BMW 1 Series Convertible (2007 - 2011) review

The BMW 1 series Convertible takes the striking body of the Coupé and does away with the roof, replacing it with an electronically-operated fabric hood. Our M Sport test model also had a set of 17-inch alloys wheels. We think it’s one of the best looking current BMWs. It’s certainly more memorable than either the Audi A3 cabriolet or Volkswagen Eos.

BMW interiors are traditionally rather sober and the 1 Series Convertible is no different.  The front of the cabin consists of dark plastics with a nice feel while the door trim on our model was part black, part cream. Cream leather seats are a £970 option and provide plenty of support for a car with such a firm ride. Overall the 1 Series is a very classy place to sit.

For a convertible the BMW 1 Series is very impressive. It will seat four adults fairly comfortably in the sculpted seats. With the roof up all-round vision isn’t the best with the rear three quarters of the roof a hindrance. The fabric roof opens or closes in a smooth motion in just 22 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph. With the roof up the boot has a capacity of 305-litres dropping to 260-litres with it stowed.

BMWs have a notoriously firm ride and the model we tested, with M Sport suspension, was no different. On smooth roads the 1 Series is brilliant but is uncomfortable on rougher surfaces. When it comes to corners it’s fantastic for a convertible with near non-existent lean through corners. Steering is sharp and poised with plenty of feel.

The 123d model we tested had a 2-litre diesel engine which develops 204bhp and 295lb/ft of pulling power. The convertible accelerates from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 143mph. There is enough pulling power to make the 1 Series an effortless overtaker. Engines range from a 118i  petrol, which will accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds and hit 130mph and the range-topping 135i M Sport. The latter, courtesy of a 302bhp engine will accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds and hit a limited top speed of 155mph.

Considering the 123d’s power and performance you could be forgiven for thinking it will be quite thirsty but BMW claims it will average 52.3mpg. After 500-plus miles, mainly on A-roads, we were averaging 41.5mpg. CO2 emissions of 144g/km mean an annual road tax bill of £125. With exception to the 125i and 135i, the range offers affordable motoring, BMW claim the models average between 44.8mpg (118i) and 57.6mpg (118d). The 125i averages 34.9mpg with the thirstier 135i claiming 30.1mpg. Insurance groups of 13 to 18 may mean high premiums depending on your age and location.

The 1 Series Convertible is a superbly built car with a range of award-winning engines so there should be few concerns here.

The 1 Series Convertible has recieved five stars for passenger protection in the EuroNCAP crash test and is fitted with six airbags, stability control and traction control. In the event of the car rolling, metal bars will pop up from behind the back seats to provide protection.

Standard equipment includes CD player with steering wheel controls, electric windows, on-board trip computer, air-conditioning and alarm and immobiliser. All leather seats (a £970 option) feature SunReflective technology which keeps the surface temperature up to 20 degrees centigrade lower than a normally upholstered seat.

The BMW 1 Series Convertible is a well proportioned, excellent handling car with a whole range of brilliant engines coupled with that aspirational badge on the bonnet. These factors all help contribute to a great hair-in-the-air experience.