BMW’s 1 series gets refreshed

Upgrades inside and out along with new tech for the all-new locally assembled BMW 1 Series.

The one and only rear-wheel drive hatchback in the world, the BMW 120i M Sport, gets a new look and a few techy upgrades. The 1 series is probably the most understated BMW model of them all but the 120i M Sport is looking to grab the attention and shine this time around. Yes M Sport comes as standard hence the inclusion of the term in the 120i’s nomenclature.

As the only rear wheel drive in its segment, the 120i has an exemplary 50:50 weight distribution to give drivers the BMW Sheer Driving Pleasure. The 120i’s M Sport also includes the M Aerodynamic Kit, the M Leather Steering Wheel and 18-inch M Sport alloy wheels with M Sport Suspension.

On the outside, refreshments mostly includes LED lights, the front now features new distinctive LED daytime running lights as standard while LED headlights and Adaptive LED headlights come as options. The rear gets new LED taillights with the signature BMW L-shaped design. Other upgrades includes a wider kidney grille and flattened headlights that are now spaced together to deliver an even more dynamic front appearance to combine with the larger air inlets under the headlights, the tailgates on the rear bumper also contributes to the especially sporty look.

On the inside, the seats are upholstered with Alcantara and cloth to accentuate the aggressive and sporting nature of the car. To make things more convenient for drivers, the sports seats in the 120i M Sport comes with electrical adjustment functionality as standard.

Under the bonnet lies a 1.6-litre four cylinder petrol engine that generates 177bhp and 250Nm of torque. The TwinPower Turbo engine generates a power output of 177bhp and 250Nm of torque to let the car the ability to sprint from 0-100kph in just 7.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 222kph. BMW is also proud to announce that the figures are paired with an average fuel consumption reading of 5.9l/100km and a CO2 emission level of 137g/km.

The 120i M Sport’s ConnectedDrive also received an upgrade. The system now displays itself on the largest-in-class 8.8-inch free standing display monitor that, in typical BMW character, is oriented towards the driver. The BMW ConnectedDrive interface enables the use of various functions like allowing drivers to access phone apps via the BMW ConnectedDrive app on their devices.

The 120i M Sport also features the latest Professional Navigation system with Touch Controller as standard, as well as Comfort Access system which make ingress and egress of the vehicle more convenient. Another segment leading feature in the 120i M Sport is the Driver Experience Control which features the Sport mode to further set the car’s position as the most dynamic car in its segment.

The locally assembled BMW 120i M Sport comes in a choice of five colours; Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver, Mineral Grey and Estoril Blue. BMW estimates the 120i M Sport’s retail price at RM219,800.00 on-the-road without insurance with BMW Malaysia’s latest Five Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty and Free Scheduled Service Program included.

Jerrica Leong