BMW 1-Series facelift unveiled at 2015 Geneva Motor Show
BMW has revealed the facelifted 1-Series at Geneva, updating the hatchback with new styling, revised engines and enhanced equipment to sharpen its appeal in the premium compact segment.
BMW introduced the facelifted 1-Series at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, giving its smallest rear-wheel-drive model a comprehensive update. The changes focus on styling, efficiency and in-car technology, with the aim of keeping the 1-Series competitive against newer rivals in the premium compact class.
Exterior and interior changes
The most visible changes to the 1-Series come at the front and rear. BMW has reshaped the headlights, grille and bumpers, introducing optional full LED units and adaptive features such as High Beam Assist. The rear lights now feature a distinctive L-shaped LED signature, echoing the look of the larger 2-Series. New wheel designs and paint options complete the exterior refresh.
Inside, the 1-Series gains a 6.5-inch central display as standard, with an optional 8.8-inch screen for models equipped with the navigation system. The iDrive controller remains on the centre console, and BMW has added chrome surrounds to the controls, new upholstery choices and gloss black trim details. These upgrades are intended to lift perceived quality and bring the car closer to the latest BMW interiors.
Engine range and performance
BMW has overhauled the engine line-up for the facelifted 1-Series, introducing new three- and four-cylinder petrol and diesel units. The entry-level 116i now uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine producing 109hp and 180Nm of torque. The 118i offers 136hp from a 1.6-litre four-cylinder, while the 120i steps up to 177hp. The 125i uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder rated at 218hp and 310Nm.
On the diesel side, the 116d and its EfficientDynamics Edition share a 1.5-litre engine with 116hp and 270Nm. The 118d and 118d xDrive use a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 150hp and 320Nm, while the 120d and 120d xDrive raise output to 190hp and 400Nm. The 125d sits at the top of the diesel range with 224hp and 450Nm.
| Model | Engine | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 116i | 1.5L 3-cyl petrol | 109 | 180 |
| 118i | 1.6L 4-cyl petrol | 136 | 220 |
| 120i | 1.6L 4-cyl petrol | 177 | 250 |
| 125i | 2.0L 4-cyl petrol | 218 | 310 |
| M135i | 3.0L 6-cyl petrol | 326 | 450 |
| 116d | 1.5L 3-cyl diesel | 116 | 270 |
| 118d | 2.0L 4-cyl diesel | 150 | 320 |
| 120d | 2.0L 4-cyl diesel | 190 | 400 |
| 125d | 2.0L 4-cyl diesel | 224 | 450 |
The flagship M135i now produces 326hp and 450Nm from its 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine. BMW claims a 0-100km/h time of 5.1 seconds with the manual gearbox, 4.9 seconds with the eight-speed automatic and 4.7 seconds for the xDrive all-wheel-drive version with automatic transmission.
Equipment and options
BMW has expanded the list of available features on the facelifted 1-Series. Buyers can specify adaptive LED headlights, LED fog lights with cornering function, and a choice of new alloy wheels. Inside, the larger navigation screen and enhanced infotainment system are optional, while new upholstery and trim options allow for greater personalisation.
Competition and context
The 2015 update arrives as rivals such as the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class continue to attract buyers in the premium compact segment. BMW's decision to retain rear-wheel drive and offer a broad engine range, including the potent M135i, sets the 1-Series apart from most competitors. For those interested in how other brands have approached recent facelifts at Geneva, see the Volkswagen Scirocco R facelift from 2014.
