BMW Mzansi has launched the 1 and 2 Series models that will allow buyers entry into the premium segment. We attended its launch in Jozi.
The new 1 Series (above) and 2 Series (below) have a long bonnet, a passenger cell set well back, a dynamically flowing roofline and a powerful rear end. The new models have a flat front end that sits significantly lower to the road than its predecessor for a sporty character. The wide, forward-leaning BMW radiator grille features an innovative structure of vertical and diagonal bars. The iconic grille LED lighting will be available later in the year.
Both the 1 Series and 2 Series feature standard LED headlights feature striking vertical elements for the daytime running light and the turn indicators. Adaptive LED headlights with glare-free matrix high beam, cornering light function and blue accents are optionally available.
Both models offer optional M Sport Package that includes the Adaptive M Chassis, which lowers the vehicle by up to 8 millimetres, sport steering and 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Up to 19-inch light-alloy wheels and an M sport brake system are also available as optional equipment.
The 2 Series gets a sloping roof reminiscent of a Coupe whilst offering 4 doors. The standard BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line includes a graphic element with the number 1 in the Hofmeister kink counter-swing on the C-pillar. A long roof spoiler and side air deflectors emphasise the stretched silhouette. Vertical reflectors and a black diffuser-style insert add to the powerful appearance of the rear apron. The striking, two-part rear lights extend will into the side sections.
On the top spec xDrive M135 and M235 models, besides the unique M radiator grille with horizontal bars, M exterior mirror caps, the models now get four exhaust tailpipes that make them instantly recognisable as a top-of-the-range models.
The newly designed interior of the new BMW 1 and 2 Series models, which is completely leather-free as standard, offers a modern premium ambience with sporty accents and generous space for up to five occupants. Perforated seat surfaces are also available in the Veganza version with leather-like properties. The Veganza/Alcantara equipment is part of the M Sport Package and standard equipment in the BMW M135 and M235 xDrive. Heated seats and a wide range of electric adjustments, including memory on the driver’s side, are available as options for all seat versions. Lumbar support can be added to the sport seats and the M sport seats. High-quality surfaces and trim, the redesigned gear selector and the BMW Curved Display underline the progressive, premium ambience of the interior. The fully digital display system comprises a 10.25-inch Information Display and a 10.7-inch Control Display.
Newly designed seats offer a high level of comfort for long journeys.
By folding down the rear seat backrests, the storage space under the tailgate can be increased from 380 litres to 1,200 litres.
The model lineup locally comprises of the three-cylinder BMW 118/218 and the BMW M 135/ M235 xDrive. All of the drive units transmit their power to a 7-speed Steptronic transmission with dual clutch as standard. The 118/218 gets its drive from the 3-cylinder Turbo 1.5litre model with 100kW driving the front wheels. The M135/M235 xDrive is powered by a 233 kW four-cylinder 2.0 engine and features an Adaptive M Chassis with sport steering and intelligent all-wheel drive as standard and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Drive is to all wheels. All engines feature 48-volt mild hybrid technology.
Prices at launch:
| Base price (incl. Motorplan, VAT and CO2 tax) | |||
| BMW 118 (218) | R 713,395.00 (R733,559.20) | ||
| BMW M135 (M235) | R 982,767.80 (R1,043,099.90) |