BMW 1 Series 2020 pricing and spec confirmed: Entry-level hatchback up $4000

BMW Australia’s two-variant new-generation 1 Series range will launch before year’s end priced at $42,990 before on-road costs for the base 118i and $63,990 for the performance-honed M135i xDrive.

Compared to its predecessor, the new 118i is $4000 more expensive than before, but – as CarsGuide previously reported – is loaded with higher levels of standard equipment to justify the price rise.

Fitted with a head-up display, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch multimedia system, ambient interior lighting package, illuminated trim, six-speaker stereo, wireless phone charger and LED exterior lighting as standard, the 118i also boasts M Sport equipment such as steering wheel, sport seats and 18-inch alloy wheels at no extra cost.

Safety equipment has also been improved in the switch to new-generation form, with a reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert and speed limit display included in the 118i as standard.

Power comes courtesy of a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine producing 103kW of power and 220Nm of torque.

Unlike its predecessors however, the new 118i channels drive to the front wheels via seven-speed automatic transmission for a zero-to-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds.

Meanwhile, the M135i xDrive is also $4000 pricier than its M140i predecessor, but swaps a 250kW/500Nm turbocharged six and rear-wheel drive for a 225kW/450Nm all-wheel drivetrain.

Channelling drive is an eight-speed automatic transmission that enables a 0-100km/h run in 4.8 seconds.

Compared to its competitors, the BMW M135i xDrive undercuts both the Audi S3 Sportback ($64,200) and Mercedes-AMG A35 hatchback ($67,200).

Building on the 118i equipment, the M135i xDrive gains 19-inch wheels, keyless entry, leather upholstery, electric seat adjustment, adaptive LED headlights and 16-speaker harman/kardon sound system, as well as M Sport brakes, steering and rear spoiler.

Options include a $2900 ‘Enhancement Package’ that includes a sunroof and metallic paint, a ‘Comfort Package’ ($2300 in the 118i and $923 for the M135i xDrive) that includes front-seat lumbar support and heating, and the $1000 ‘Driver Assistance Package’ available exclusively to the 118i that bundles active cruise control, tyre pressure monitor and adaptive headlights.