BMW 116i Car Review

Facts At A Glance
Car: BMW 116i range
Prices: £16,410 - £21,160 - on the road
Insurance Group: 11
Emissions: 139-152g/km
Performance: 0-60mph 10.1s / Max speed 128mph
Fuel Consumption: (combined) 48.7mpg
Safety: Twin front, side & head airbags / ABS
Dimensions: Length/Width/Heightmm 4227/1936/1430

Cheapest Belonging to the Best?

Our Rating: No Rating Available

116i is one of BMW's 1 Series entry-level products. Despite its being the cheapest in the range it is still one of the highlights. But it's not really that cheap compared to the original price when you equip it with air conditioner, alloy wheels and all those whatnots.

It is a 122bhp unit with a 1.6-liter engine that will accelerate the 1 Series to 60mph in 10.1 seconds. The 116i is the lightest of all the 1 Series models and the nimblest. It showcases the relevance of the rear wheel drive to modest power and also turns razor sharp on bends. The front wheels can concentrate on steering and not be bothered with the power aspect of the car. It feels so much better than an approximately equal-priced Volkswagen Golf or Audi A3.

Though standard and S trim levels are available, you may want to choose from the better packaged SE and M Sport models that feature climate control, 16-inch alloy wheels and front fog lamps. Don't, however, think of upgrading to a 17-inch alloy even if you think it's more macho but is not comfortable in the ride. But if you can't afford the SE or M Sport models there is the ES which has ore equipment than the standard model for an additional of under £ 1,000.

The secret to not using large quantities of fuel but able to go quickly from one point to another is to do it with less power. With the introduction of Brake Energy Regeneration, these 116i are even burning less fuel. This technology akes use of the car's braking or going down hill because it recharges it during these times. Even being petrol-engine, when you drive it at a reasonable pace then it is able to return over 48.7mpg.

Unlike its competitors like the Volkswagen Golf, Alfa Romeo 147 or the Audi A3, the 116i is not built on the front wheel drive platforms. Though front wheel-drives are easier to manufacture and cheaper but it doesn't have the stability offered by the rear wheel-drive units. Once you drive one of these then you'll surely realize that it has a better feel.

As with other 1 Series, the space on this beauty is cramped, even smaller than a Honda Jazz which is a supermini. It would take some maneuvering to be comfortable inside, especially if you are the tall or lanky type. But this is not what it's all about. This is about turning heads and craning necks when you pass by, creating an impression of a chic driver.

The styling has been successfully finessed, the drawback is that its big asking price and the relatively modest power. It may not appeal to a lot of buyers looking for a five-door car that's for fun. The appearance does not necessarily endear the costumers but once you get behind the wheel then you'll know what you'll be missing if you don't grab the car. By the way, it's price is from £16,410 to £21,160 on the rode.