BMW 1 Series• New tax-free EfficientDynamics model
• New engines offer greater performance and economy
• M Sport trim level now available

The BMW 1 Series range has been updated with a trio of new engines and a top-spec M Sport trim level.

New to the diesel model line-up is the 116d EfficientDynamics. With a 1.6-litre engine coupled to BMW’s range of fuel saving measures, including low rolling resistance tyres and tweaked aerodynamics, it emits just 99g/km of CO2, meaning zero road tax for the first time in a 1 Series.

It also returns fuel economy of 74.3mpg on the combined cycle. This is significantly better than the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, and a match for the frugal, but distinctly less sporty Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion. It is also impressive when considered alongside the 116d ED’s relatively high power output of 116bhp and 0-62mph performance time of 10.5 seconds.

At the other end of the scale, two new performance engines have been introduced: the 125i and 125d.

The petrol powered 125i features BMW’s unique TwinPower Turbo technology, to extract a peak power figure of 218bhp from its 2.0-litre engine. This is enough to get the car from 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds (6.5 if equipped with the optional 8-speed automatic transmission).

Despite the performance on offer, the 125i sips fuel at a rate of 42.8mpg, and will cost £130 per year to tax, thanks to CO2 emissions of 149g/km.

The new 125d is arguably even more impressive. Replacing the now defunct 123d as the diesel range-topper, the 2.0-litre unit very nearly matches the petrol model in performance terms, reaching 62mph from a standstill in a scarcely credible 6.5 seconds. It also yields a distinct economy advantage, managing 57.7mpg, whilst CO2 emissions of 126g/km means road tax of £95 per year, with the first year free.

A new ‘M Sport’ trim level is now available on the 1 series, for those looking for a more involved drive. The suspension has been reconfigured, being lowered by 10mm and with stiffer springs and dampers.

Further additions in M Sport trim include uprated brakes on all but the most powerful models, and BMW M design alloy wheels, available in 17 and 18-inch guises.

The interior also receives suitably sporty detailing. Full details of what is to be included on UK spec cars is yet to be confirmed, but is likely to include M branded aluminium door sills, leather steering wheel, and gearshift.

A new design of Alcantara trimmed sports seats with contrasting stitching will also feature, as will sports style instruments and exclusive Aluminium Hexagon trim accents.

Finally, BMW’s famous Estoril Blue paint colour is now available as an option solely on 1 Series M Sport models.

The new BMW 1 Series M Sport range starts at £22,510 for the 116i. All are available to order now, with the first customer cars being delivered in March.

By Daljinder Nagra