IT took BMW the best part of ten years to come up with a suitable response to the runaway success of the Audi A3.

Before the 1 Series, there was the BMW Compact liftback, a cut down 3-Series that was an unhappy amalgamation of third generation E36 (identical wheelbase, same styling to the A-pillar, truncated rear) and second generation E30 rear suspension.

The front-engine/rear wheel drive layout was unique in the small premium hatchback segment and the Compact sold well in Europe but even BMW’s clever marketing couldn’t disguise the fact that it was a load of old bits dressed up in a new frock. Its replacement, the E46 Compact, addressed many of these concerns but didn’t sell as well as its predecessor (what a fickle lot the motoring public are).

The 1 Series was a new beginning. BMW kept to the front engine/rear drive layout but changed the design. The 1-Series looked as though it had been crafted from the ground up, whereas its predecessors looked like a cut ‘n shut 3-Series.

What’s the story?

The 1 Series arrived in 2004 and was immediately available with a wide selection of medium capacity engines. The range started with the 116i – which was good enough to make the 1-Series fun to drive – and progressed through the 118i, the 116D and the 120D. It took awhile, but in 2012 the five-door 1-Series was joined by a cheaper (and better looking) three door model.

BMW has kept the pedal to the metal introducing new engines (125i, 125D and the low emissions 116D) and new models to keep up with demand.

The range has been extended at the bottom (a 114i is now the cheapest entry point) and the top (the M135i is a real wolf in sheep’s clothing). It’s also possible to buy your 1-Series with four-wheel drive.

The Northern Echo:

What do I get?

Not a lot if you’re shopping in the bargain basement. The entry level models came with four alloy wheels, a steering wheel, electric windows and seats – but not much else. The SE models are a better choice because they have Bluetooth wireless connectivity, a steering wheel with buttons for the audio and telephony and premium in-car entertainment.

Sport models feature bigger wheels and a knobbly ride in town while the Urban trim level gets bigger wheels and some part-leather upholstery in the cabin.

BMW offered a bewildering array of cost-options so it’s possible to find an SE with a better specification than a Sport. Check your potential purchase carefully to make sure it has the options you want.

What goes wrong?

Models built from February to June 2013 had to be recalled for attention to a faulty clutch – make sure the work has been done. Cars with a clutch that’s about to fail are easy to spot because the clutch makes an awful din before it gives up for good.

Some owners have reported mysterious rattles emanating from the doors. The only solution is a strip down and careful rebuild (or just turn the radio up a bit).

Check the headlight units for moisture – some failures have been noted – and speaking of water if a car is regularly parked under a tree in Autumn falling leaves and associated crud can block the front bulkhead drain holes. This stops water draining and can damage the electrics if not spotted.

How much will it cost?

High miles early models are available from about £2,500 privately. We found a clean 116i on an 05 plate with one previous owner for £3,400 – three grand with a spot of haggling. Later models are much more expensive – figure on £13,000 for a two-year-old low miles 116D.

Why it’s great: Good to drive, sky-high image, hatchback versatility.

Why it ain’t: You pay a high price for that badge

 

VERDICT: The 1-Series is a much better entry-level BMW than either of its predecessors. The diesels, in particular, are a winning combination of pace and parsimony.