The BMW 116i might not offer much in the way of excitement but sometimes sensible pays a whole bunch of dividends. Andy Enright takes a closer look.
BMW hasn't always got the 1 Series exactly right. There have been 1 Series models that were priced too optimistically or which offered the driver too little involvement. Sometimes both. This time round, the 1 Series is a much-improved car and BMW has smartened up its act when it comes to specifying and pricing.
The 116i might be the entry-level point in the range but it stands alone as a very good car. It's quick enough to be interesting, the price looks just about right and there's a good deal more space, allied to better quality and decent economy and emissions.
Able to hit 60mph in 8.2 seconds and go on to a top speed of 130mph, the 116i is no slouch and is a long way on from the original 116i that could only manage it in 10.9 seconds. The key to this performance is a twin-scroll turbocharger that forces additional air into the combustion chamber. It runs at very light pressure in the 116i so there's none of the lag and lunge you get with more heavily boosted cars. It just offers the driving characteristics of a 2.0-litre normally aspirated engine.
Prices kick off at just under £20,000 and when compared to many of its rivals, an ES specification 116i doesn't look bad value at all. Of course, you can spend a good deal more on SE, Sport and Urban trim levels. The first two trims need little in the way of explanation, SE being BMW's comfort trim level and Sport replacing the old M Sport designation, in offering a more dynamic personality but the Urban badge is worth having a little look at.
This gets standard 17in alloy wheels with white elements, complimenting the exterior styling such as the matt chrome exhaust tailpipe and white finisher for the front air inlets and kidney grilles. Specific Urban bumper and optional contrast exterior mirrors also catch the eye, and an entry key with white inset completes the look.
The white theme continues inside with white detailing on the steering wheel and upholstery. There's also welcome lighting with the choice of Classic Orange and Royal Blue colours giving drivers the chance to customise the interior of the BMW 1 Series Sports Hatch to match their mood. Entry door sills with Urban designation for the front doors match the exterior Urban designation on the front side panels.
The styling may not be to everyone's tastes but if there's one thing we've learned about contemporary BMWs, it's that while some initially look challenging, they get easier on the eye after we've become used to the designs. Choose the right colour and get the wheel choice right and they usually look the part. The 116i has taken a while to come good, but it's finally got there. Here's to perseverance.
