The most important innovation in the new BMW Series 1, is hidden beneath: after three generations, the Bavarian manufacturer’s compact sedan is adopting the group’s rear-wheel platform – that of the Mini Clubman and Countryman, and of the BMW Series 2 Active Tourer and X1 – thus creating space for passengers and luggage. The update has not had disruptive effects on the car’s design, even if a careful eye would probably notice that the bonnet is more rounded and higher than the previous version’s.
But these are minor details: the Series 1 has not lost its sporty, sleek lines. The new front end is characterised by the strong presence of the central grille, which is larger than the last generation’s. For the first time, the “double kidney” is joined at the fulcrum and is framed by the LED headlights that have a narrower and longer shape. The profile is dynamic, with a line that passes under the door handles and reaches the back end, characterised by a conical shape that offers the impression of greater width, all to the advantage of its presence on the road.
Driving it in Italy, between Milan and Piacenza, the Series 1 confirmed its merits as a comfortable, premium sedan, but one that knows how to thrill on the curves thanks to a precise steering wheel, lively engines, and a good dynamic. There is a lot of technology on board, around which the interiors’ forms revolve. At the centre of the dashboard in front of the driver there are two 10.24” displays from which all the car’s multimedia functions are managed. The air vents have an octagonal design and frame a small screen where all the main climate control information is displayed and can be controlled via comfortable physical buttons. Behind, you travel more comfortably: there is an extra 3.3 cm of leg space, with a 380-litre baggage compartment.
