, professional sat-nav system, DAB+ digital radio with HiFi loudspeaker system, leather trim and 18-inch M alloys complete the package.
All variants gain ConnectedDrive real-time traffic information at no cost.
Sydney-born designer Calvin Luk was in charge of the refresh, which is said to be the most comprehensive mid-cycle facelift in BMW’s recent history. Luk was briefed to make the 1 Series feel sporty. Via a revised front and grille treatment, along with new rear styling described as ‘athletic’, the refreshed 1 Series’ draws attention to its rear-wheel drive underpinnings, unique in this segment.