Should You Buy a BMW 1 SERIES? (Test Drive & Review 118i Sport)

[@HighPeakAutos]

Before buying any used car, it's important to check it's history. Use the link below for a 10% discount or Discount Code HIGHPEAK : www.carvertical.com/gb/landing/v3?a=HighPeakAutos&b=38b26e3a&voucher=highpeakautos

[@haroonmalek1971]

L

[@nikdeutsche]

Mate the 118i that you're driving is one of the most shittiest basic version you're driving probably with not even a single add ons , make sure you try the 118i 1.6 turbo model with decent amount of add on features then you'll realise what a car this is, there is option with 118i to choose a different color interiors as well which is not available compared to its competitor, go back to driving Ford fiestas and Toyota's.

[@Andri.Prokopenko]

Got a 2016 120d after 2 years of 2016 Audi A3 sedan ownership. There is just no point of comparing them. A3 is a Golf, spoiled in some places. BMW suspension, driver position, seats, steering - are just on the other level. One series shows an incredible balance between comfort and handling. It is such a good all-rounder. If I had a lot of money to buy other cars, I would still leave my 120d as daily.

[@doubleL_S]

1000%

[@doubleL_S]

Matt is a snob who doesn't like good driving cars 😅

[@steppenwolf1872]

The Golf is better than all of those because all the people think they are not good cars.

[@vassilisk.5067]

Totally agree with you!!!👏👏👏

[@agaafear]

I agree. The A3 has a lovely interior finish but the 1 series feels great!

[@RTR1879]

My wife had a 2013 120d M Sport, and it was amazingly reliable. Serviced properly and it never missed a beat for 8 years. Brakes and tyres were all it ever needed.

[@helenasakac3611]

i just bought 2013 120d m sport as my first car and this comment means a lot😂🥰

[@Aaron19987]

@@helenasakac3611make sure you get the timing chain looked at. If it’s the n47 engine it’s known for bad timing chain issues, unfortunately way too common. I just missed out on that with my 2015 b47 118d. So far with 9 years passed I haven’t heard anything about common timing chain issues with my f20 LCI

[@BrunoHsdc]

That’s not a review, that’s a straight up rant.

[@kenw1295]

Had a 2015 F20 116i Sport for about 5 years, not a single problem, enjoyable to drive, boot space excellent, comfortable, manual gear box nice, quality interior compared to others at the time and Media system a delight. Only down side was rear space which was not a priority for us. Now in the hands of my Grandson who has not had any problems either.

[@markrobby7136]

Me too. I think the Man is dishonest looking at ownership reviews that are very great

[@Gudlief]

Good comments that back up many others I’ve seen else where.

[@kenw1295]

@@Gudlief Just goes to show you need to look around when viewing YT car reviews just as you do with buying cars.

[@lukewokeywoos]

Love the honesty and transparency through and through. I have always looked forward to your videos as honestly takes away my stress and worries I’ve had since the start of the year (me my girlfriend and baby was homeless). I’m definitely not one too look for sympathy but genuinely gets me through and takes the edge off even for 10/20mins and motivates me too achieve more and get one of these big boy engines you speak of as i have a 1.6 power 🤣🚙

[@HighPeakAutos]

Sorry to hear that. Hope you’re back on your feet now. All the best.

[@johnb8956]

@@HighPeakAutos Hi Matt, have you seen these spam messages? There’s even one in this reply chain. Seem to be responding to every comment

[@mattlawton4715]

@@johnb8956 if you leave a comment to them they delete it They are all over.

[@johnb8956]

@@mattlawton4715 damn

[@mattlawton4715]

@@johnb8956 I have txt things like no thanks this is a scam in the comments then they just deleted it. Try it see if your gets deleted.

[@lilturk1756]

Your honesty is what’s taken you a long way in this game and will take you a lot further, had a 1 series a couple years back on a 62 plate and was nothing but trouble from start to finish dodgy electrics + turbos etc. solid review as always

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks!

[@smwatson1512]

Bought an M140i recently, absolutely belting. Love it. No interest in anything more "normal".

[@HighPeakAutos]

They’re so good! I want one

[@AutoAbsolute]

Great video as always. I had a 64 plate 116i M-Sport F20 in white, was one of my first cars and it was great, 0 issues during 4 years of ownership and got a nice trade in value 5 years ago for it.

[@onpoint357]

Not everybody cares about 6 cylinder speed and power bro. Some people are happy just cruising in a premium brand car. Alot of people have powerful cars and never push them anyway. They just have them for the sake of having a fast powerful car.

[@larrypoulton6401]

I am just about to pick up a secondhand 2015 116D. both my wife and I loved it, inside and out. It's been looked after and has an almost 100% MOT pass history. We found the 1.5L engine more than enough for us on the sedate Welsh roads. I find it amusing that normally, you would expect loads of negative comments with horror stories but the majority of comments seem to be coming to its defence. Maybe you misjudged us or maybe you misjudged the car.

[@Kofi_Mensahs_BurnerAccount]

Cmon mate Kia Proceed, Ford Focus? They’re not in the 1 Series’ league. Some buy it only for the badge yes but some of us buy it because A: we’re on a sensible budget and we know what we’re buying and B: maybe the parking situation at home doesn’t allow for parking a 3 or 5 Series and only a hatchback will fit. They’re great cars if the previous owners have looked after them and that’s the sting in the tail. Most don’t. My one is an E87 and it’s been well looked after. I’ve continued the trend and it’s the only car in my almost 6 years of driving that hasn’t gone bad like my Focus MK2 did in only 9 months.

[@davidmarshall5596]

You're a credit not just to yourself but the automotive trade giving honest advice & opinion & i like that👌more if these type of reviews please 🙏

[@adeelhussain3976]

Iv got a 2012 f20 1 series and have owned it for the past 6 years and have never had any issues. It's been so reliable and still going strong at 130k miles.

[@karimtemri1664]

I just got a 2019 too

[@Pawcio2115]

What engine?

[@paulweikert4285]

I bought a pre-owned 2017 118i Sport 5 years ago. I've not had a single issue with it (perhaps luckily for me after watching this video 😉). Still drives as it did on day 1. No annoying creaks or squeaks! Feels solid. It is an auto which I think may be preferable in this car. I've driven a number of BMs and there are similarities in the drive so I think they did a decent job of it. I did test drive the equivalent 2017 A-class at the time and I thought it was awful. I also thought that A3, whilst refined, was a bit boring and forgettable (albeit nicer interior).

[@neeklauw]

I would echo this. I have a 2016 116d that I got from now and its been ridiculously reliable. Much more so than my previous BMWs.

[@Kelveron]

I like Matt's reviews, but I thought it was a bit odd he is slagging off the 1series for being dull, when at the same recommending the Lexus CT and Kia Proceed, which have got to be among the dullest vehicles produced over the recent years!

[@Hammertime4404]

100% agree, I’ve just left basically the same comment as you above!

[@paulweikert4285]

@@Kelveron yes and the CT auto gearbox is awful in the Lexus.

[@paulweikert4285]

I guess we all have a car in mind that we just don't get along with. Mine is the Honda Jazz (mums car 😊)..

[@Gizmo5h1t3]

Love how Mat is brutally honest in his reviews. I had a 118d se on a 2014 with no issues whatsoever, so I guess I was lucky. Decent little cars, but again, listen to Mat guys, he knows his stuff

[@kevinrtres]

NO, all the other comments on the F20s shows that he is dead wrong. I concur with those comments.

[@garethprytherch9623]

My son has a 2016 120d m sport auto and tbh it’s pretty quick and auto box is superb. Looks better as a 3dr although as you say not as practical as the 5dr. Facelift version with led lights makes a huge improvement too 👍

[@vviiper]

I picked up an 55 plate 130i in good spec a month ago, with 174k miles on it, good service history and it's a fantastic car

[@holop100]

So have the car? How is/was it

[@vviiper]

@holop100 still have it, almost at 190k and it has been solid

[@Mike-br8zt]

I had one for a few years. It was an auto and fully loaded (Australian version). We had no issues with it. Great car to drive around Sydney (North shore). Did not work as a family car so we sold it.

[@amato5232]

Ah Matt I think that's a harsh one. I've had my 13 plate 118d M Sport for over a year. Picked it up for £7k before the prices went nuts, 68k, with full history, 2 new tyres and new discs and pads all round. In 15 months it's only needed a window regulator. I've had a same age Focus ST, my folks have an A3 and my in laws have the ceed. It's been miles more reliable than the ST, maybe a little bit down in the Audi interior but it was miles cheaper. The ceed felt so cheap in comparison. The complaint about getting into reverse is the same on the 3 series. usually find myself on the same level as you, but I really like my 1 series.

[@tomaspiscicelli3288]

I agree, it’s a car people buy for the badge. My grandma has a 118i LCI 2 (2018). Personally I don’t like the B38 turbo 3 cyl, BUT it’s more reliable than the 1.6 THP the earlier models had. I’d recommend the newer engines (B38, B48 petrol, B37 and B47 diesel) with the auto transmission, it’s a ZF 8 speed, bulletproof. The earlier models were as unreliable as an L322 V8 Range Rover no matter the engine nor the transmission you may choose. Almost forgot, don’t ever go X drive.

[@seanglossop4777]

I've got the 218i, same B38 3-cyl engine manual and it's got quite enough power, especially in sport mode

Nice name

[@jackdove5021]

See I love the simplicity of the 1 series. I especially like the 1st generation. I think it’s the nicest looking hatchback of that generation. I have a 118D and other than it not being quick it’s the best car I’ve owned. Better than my old mk5 golf. Better than my mk2 and mk3 Seat Leon. I would say in the price brackets it the best bang for your buck

[@stephenlane9168]

Another good video Matt. Valid points throughout. Great pensioner car who would cherish it and treat it well like a family member

[@bn1studio429]

And have his trousers taken down on a regular basis by the friendly BMW dealer

[@dtpapa1290]

I had a 16 plate 125D it was excellent and rather quick! Granted it has the ZF gearbox, which is fab!

[@akhilpillay4262]

The 2017 118i with the 3 cylinder. It sounds awesome and feels great anytime, anywhere. The only gripe I have with it is the power (sometimes).

[@karimtemri1664]

I have the same car. hp is OK but I guess anything feels fast after an old renault citycar

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

My friend’s dad had a mk1 1 series. I couldn’t fit in the back of it when i was 5. So he got a 2009 5 series and he’s happy with that

[@andrewryder6780]

Honest car salesman that makes a change. 🤣😂

[@leeellis6738]

Have had my 2104 116d ED Business Edition since 2018. No problems at all so far. Lovely spec including Pro Nav ,leather, auto main beam. Fitted 18 inch BBS alloys and lowering springs. Great car, remapped to a reasonable 160bhp and 320nm torque. Will be upgrading to a 330d Touring next year

[@dwoolwichpoly9086]

That 330d touring is a beast. Hopefully you get a nice deal on it

[@LizardYup]

Best car reviewer on KZbin. Honest and witty, keep it up mate. I haven't missed a video since you had 22k subscribers

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you so much 👍

[@robnguitar]

Thanks for the review, appreciate your honesty. In fairness I think just as many people buy A class merc’s for the badge alone, but at least the 1 series model you review is rear wheel drive. I’m considering a 118d to replace a 320d saloon due to obvious lower running costs and can’t cope with the impractical boot much longer with lack of folding seats! If I could afford to run a beamer with a straight six petrol engine I would but for me so far the 4 pot diesels are fine for every day driving.

[@ihsanpenny9945]

I have a 120d, 2010 - timing chain was done. Usual wear on other things, shocks, control arms. Clutch and flywheel needed doing when timing chain was done. Been driving it like stink since then and not an issue.... oh, EGR went. I did the timing chain preventatively with a good BMW indy here in Dublin, Ireland. that was 60k miles ago. I service it every 4000 miles myself. Timing chain doesn't make a squeak now even on very cold start. Personally, I think they're a great car. Defo better than a VW golf TDI as RWD. Major issues been dealt with on mine - will get wear and tear prob on suspension components but engine and gearbox solid.

[@joebloggs4191]

As a former owner of a F20 be it the LCI model I have to disagree with much of what you said. It is a cracking little car and with right engine it can be reliable and entertaining and I am not just talking about the M140i. I would avoid any with the 3 cylinder Mini engine in it though. It is the best to drive compared to the A Class or A3, the A class might have a snazzier interior but the quality is better in the F20. The only real downside is less room inside compared to its rivals. Should add mine was the 7 speed ZF auto which is a brilliant box and personally I wouldn’t touch a manual in any BMW or Mercedes, these cars are just better suited to auto boxes.

[@seanglossop4777]

It's a BMW engine which is used in Minis rather than the BMW "using a Mini engine". The 3-cyl 1.5L petrol is more than adequate and produces quite enough power for everyday driving.

[@xyz-dy5jf]

Love reading the comments! So many insights and experiences!

[@Lord_Holmes]

I have a 116i sport f20. I totally fcking love it 😂😂👌

[@testvideo44]

I've got a 2011 120D Msport, I like it, great to drive, reliable, a good car and decent looking.

[@dimiterdakov]

I am a happy owner of a 2017 118i with the B38 three cylinder. Nearing 60,000 miles and it's like I bought it yesterday. Peppy enough, interessting engine note and the auto does wonders with the engine. The only thing I am super pedantic about is changing the oil every 4000 miles, especially on a BMW.

[@mlnd18]

Finally the 1 series👍, agree with a most of your comments apart from reliability. I have done 135k miles on my 118d and never gave me any issues, maybe I got lucky😊

[@jonathonedwards6741]

It’s this sort of car that makes me forget the badge. I ended up buying a swift sport that has been near bulletproof, sure the badge isn’t worth much but the car is really nice to drive and is uber reliable. Qualities that should be in every car.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I agree.

[@talksr]

I have a 1 Series, 2018 120D auto. 46k, motorway miles, no issues at all so far. Your gearbox comments worried me but I think it is more manuals. I service mine every year or when it chimes at me at my local BMW dealer. They do service plans from £20 per month so you don't have a large servicing bill when you take it. Tyres and brakes I do elsewhere on account of the extortionate prices BMW charge. Other than my 59 plate Ford Focus, this has been the best car I had but sadly Sadiq Khan put an end to my Focus with the UELZ.

[@droetkaar]

Bought a 2017 118i with an automatic gearbox and its the perfect car for me!

[@j.vdegtt]

I wasn’t expecting to be all roasted about my car when I clicked this video lol. I drive a 2009 e87 118i with the M pack which I think looks beautiful. Never had any issues with it either. Whenever I drive my fathers bmw and I jump back into my car I do miss a big engine though, its almost like driving with the parkingbrake still on 😂

[@TiagoBentoRealEstatePortugal]

Great review. Absolutely spot on . I had one of these for a year as a company car after having 2 golfs .. a 16, and 20 plate and can say it felt a lot more sluggish then both of them and was instantly dissapointed when i drove it..., the speed only seemed to kick in a lil more from 35-50mph , the interior felt really dull, ECO mode felt fake , didnt really save more , and the motorway driving experience felt very shaky and quite unsafe... speakers wernt great...was really dissapointed as it was the first bmw i tried.. sport mode was a lil fun but even so nothing AMAZING...

[@P.Galore]

I really liked the first generation because it was different looking from the other Series; This generation brings back that front end look. In the US we got the 135i which has plenty of power. I like it!

[@Brian-om2hh]

The 135i and 140i are here in the UK, but not that many around..... Prestige German car buyers in the UK normally want a larger car to go with a large engine

[@bensmithkent22]

@@Brian-om2hh not that many? You sure.

[@saronasam]

Well, going through a stack of these comments it seems majority of people owning these cars are favourable to them. Me personally have had a 2012 F20 1.8d from new and like many on here my only cost has been tyres and brake pads, it's now on 180k kilometers, a wonderful car to drive. Oil change every 15k kilometers completes the service history, take care of this car and it's a true winner.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Ok good to hear

[@edwinhamm-h8s]

15k is way too long especially with a diesel

[@ged3680]

Good morning Matt, an excellent, honest review that has put me off every buying one . Ged

[@seanglossop4777]

I've got the F22 218i which has the 3 cylinder 1.5L petrol and I must say when you put it in sport mode it gives quite enough power even at 134hp (although I could get it remapped to nearly 170hp). Funny you mention about the young driver thing, I'm only 20 but I'm booking it in for an oil and brake fluid change next week :D I should also add that at just over 40k miles and it being a 66 plate nothing has gone wrong so far touch wood.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Good stuff. Keep looking after it and it might be fine

[@tapportugalpilot]

Might 😂

[@tapportugalpilot]

I’ve got an F22 2 series with the 2.0l diesel and it’s given me all sorts of issues, turbo change, dpf change, oil leaks, holes in the engine manifold, break change and I’ve not even got around to the timing changing or the 8 speed box 😂😖

[@seanglossop4777]

@@tapportugalpilot What's the mileage out of interest?

[@tapportugalpilot]

@@seanglossop4777 110,000

[@markbur1503]

My Wife has a 2012 118d Convertible. Its a base model ie cloth seats plastic steering wheel etc. However it looks ok and with the top down even better. Its definitley not fast buts for a soft top its quiet. The main positive thing is economy, around town around 45 mpg, on a recent trip to France at 130kmh it still does nearly 60mpg. So far no issues after nearly 8 years of ownership.

[@markbur1503]

@Joe mamma We had to change the Battery but apart from service parts no problems!

[@chriskonte1909]

Agreed I really gotta say these BMW 4-cylinder diesels are not comparable to an A-Class of that time..

[@hpmann77]

Interesting review. I drive a 125i (B48) m sport auto and cannot fault it. So far it’s been reliable and on the right road it’s a blast to drive. Interior might look bland to some, but it’s solid with no rattles or creaks. ZF8 gearbox is awesome.

[@Ztxk94]

Looking at gettin one in the uk, Funny how rare the 125i’s actually are. Great that they have a zf8 box, rwd and a punchy b48 motor w 224 stock🤝🏽

[@j4k3yyy]

I'll never buy a 1 series, but Matt has made a video so I'm watching

[@stuartcochrane4004]

I had a 2019 F21 with the 1.5 had it for 3 years and just over 30,000 miles I didn't have any problems I quite enjoyed it tbh. Now I have the new Kia Sportage love it even more

[@MrJeronimo94]

I had a 2013 120d. Love it very good on fuel an very reliable. Had it for about 6 years and i never had a single issue with it. Sold it to buy a 430i Convertible.

[@JJ-mg1yx]

You have to respect this guy, Matt knows where the money is....

[@col4627]

My missus loves hers. Msport 118d auto, soft white leather seats, cheap insurance, £20+ road tax (my 520d is £530 ish). Apart from the washer bottle clogged up, never any problems. Wouldn't want one myself, but it has it's place.

[@annekarice1587]

180d 😅

[@geoffcrisp7225]

I have a 2014 116i auto 5 door bought new, its been well looked after by me with 43,000 miles on the clock and regularly serviced by BMW. Its been very reliable with no problems between services. I down sized from a 3 series and do miss the xexon headlights I had before because the halogens really let it down on country roads. True its not roomy in the rear and the boot could be bigger, but for two people its enough most of the time. The 8 speed auto is a gem and makes the car a pleasure to drive. The ride is firm on run flats but road holding is good. If I change it it will be another BMW auto which I have driven on business and privately for 23 years.

[@JDCALDECOTT]

Love the E82 1 Series Coupes, something about them! Previous compacts in the E46 and E36 look horrible, but to me it feels like the 1 Series Coupe is finally a good looking compact.

[@looneytune6955]

My bro in law had a 135i and that was a right laugh. Needed new undercrackers with that backwheel drive when you booted it. Swapped it for a convertible remapped 435d which was arguably the perfect car but you can't replicate that feeling of being on an uncontrollable sledge in the wet like the 1 series.

[@Finerdetailsuk]

Completely agree, I had a 65 plate 116D and had nothing but issues. Avoid at all costs so much so it actually put me off the brand and haven't had a BMW since, now have a much more reliable range rover 😂

[@HighPeakAutos]

Something like a 530d or a 645i would change your mind about the brand

[@ahyaan2552]

@@HighPeakAutos i would say 640d over the petrols because they have all sorts of issues

[@HighPeakAutos]

@@ahyaan2552 true but when they’re working they’re glorious

[@ahyaan2552]

@@HighPeakAutos yeah had one fly by me sounded quite nice

[@user-te1le7ck6b]

Your a nutter , hope you got deep pockets

[@michaelbooth6007]

I've had two 120D's autos in the last ten years and never got anyway near 70 mpg and I drive sensibly on the North of Scotland's empty roads! 52 or 53 nearer the mark. I'm currently driving a 220i auto coup which is averaging 37.5 mpg so not near BMW'S figures. I've had 4 small BM's in my time and all have been reliable. I've always changed the oil annually and had a major service every two years. The footwell on the one series manual is cramped and the pedals are offset, the auto solves this problem.

[@Bbill2k2]

Had a first gen 123D M Sport as a daily and work car. Covered 23k in a year sold it with over 140k on. Never had an issue, pretty nippy and 60MPG

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

I like the newer versions. I found the 1st and 2nd generation were not great looking but the 3rd is really impressive.

[@danmorrissey449]

I have a 2019 118i Sport. I switched from a Golf as had nothing but problems with its electrics. I do agree that the rear is smaller compared to others in its class but for what I use it for its perfect. I test drove an A class, A3 and Fiesta and found the BMW to be best for handling and comfort. The A class felt to cheep and the A3 was very boring to drive compared to the BMW

[@littleblackcloud86]

I second this. I test drove an A-Class 180d at the same time as my 120i M-Sport LCI, and the A-Class drove way worse, and felt much cheaper inside. Seemed to have poorly set-up damping too.

[@tjololot3761]

The 2nd generation F20 is a blast to drive. You simply do a stage 1 software upgrade to the ECU and here you are with a 200HP powerful motor. Other than that the customization options are really endless if one can afford them. M performance interior and exterior parts are available at a reasonable price giving the opportunity to literally transform the F20 to anything one wishes. My experience driving this car since 2013 is that it can be an excellent cruiser when travelling long distances and extremely fun when I choose to drive more sporty

[@benshakespeare268]

Did you get the ECU upgrade through a deanship or specialist ECU tuner?

[@tjololot3761]

@@benshakespeare268 I did it through a local specialist tuner here in Greece and very soon I'm about to do a stage 2....(already upgraded the stock intercooler and downpipe)

[@Brian-om2hh]

A friend of mine - who always buys new BMW's - had a 3 series about 12 or 13 years ago, which had it's gearbox replaced at less than a year old..... Plus he's had others which have needed all sorts of things doing while still fairly new...He bought an M5, which he specced from new. That car gave problems virtually from new. He had lots of suspension parts replaced under warranty, plus there were electrical gremlins too. Me? I normally buy just ordinary secondhand bread & butter cars. Never had to replace an engine, a gearbox, or suspension parts in 40+ years......

[@alexhiggins7307]

I know what you mean by the 4-cyl, 6-cyl thing. I was looking at getting a 320d after having a go of my mates 420d. Thank God I got a 330d Xdrive after. The performance is like light and day, especially with a map.

[@HighPeakAutos]

They're like chalk and cheese

[@alexhiggins7307]

@@HighPeakAutos night I meant! 😂👊 Yes mate, beauty of a car, the torque is linear and it pulls like a train whilst its like sitting on your couch in the house.

[@joelsmith9922]

I was toying between 1 of these and a 520d, as a work mate sings praise of their 1 series, very glad I went for the 5!

[@stevec1097]

I’ve owned two 3 series BM’s and they were THE easiest cars to sell-on privately, both times the first person to view the car was completely blown away by the whole ‘BMW’ thing and they’d made up their mind to buy the car before opening the driver’s door. I still chuckle at people who buy those really old X5’s and 3 series and parade around as if they’ve ‘made it’ in life and yet the car is rolling on cheap ditch-finder tyres and hasn’t seen any fresh oil for years 😮

[@eqdproductions477]

I've had a 16 plate 118D M Sport for around 8 months with zero issues so far (B47 engine), also with a 4 series in the family with the same engine covering over nearly 40k miles in the past year, again zero issues. I'm sure if not properly serviced and looked after issues may occur though, also the diesels are great remapped with a stage 1 (Done by somene properly) if you want some extra poke. My previous 07 Mini however was a completely different story. Great video Matt, maybe we're just lucky to have 2 reliable engines in 2 different cars. Personally I haven't heard many horror stories with the B47, but the N47 predecessor is a different story

[@sabinandrei2807]

I have a 116i from 2012, just passed 150k km. I've had the car since last year (2021) and I've driven it 95% of the time within the city , 10k km. I believe it's perfect for a city car and an occasionally longer drive (400 km). It really depends on what you need it for and if you drive it correctly. I'd recommend the car to anyone that needs to drive around the city.

[@abdul-otf]

Just to clarify what’s 150 kilometres in miles?

[@abdul-otf]

I would say 150k km is quite low for a 2012, once it goes to 100k miles is when it gets interesting

[@fergalfoley6718]

Thank you Matt for an honest review 👍

[@originalswede]

I have a 118i, almost had it for a year now and no issues yet atleast. But it's been serviced regularly and previous owners were only older people who as you say probably had it for it's size. I understand what you mean with the engine I will most likely stage 1 tune it so it gets up to about 210hp and 300 nM. I do like that it's easy to switch out the infotainment, I got an android auto/apple carplay screen and it was plug and play, idrive system still works to control it, really brings the car into 2022 imo. Great video as always Matt!

[@micaelllaluum]

first time buyer here would you recommend getting a 118i as a car

[@originalswede]

@@micaelllaluum 2 years in it has only had 1 issue where the wire from the door handle snapped in the dead of winter. Depending on what you want from a car it's really good.

[@Stallzyx]

Skipped through to the engine section as thought this might have the same 1.5 as the Mini Coopers etc around the similar era, but looks like they came a little later in the 1 series. Ended up watching the rest of the review though because of your honesty and just general entertaining review style lol

[@melvinjo1596]

With a BMW 1 Series is in general, across the bord a sportier and more driver and driving focused car than all the other cars mentioned. Having actually driven all of the other cars mentioned exept for the Lexus i can say that the suspension setup is firmer than on the others and the engine setup feels a little bit more alive and agile. The 114i is the exception but thats the one that you should chiptune anyways because the 114, 116, 118 and even some 120s have the same engine. Just different software

[@stoff3r]

This dude claims he have an 1.8litre, do they excist?

[@melvinjo1596]

@@stoff3r Nope. Only 1.5, 1.6 and 2.0 engines on the petrol and the diesel engines and the 3 liter in the 135/140

[@ZA-ey4dl]

We've been waiting your review on 1st series for a while. Thanks

[@tonyc3995]

My Dad had this version then the next generation both from new, (still has it) had no issues with either.

[@guyfairbairn6498]

Interesting - some of it fair. I got a 3 yr old 118d Sport this year - as I purchased on PCP, it was cheaper per month than an Astra or Focus as the residuals are good. So far so good, enjoyable to drive, punchy, economical, very good driving position, i-drive is great . Rear is a bit tight on legroom, but on balance happy so far..... but yes I would love to have the 325i 6 cylinder I had in the early 2000's, but without the fuel bills!!

[@Hermantrueman]

My uncle who is a mechanic but now retired said bmw 6 silender engine bullet proof 4 silender engine money maker

[@suhailshabir9305]

I love my 2015 bmw1 series diesel fun drive reliable and fuel efficient

[@seanmorgan4099]

would agree re build quality and reliability. I had a 2011 135i Coupe - always had warning lights on the dashboard and seemed to be forever getting it fixed by my mechanic. I gave up on it after 16 months and just 4,000 kms. It had done around 100,00 kms (60,000 miles) when I bought it and felt like it had been used and abused by previous owners. Was happy to see the back of it

[@samcoppack9012]

Your metaphors are actually hilarious 🤣

[@magnetau]

I own a 1 series 116d Efficient Dynamics for the last 7 years, it has now 164 thousand km, and it runs with a chip tuning from 85 thousand km, it was and still is faultless, if you service it in a timely manner it shouldn't cause any problems or issues, it don't believe it's in itself an unreliable car, maybe bad maintenance, and also don't agree that you need a big engine version to put a smile on your face on a twisty road, but that is my own opinion. Cheers

[@lgdelgado]

Hi. Regarding chip tuning, did you had to delete EGR and/or DPF? Thanks

[@garysnell47]

E39 for me. Maybe because I’m old, had the pleasure of driving a early 2000s 530i there just magical machines. The lost era .

[@pablonavaridas3302]

I have a 2018 120i f20 lci 2, with heated seats, the bigger touch screen, apple CarPlay and manual transmission. With the M Sport shadow edition it looks so smart. It’s been so reliable to me, not having a single problem in 50.000 km and runs beautiful. It has some other extras, and with a proper spec, I can tell you that is better than half of the bmw fleet out there

[@Ztxk94]

Heard nothing but good things from owners having the new b48💨

[@RS_]

I got a 2014 116d M Sport ( 108bhp) remapped 3 years ago( at 55000miles) to nearly 200bhp . So far - zero problems ! And today odometer shows 110000 miles . BTW this is my second BMW 1 series and I love them! And i love them for how they feel on the road. Any BMW can be dull ( i mean 1,3,5 series ) if you get it in low spec and least powerfull motor. Imagine 520i ( with 1.6 engine) or 518d with 140bhb and much heavier than 1 series

[@oselgh1545]

I see one for sale has 80k mils the same that you have , do you recommend to me or not ? thanx

[@The1Aroma]

My dad has a 2013 BMW 118d Sport 5dr Auto RWD and it's been extremely reliable at also bang on 110k miles and we've only spent money on mots/services etc. So I'm not sure what Mat's on about 😂.

[@Albert_XXI]

Certainly anyone would trade the "prince" 4cil 1.6 N13 for the 6cil 3.0 B58 but the little "prince" it's far from dull, besides it is intended for regular use ,with some extra arguments if needed. F20 2013 ZF auto 8 speed transmission with torque converter. ZERO issues in 10 yrs. An absolute joy to drive in all types of use, outstanding steering , outstanding transmission, with a steady 7.5l/100kms.

[@cybershot123]

Nice video Matt honest as ever

[@carlfreeland5077]

Matt I’d like to see you review a Japanese Import car, Estima, Prius, Alphard etc. and talk about issues advantages, disadvantages, sourcing and resale values.

[@ikuturso7570]

The thing is that the listed alternatives (A-series,A3, CT) cost 20-50% (A3 to CT) more for same age & mileage. One can do quite a few extra repairs for that money if need be.

[@igaldins]

I have 2014 118i twin turbo, 170 hp. 8 gears automatic. This car is fast as hell. In sport mode it is going like a rocket 🚀 Steering is enjoyable Interior is not luxury

[@chuckypud]

Another great video making Very very happy I stopped my wife buying a 2015 116d 44k mileage one last month for £12k and pushed her towards a 2012 mark 2 Audi TT diesel instead for 5k less

[@agaafear]

Agree that it’s not a good looking car but that generation of the 1 series tops the WhatCar reliability survey. The 1.5 3 cylinder is very reliable and are surprisingly good to drive. Issues with gearboxes often come to user use, like not waiting until the car has fully stopped before engaging R and many people just don’t maintain their car. If you see cheap tyres on a premium used car, walk away! And, unlike the A class, the interior of the 1 series doesn’t creak and rattle.

[@Hermantrueman]

Honest review thanks

[@baronvonjo1929]

I find it so weird how the luxury brands in Europe have moved down market there and entered weird segments. Now they are sometimes the top sellers in some countries and beat out mainstream cars.

[@danpowell2917]

Gotta point out that you can only stream via BT if the model supports it, the one you're driving supports BT calls only so best to bring your CD collection. As a previous Golf owner and current 3 series owner, I'd say go for the Golf it's much more fun, good quality and is unpretentious.

[@flybobbie1449]

Drove one as courtesy car from BMW, drove better than my Z4. Slick gear box and better steering.

[@TheSweetasanut]

Nice vlog what a relief after the Beatle

[@towerdave4836]

Had a 2012 125 D Auto. It was quick, economical, comfortable and…….a bit characterless. In fact an ideal business tool. Took me to most remote areas of the UK in comfort, fault free, great on good A and B roads and was the M sport. I’d have another if I had a need for that type of motoring.

[@charlessoko6387]

Solid and honest review mate 👍👍💯

[@stagman244]

Quality filmed video Matt - if you see what I mean 👍🏼

[@Gary-gt1wi]

Got to say it's a spot-on review of the series 1 BMW my son had one a beautiful looking on a 16 plate the last owner must of been Freddie Kruger, the ECU cost £3000 amongst other gremlins in the cellar then it set on fire, luckily Arnold Clark took it back and had the local vicar in to rid it of all demon's, this car was a write off I suggest you should, you have been warned !!

[@kieronoreilly7589]

Honest as always 👍🏼😊