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The BMW 1 Series is a range of subcompact executive cars (C-segment) manufactured by BMW since 2004. It is the successor to the BMW 3 Series Compact and is currently in its third generation. Positioned as the entry level model in BMW range of products, the first generation was produced in hatchback, coupé and convertible body styles. The first generation of the BMW 1 Series consists of the BMW E81 (3-door hatchback), BMW E82 (coupe), BMW E87 (5-door hatchback) and BMW E88 (convertible) compact cars. The E81/E82/E87/E88 generation was produced from 2004 to 2013 and is sometimes collectively referred to as the E8x. The E8x replaced the 3 Series Compact as the entry level models of the BMW range. The second generation of the BMW 1 Series consists of the BMW F20 (5-door hatchback) and BMW F21 (3-door hatchback) subcompact cars. The F20/F21 generation was produced by BMW from 2011 to 2019 and is often collectively referred to as the F20. For the second generation of 1 Series, the coupé and convertible models marketed separately using the new BMW 2 Series nameplate.

Appearances[]

  • In Series 5, Episode 9, James reviews the E87 1 Series, while he praises the handling and looks, he loathes the car for it's expensive price, harsh ride, lack of rear space, practicality and trim level.
  • In Series 7, Episode 6, Jeremy compares the 130i E87 against the Volkswagen Golf R32 at the Top Gear Test Track. Despite praising the handling, speed and ride comfort, he loathes the 130i's styling, reliability, expensive price, back seat space and practicality, declaring it to be the worst of the two. At the hands of The Stig, it sets a time of 1:31.9 being 1.5 seconds slower than the Golf.
  • In Top Gear Australia S1E5, Pizzati tests the E88 135i before it sets a time of 1:14.90 around their track.
  • In Top Gear Australia, S2E1, the 135i driven by Pizzati is compared to the Mitsubishi Evo X FQ360 driven by Morrison.
  • In Series 17, Episode 1, Jeremy reviews the 1M at the Top Gear Test Track. He overwhelms the car with praise for it's speed, handling, grip, comfort, practicality and reasonable price, stating it to be a "briliant, brilliant, brilliant car." At the hands of The Stig, it sets an impressive time of 1:25.0.
  • In Top Gear: At The Movies, Richard compares the 1M to the Porsche Cayman R in a Movie Getaway Car Chase. He overwhelms the 1M with praise, particularly for it's speed, handling, comfort, practicality and air conditioning. Ultimately in the challenge the 1M is hit 57 times compared to the Cayman R's 79 times.
  • In 2011, Richard names the 1M as his Car of the Year.
  • In Series 21, Episode 5, Jeremy compares the F21 M135i to the Volkswagen Golf GTI at the Top Gear Test Track. Despite praising the handling, speed, price and ride comfort, he ultimately spins the M135i when drag racing against the GTI and criticises it's practicality. At the hands of The Stig, it sets a time of 1:25.1.


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