BMW 1-Series Facelift launched in India at Rs 29.9 lakhs

If you found the looks of the previous BMW 1-Series a bit too quirky, here’s some relief. The more universally accepted front-end of the BMW 2-Series has finally made it to the 1er along with a few key changes. The new car, a facelift to the 1-Series showcased at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, was silently introduced in the country, but only in one trim – 118d Sport Line.

Apart from the new fascia, the facelift brings along a new rear-end, updated interior, and larger dimensions – the car is slightly longer and taller than the model it replaces. Following what looks like a trend here, the new 1-Series is only available with a diesel engine. And while the smaller 1.6-litre petrol unit isn’t available, the 2-litre diesel unit is now a bit more powerful (150hp and 320Nm of maximum torque). As with most other BMWs on sale in India, the car comes with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Inarguably the most fun to drive and the only RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) car in its segment, the BMW 1-Series couldn’t set the sales charts on fire. The styling wasn’t as widely accepted as that of the competitors’, while the eventual lack of engine options didn’t work in the hatchback’s favour.

Now with the new car, BMW certainly has a stronger contender in the segment. But with the car’s availability only in one trim level and engine (118d Sport Line), it remains to be seen how differently the market reacts.

The new BMW 118d is priced at Rs 29.9 lakh, ex-showroom, Thane, Maharashtra.