Buying a used hatchback? I've driven 47 used hatchback cars – this BMW 1 Series is by far a standout
The quintessential hatchback is, of course, the Golf, which in all its incarnations has delivered – but the BMW pips it, and I'll explain why.
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I'd always associated BMWs with committed middle managers driving company cars. A few minutes behind the wheel of the BMW Series 1 M Sport changed all that.
I'm not going to say that the VW Golf has had its day (or make a joke that the current version of the car is as unfashionable as the sport, as that would be cruel).
But the BMW Series 1 does everything you need a hatch to do – but better than the others.
With people ditching the convertibles for a hatchback, read on to see why the BMW Series 1 is a standout choice for me.
What is a hatchback?
A hatchback is a car with a large rear door that opens to create a large boot space.
Hatchback cars are flexible. You can typically carry 4 or more passengers in comfort.
When you need extra carrying space, you can lower the back seats. (Make sure the passengers aren't in there first.)
The VW Golf pretty much defined what a hatchback is and what it does, and – despite what we've written above – we still love it.
Reviewers know it still does the business, but the Golf spawned a whole lot of imitators – some of which are now ready to challenge for the hatchback king's crown.
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Benefits of a hatchback
Small, manoeuvrable, great handling
Excellent visibility from the large rear window
Sporty looks (especially souped-up variants, including GTI, M Sport, FR, etc.)
Versatile, with space for 4 passengers and luggage
Fold-down seats provide extra carrying capacity
Perfect for families, city drivers or country dwellers
BMW 1 Series: An overview
When you're buying a hatchback, it's 50% heart and 50% head. It's got to look great and have the speed and performance you want.
It's also got to be fuel efficient, reliable and – in these cash-strapped times – affordable.
Let's work through the list.
The BMW 1 Series looks, to me, fantastic. Looks are personal, so feel free to disagree. Parkers call it the best premium hatchback.
The M Sport version goes above and beyond with 18' alloys, a rear spoiler and splitters, as well as a full leather interior and a beast of an engine. (Ticks box)
It's hard to argue with performance. The majority of modern (post-2019) Series 1s are front-wheel drive with either a 3- or 4-cylinder engine.
Front-wheel drive makes more space for luggage at the back without impacting the driving experience, which is impeccable. (Ticks box)
In-car entertainment and tech is top-notch, as you'd expect on a premium BMW. (Ticks box)
It's not a class leader (and real-life returns will vary on your driving style, condition, etc.), but you can expect around 40mpg from an older Series 1. (Ticks box)
The BMW Series 1 was one of only two cars that achieved a 100% reliability rating from WhatCar?. (Ticks box)
Affordable? Check out this round-up of used BMW Series 1 cars for sale.
Buying a used car? Find cars for under £200 per month on Sun Motors here.
Used BMW 1 Series for sale
Here are some of the BMW Series-1s for sale on Sun Motors that piqued our interest…
Great value: BMW 1 SERIES 1.5 118i SE
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This 2018 BMW Series-1 isn't the cheapest on the market at £6,949, but represents something of a bargain.
The mileage is low, with 65,000 miles half that of others on the market. The relatively low use shows up in the condition of the car, which is excellent.
It's a well-presented car – and the good bits don't stop. The 118i SE model is a slightly more premium package (just below M Sport).
The 138 bhp engine is a bit of a beast, but you'll still get almost 40mpg. (Check out the full specs on Parkers.)
If we were looking for a great family runaround that would still turn a few heads, this would be a perfect choice.
M Sport Monster: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport
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BMW M Sport is legendary, with better internal trim, external styling and engine.
If you're buying a BMW, we all want that little badge, don't we? (Forget about the insurance premiums for a minute…)
If comfort, acceleration and speed are important to you, then check out this BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport. Stylish? Absolutely.
You'll get the better body kit, leather interior, and large alloys. It's a superb-looking car.
Under the bonnet, the BMW has a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine that will fly when you put your foot to the floor.
Thinking with the head, it's a good price for a relatively new BMW Series-1 with just 61,000 miles under its belt.
Go on, you know you want it.
Latest model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive
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We've gone for the super powerful and ultra-cool BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive. We're talking about 0-60mph in under 5 seconds.
That's achievable because of the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that knocks out 301 bhp. Ouch.
It's a 4WD car, which delivers good handling, traction and stability. The 2025 model here is the latest version with updated and improved external styling.
This isn't your average motorway munching BMW, but a powerful sports car that's been somehow sanitised a little bit.
Our choice is basically a new car with 100 miles on the clock.
If you buy it, can we have a drive?
Are BMW 1 Series reliable cars?
The BMW 1 Series is the best in class for build quality, which means an ultra-reliable drive, which is vital for families.
OK, things can still go wrong, but buy a good BMW Series 1, and you should be OK.
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