Here at Top Gear Philippines, we love hatchbacks. Which is why us makes us rather sad that hatchback offerings in the country have dwindled over the years. But it wasn’t that long ago when the these kinds of cars were thriving in the local market. Just about every automaker had one of offer in different segments, too.
Nowadays, hatchbacks are relegated either to the budget-friendly subcompact class or niche high performance models. If anything, there’s only one mainstream compact hatchback in the country, and that’s the Mazda 3.
Where hatchbacks have disappeared completely is in the luxury compact segment. A few years ago, you could still get a Lexus CT200h, Audi A3 Sportback, Mercedes-Benz A-Class Hatchback, and BMW 1-Series. Even though it wasn’t the first of its kind, it’s the 1-Series that proved popular in the Philippines.
That is, until, the third-generation arrived here. Yes, BMW Philippines did offer it for a time, but barely anyone bought it. Eventually, it was quietly discontinued, not that anyone actually noticed.
Now, we find ourselves in Germany about to try out the latest iteration of the 1-Series. Now, chances are we might not get the new model here, but it does beg the question, does it deserve a second chance?
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BMW 1-Series: A quick history
The 1-Series wasn’t BMW’s first hatchback. This model actually traces its roots back to the early-‘70s with the 02 Series Touring. It was produced from 1971 to 1974, and it would take BMW 20 years to build another one with the 3-Series Compact of 1994.
As for the 3-Series Compact, it would be made from 1994 to 2004, spanning two generations. But by the new millennium, BMW changed tactics for its hatchback, separating it from the 3-Series family, and forming the 1-Series.
The first-generation 1-Series hit the ground running in 2004 and had the unique distinction of being the only model with rear-wheel drive in its segment. That gave it entertaining and dynamic handling, albeit at the cost of rear legroom and a small cargo area. Nonetheless, it was a hit in Europe and sold relatively well in countries where it was offered. Yes, even here in the Philippines.
For the 1-Series’ second act it followed the familiar formula with a small footprint, the choice of three or five doors, and rear-wheel drive. Again, a fun little car, if a little tight inside. But it was a great choice for those who were starting to think that the venerable 3-Series was getting a bit on the larger side. This one was sold from 2011 to 2019.
Moving to the third generation, it was a radical shift for the 1-Series. It moved to a front-wheel drive platform, much to disappointment of enthusiasts. It wasn’t without reason, though. A study conducted by BMW back in 2010 revealed that 80 percent of previous 1-Series owners didn’t even know their car was rear-wheel drive.
While it lost rear-wheel drive, it gained a whole lot more space inside. It also broadened the appeal of the 1-Series as it became more useable than before. Again, a big seller in Europe, as well as Malaysia and Singapore. But in the Philippines? Not really.
Is it really all-new?
BMW insists that that its 2025 1-Series is an all-new model. If you ask us, it’s more a heavy update than a totally new generation. Okay, so we’ll give the brand some credit here. Yes, there’s extensive changes to the exterior with a new set of headlights, a new grille, and a lower nose. At the back, the tail lights get a more aggressive look, along with some tweaks to the bumper.
But there are hidden updates, too. The rear fender was actually reshaped but it’s almost invisible to the eye. It’s a hair wider than before and was done for the sake of improving aerodynamics. Then we get to the underchassis which was completely overhauled for this model. BMW says it for even better ride and handling. Okay, maybe there is some merit to BMW’s statement.
The interior has been given a major ravamp. It follows BMW’s new theme that practically eliminates a whole load of buttons inside. We’re still torn about this move, but we have to admit that the cabin looks sharper and sportier than before. BMW is particularly proud of the materials used inside, too, saying that a big chunk of the trims and fabrics come from recycled materials. If you’re coming from the previous model, you might just think that you’re in an all-new car.
As for engines, there’s a new range of them around. There’s the 1.5-liter, three-cylinder turbo that powers the 116 and 120, and a 2.0-liter turbo that motivates the 123 xDrive and top-dog M135 xDrive. 2.0-liter diesels are also available for the 118d and 120d.
Passenger POV
On the day of the drive, it was the 120 M Sport and M135 xDrive that were on hand. We hopped in the latter first and after just a few minutes on the road, there was a bit of a surprise.
Germany’s roads, while smooth, can have the occasional imperfection. Some parts are still paved with cobblestone, giving its suspension a workout. Despite that, the ride, while on the firm side, remained relatively supple. Truth be told, we were expecting sore backs by the end of the first half of the trip, but that wasn’t the case at all. Granted, there was some electronic suspension trickery involved, but even with all the sporting bits attached to it, we were generally comfortable.
For the second half of the drive, we moved to the tamer 120. It’s exactly how we expected it to feel compared to its racier counterpart. The ride was smoother, almost as if the car belongs to a larger size class. Okay, so it’s not at the level of the 3-Series just yet, but its sporty body kit and low profile tires would lead you to think that it’ll have a crashy ride.
Behind the wheel
For our stint behind the wheel, we chose to go for the 120, a model that might be more relatable for the local market. Some stats, you ask? Despite just having three cylinders, it’s still good for 170hp and 280Nm of torque. In our hands, it felt punchy and responsive with not much in the way of turbo lag.
Its seven-speed dual clutch transmission deserves praise, too. It's one of the smoothest out there and almost felt like a conventional automatic. There was no jerkiness, even during rush hour in Munich's busy districts.
Admittedly, we miss the playful nature of past 1-Series models, but that doesn’t mean that the new one is a bore. It still feels sharp with a decent amount of steering feel, and it handles obediently, turning in where your eyes (and steering wheel) are pointed.
Is it fun? It can be, but just not in the way the old ones were. This one will impress you with its roadholding and relative light-footedness. For a large percent of the people who buy these hatchbacks, they’ll be safe in the knowledge that their car of choice won’t surprise them by suddenly going sideways.
Deserving of a comeback?
This is a tough question to answer. All in all, we say the 1-Series is a thoroughly capable hatchback. It’s still somewhat fun to drive, it rides great; especially for a compact car, and it’s spacious enough to a point that you don’t really need a big SUV. We thoroughly enjoyed our short stint in it, and it has all the makings of a great daily driver that can give the driver a smile from time to time.
But therein lies the rub. As you’ve figured, BMWs aren’t what one would call easily with financial reach. Sure, they’re the norm in Germany and the rest of Europe, but they’ll still be on the pricey side by the time it lands here.
The common argument will be that for the same money that BMW sells it for here, you can get a larger vehicle for millions less. Never mind that it’s less comfortable and doesn’t handle as well, most would prefer that one for as long as it’s bigger.
To put it bluntly, the new 1-Series is a good car that no one will buy here. It deserves more success, if we’re being honest. However, our market simply doesn’t buy cars from this segment anymore. It’s a shame, really, as it’s a genuinely compelling and competent package.
However, there is one way that the 1-Series can return here. Skip the mainstream 120 or 116 models and go straight for the high performance M135 xDrive. Since compact hatchbacks are pretty much a niche here, BMW Philippines might as well go all out with it.
