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BMW has recently launched (September 3, 2013) the most awaited and coveted 1 Series hatch back in India. The smallest of its offerings, the 1 Series is supposed to be the official entry of the leading German automaker into the premium hatchback segment. At 4.2 meters long, the car's length can be compared to the Honda City. The car is the smallest BMW ever made. But surprisingly, this all new vehicle is still a relatively big car. It has been impressively equipped with well appointed interiors and the exteriors and a set back passenger cabin. The sharp chiselled rear gives the car a unique look and feel.

The all new 3 Series platform based BMW is a five seater and a five door hatchback. The front portion of the car sports the brand's signature lines and old grille design. The pronounced hump on the hood flowing into the front windscreen and the A-pillars is impressive. Since it is a hatchback, the back gives a standard BMW design. The shape of the boot hatch is akin to that of the 3-Series. The tail lights are smaller. The elegance of vehicle including the BMW striking lines is successful in making a mark on the modern metropolis. The BMW 1 Series is one of only a few hatchbacks in the compact class that offers two rear seats combined with a practical stowing option in the centre. This can be swapped by a third seat if desired.

The interiors of BMW 1 Series are awe-inspiring. The longer rear doors are big enough for adults in the back. The maximum rear legroom is 860mm. The front has been bestowed with plenty of headroom, shoulder space and legroom. The pedal and steering wheel positioning is decent. Telescopic adjustment on the steering wheel combined with squab height adjustment and comfortable seats make interiors of the coupe adorable. The centre stack is canted towards the driver. Front passenger and driver areas are divided by sheathe of high-gloss plastic. All in all, the interiors are attractive and user friendly. The quality of fixtures and fittings is decent.

The BMW 1 Series sports the 2.0 liter 118d turbo diesel unit. It is capable of delivering 143 HP and 320 Nm of torque. The 4 cylinder diesel unit, in its Euro spec, ensures a fuel economy of 24.39 kmpl. The 116i 1.6 liter petrol engine is capable of 136 HP and 220 Nm of torque. Both petrol and diesel engines will be mated to an 8 speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels with softer suspension settings to suit Indian roads. The coupe will definitely get the pulse racing for its intensity. The intelligent all-wheel drive will ensure all kinds of driving situations a delight.

The 1-series is more pleasant and relaxing to drive. The softer-sprung yet efficiently damped suspension set-up ensures a decent performance of smoothing out a rolling road surface at normal speeds. The body of car is kept at good control even at faster driving expeditions. The dial up comfort mode, servotronic power steering, and dynamic performance through a scintillating engine and powerful brakes make the hatchback a wonderful choice for BMW lovers.