A new longer and wider BMW 1 Series will slash emissions below 100g/km CO2-allowing the marque’s models the first chance to roam through London without paying the Congestion Charge.
It’s the first time the car maker has produced a model which fits beneath the 100g/km CO2 barrier, although the new 116d EfficientDynamics model won’t be available from launch of the new model range, which hits showrooms in September. It’s likely the new model will be available from 2012 onwards but when it does go on sale, along with 99g/km CO2, the model will achieve an expected 74.3 mpg.
However the entire new 1 Series range has been improved to offer greater performance and improved fuel efficiency. With new TwinPower Turbo technology included on four cylinder petrol engines for the first time, the 1.6 litre option fitted as standard with EfficientDynamics technologies is capable of 49.6mpg and emits just 116g/km CO2, down from 132g/km.
In total the BMW 1 Series is available from launch with a choice of two, new generation, four-cylinder petrol engines and three, redesigned, four-cylinder diesel units. Featuring a new 83mm longer, 14mm wider and 30mm longer wheelbase, the model benefits from sporty handling and increased interior space too.
EfficientDynamics technologies include the extensive use of intelligent energy management systems, including Auto Start-Stop function in both manual and automatic transmissions – the latter a first-in-class with eight speeds. A new ECO PRO mode, activated using the Drive Performance Control (included as standard), is a new feature on BMW’s that adjusts various on-board systems to maximise efficiency. When in ECO PRO mode the throttle response is adjusted to encourage a more economical driving style. The extra economy created in ECO PRO mode is fed back to the driver, with the in-car displays showing the additional number of miles achieved.
Strong eco credentials don’t mean the car’s will be sluggish as the new 116i’s four-cylinder TwinPower engine develops 136hp at 4,400rpm and a maximum torque of 220Nm between 1,350 and 4,300rpm, providing a more dynamic drive that its predecessor. This is illustrated by the 8.5 seconds the car takes to reach 62mph from a standing start, and the 130mph top speed.
Equally the new 116d offers a particularly appealing blend of performance and economy. With a maximum output of 116hp and peak torque of 260Nm between 1,750 and 2,500rpm, the 0 to 62mph dash is completed in 10.3 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 124mph. This performance is matched to a combined fuel consumption of 62.8mpg, with CO2 emissions of 117g/km.
BMW 1 Series goes on sale in the UK on 17 September 2011 with prices starting from £19,375 OTR for a BMW 116i ES.
