It's still a significant moment, despite not being the first front-wheel-drive BMW at all. Until this third and new generation of BMW 1 Series , the presence of the Bavarian brand in this segment was always made with rear-wheel drive.
An architecture with advantages and disadvantages, as we also proved in the predecessor's test, but which made it a unique proposal in the segment.
The adoption of the FAAR platform — an evolution of the UKL to allow multiple levels of electrification — means that the new 1 Series (F40 generation, nothing to do with rampant horses) is now adopting the same type of architecture as all the other C-segments and, above all, of its rivals Mercedes-Benz Class A and Audi A3 — the front engine in a transverse position and in a more advanced position in relation to the front axle.
An alteration with countless repercussions, starting with the design and ending with the dimensions of habitability, unavoidably passing through the dynamic behavior.
When we talk about design, we find new proportions (shorter bonnet and more recessed front axle); when it comes to housing quotas, the differences turned out to be much smaller than expected. The rear occupants benefit from a little more space, it's true, but it's the access to the rear seats that really benefited, thanks to the wider opening.
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And when we talk about dynamic behavior? Well… it's time to give the floor to Guilherme and know the answer to the question: is the all-ahead BMW 1 Series better than its rear-wheel-drive predecessor?
In this test, Guilherme tested the 118d version. It is equipped with a four-cylinder 2.0 l diesel engine and 150 hp, here with the excellent eight-speed automatic transmission, promising good performance and good consumption.
The BMW 118d starts at 39,000 euros — 8500 euros more than the 116d (ISV, who else?) — but this particular unit came equipped with a long list of options that threw its price to a high 51 435 euros — check the technical sheet to find out about them all , as well as their values.