BMW will launch its new entry level model, the 1-series, in India on September 3.
The 1-series will come with two engine options, a petrol and diesel. The 118d is powered by the 1997cc diesel motor that we have seen in other BMW models. The motor is, however, detuned to 143bhp for the 1-series, and that gives it an edge over Mercedes' A 180 CDI.
The petrol motor is also a hi-tech 1.6-litre turbocharged direct injection motor that also powers the Mini Cooper and Cooper S. The engine in the 1-series develops a healthy 136bhp of power. BMW claims that the diesel engine-equipped 1-series will return 20.58kpl, whereas the petrol will return16.28kpl. The car will also come with auto Start/Stop function, which should boost efficiency.
Both motors will come mated with 8-speed automatic gearboxes only. BMW will also tweak the suspension of the 1-series to cope with Indian roads.
The 1-series, true to BMW genetics, has a longitudnal engine, rear-wheel drive layout and 50:50 weight distribution, and will surely spice up the luxury hatchback segment here. The German carmaker has already started testing the car in India.
BMW has already begun accepting pre-bookings for the 1-series. What's more, the carmaker is also offering its 'BMW Service Inclusive Plus' package free of cost for the first 100 customers. According to the carmaker, this includes services "as often as necessary" within the inclusive period, with the added bonus of avoiding the inconvenience of discussing cost estimates and undertaking financial transactions at every workshop visit.
The car would be locally produced at the BMW plant in Chennai, so expect prices to be in the range of around Rs 20-25 lakh.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
Lenny D'sa
Saptarshi Mondal
