2013 BMW 1-series India review, test drive

BMW missed out on the first-mover advantage with the 1-series. Still, it has an advantage here –the 1-series is focussed on the driver; important in a segment where every owner is likely to drive their own car. You are likely to be shopping for something like a Honda Accord or a Skoda Superb rather than a compact luxury car if you want to be chauffeured around, after all. And it’s a real driver’s car, this one. Reasonably quick, beautifully balanced and an absolute joy from behind the wheel, the 1-series gives you the full BMW experience in a compact and relatively affordable package. It should be fuel efficient (BMW claims an ARAI tested 20.5kpl for the 118d), it rides superbly despite the car’s sharp handling and stiff run-flat tyres, and it should be good value too. BMW is assembling the 1-series in India and the lower duties mean the base petrol 116i starts at Rs 20.9 lakh, the base diesel 118d is for Rs 22.9 lakh, the intermediate 118d Sportline for Rs 25.9 lakh and goes on to Rs 29.9 lakh for this top-of-the line 118d Sportline Plus. Yes, the 1-series looks are unlikely to appeal to everyone and other competitors may have a bit more space in the rear, but in areas that count, the new 1-series is super competitive. You’d be crazy not to test drive one if you are shopping for a compact luxury car; you wouldn’t know what you’re missing.