BMW 1-Series: all things to all people
The BMW 1-Series is the kind of car that many new drivers will aspire to own, as well as more experienced drivers. This is a rare thing, to find a car that seems to appeal to everyone.
This is the defining characteristic of BMW’s fantastic 1-Series, and has ensured its success since its launch in 2004. If you go ahead with a BMW 1-Series finance package, you will land yourself a new car that’s hugely versatile and multi-talented.
Since the old and slightly unloved 3-Series compact departed to make way for the 1-Series, the 1-Series has, in turn, spawned other models within its range. In 2004 the 1-Series was only available as a hatchback, but now it comes with a choice of hatchback, coupe and even convertible models. Team this with a range of world-class engines and a BMW 1-Series lease deal becomes all the more appealing.
One of the most exciting versions available on BMW 1-Series leasing plans is the 130d, either in convertible or coupe models. Due to the rear-wheel drive layout, the hatchback is not actually that roomy in the rear, which means that you don’t lose much in terms of rear space when you make the transition to coupe.
The diesel technology on offer in these cars is also an excellent selling point, particularly with the 3 litre twin turbo diesel engine. If you opt for this engine with your BMW 1-Series lease deal, it will deliver waves of low down torque – and will even provide a decent return on your fuel bills.
Of course, if you’re more of a discerning driver and don’t want a diesel, BMW are world leaders in performance petrol engines. If you’re considering a BMW 1-Series leasing plan, you might also be tempted by the ‘M1′, which brings twin turbo petrol power to the table and is capable of 0-60mph in under 5 seconds.
BMW 1-Series: BMW’s baby, but it’s still grown up
BMW is a grown up car manufacturer, there’s no question of that – you only have to consider their reputation for build quality, design and premium pricing. It needn’t cost an arm and a leg to get a BMW on your driveway, however. The 1-series is BMW’s best value car, and with a range of BMW 1-Series finance package options at your disposal, it can be quite straight-forward to get your hands on one.
First up, let’s have a look at what makes a BMW 1-series lease deal worth considering over its nearest competitor, the Audi A3. Both are similarly priced, both are hatchbacks, but the similarities grind to a halt there.
If you’re leaning towards choosing a BMW 1-series leasing plan, as opposed to the Audi, it’s probably because you’re either sold on the BMW marque, or because you know the BMW is rear wheel drive, as opposed to front or four wheel drive. This difference is key, because in the entire ‘hatchback’ sector, only the BMW 1-series is offered in rear wheel drive.
Rear wheel drive is the preferred set-up for racing drivers, true, but what difference does it make on the road? Well, the key difference is understeer – which is the term used to describe the car’s failure to turn in proportion to how much you turn the steering wheel. With rear wheel drive, understeer is almost eliminated, potentially making the car safer.
The problem is, there are Audi A3 leasing plans available for similar money, which would give you the option of four wheel drive – which is even safer. What’s more, because the BMW only has rear wheel drive, the extra space needed for drive to go the rear wheels is taken away from the boot and rear passenger area.
What you will get from your BMW 1-series lease deal, however, is a fun drive, an expansive list of optional extras, industry leading engines, class leading build quality and the extra kudos that goes with being sat behind a BMW badge – all of which makes it quite a grown up car, for the baby of the bunch.
Compare prices on BMW 1-series leasing plans online and you could save a bundle – and have your new car delivered direct to your door.