Which used BMW 1 Series should you buy?

BMW’s 1 Series first arrived in 2004 and, uniquely for a family hatchback, sent power to the rear wheels, making it feel more sporty than models like the Volkswagen Golf or huge-selling Ford Focus, which were front-wheel-drive.

Driving enthusiasts love this model, thanks to its agile handling and responsive steering, and it’s worth tracking one down if ultimate enjoyment is your goal. 

With the 2019 BMW 1 Series, the company shifted to a more standard front-wheel-drive format with the intention of maximising space for rear passengers.

Thankfully, the car retains the BMW 1 Series’ trademark composure on the road and a comfortable ride, meaning it’s still one of the most satisfying hatchbacks to drive.

On the later model, engines range from economical three-cylinder motors shared with MINI models (MINI is owned by BMW), to larger petrol and diesel engines.

There’s also the 310PS BMW M135i, which features four-wheel drive for containing the significant amount of power on tap, and has the performance to challenge many sports cars.

Read our full BMW 1 Series review

What used BMW 1 Series trim levels are available?

For the BMW 1 Series from 2019 onwards, there is a familiar range of trim levels including favourites such as SE, Sport and M Sport. BMW 1 Series M Sport models are generally the most widely available on BuyaCar.

BMW 1 Series SE

The entry-level BMW 1 Series SE has a very healthy specification, with plenty of kit to keep you interested. The key highlights are detailed below:

• 8.8-inch media display screen
• Apple CarPlay
• Bluetooth
• Air-conditioning
• Autonomous braking
• Drive modes
• Three-spoke leather steering wheel
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Automatic windscreen wipers
• 16-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlamps

BMW 1 Series Sport

Moving up to the BMW 1 Series Sport from the BMW 1 Series SE gives you a number of cosmetic upgrades inside and out designed to make the car look more aesthetically pleasing.

• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Redesigned front and rear bumpers
• High-gloss black trim
• Redesigned grille
• Sports seats
• New upholstery with orange or grey highlight stitching
• Dual-zone climate control

BMW 1 Series M Sport

M Sport spec has long been a popular trim level across a range of the German firm’s models, and the BMW 1 Series M Sport is very popular. It definitely looks the part with an aggressive look, and it is sharper to drive, too, with uprated sports suspension.

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Sporty bodykit
• Leather upholstery
• Black roof lining
• Heated sports seats
• M Sport multi-function steering wheel
• M gearknob for manual cars

BMW 1 Series 128ti

Equipment for the BMW 1 Series 128ti model is based on the BMW 1 Series M Sport, but it bridges the gap between that and the more expensive BMW 1 Series M135i. Unlike its performance sibling, it’s just front-wheel-drive, but uses technology like a limited-slip differential to deliver power more efficiently. 

Power comes from a 2.0-litre petrol engine, and there’s an eight-speed automatic transmission. With 269PS on tap, it’s hardly slow – it’s good for 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds but BMW still reckons you can achieve around 45mpg.

BMW 1 Series M135i

The BMW 1 Series M135i ratchets up the sportiness, and the price, although in exchange you get a healthy dose more power than with other BMW 1 Series models. It feels sporty and luxurious inside.

• Revised front end styling
• Rear spoiler
• M logos
• xDrive four-wheel drive
• 10.3-inch digital display
• Uprated suspension
• Uprated brakes

Is a used BMW 1 Series a good buy?

The latest BMW 1 Series is a fine choice for those looking for a premium-badged hatchback.

It offers decent space, although headroom in the rear can be a little tight as the roofline dips noticeably. The boot compares favourably with its rivals, and matches the 380-litre capacity of the Volkswagen Golf. 

Up front, the cabin feels extremely upmarket, while the dashboard is conveniently angled towards the driver.

Its excellent ability on the road will be the biggest draw for many, though.