BMW 118d SPORTS HATCH
Sydney Morning Herald
Friday April 2, 2010
This super-miser version of the 1-Series hatch doesn't compromise on performance or price. BMW certainly can't be accused of standing still with its 1-Series range in recent years. Coupe and convertible versions have joined the pioneering hatch, while a host of petrol and diesel engines have been added to complement the original petrol four-cylinder.Now, the evolution of the German brand's baby continues with the addition of two differently flavoured diesel models to replace the frugal 120d.While the 123d gets an all-new twin-turbo diesel that combines truly sporting performance with great economy, the 118d tested here is targeted at super-misers such as Toyota's hybrid Prius and is available in hatch or convertible form.WHAT DO YOU GET?The 118d Sports Hatch kicks off at $42,170 (plus on-road and dealer costs) but isn't especially well equipped, with dual-zone climate control, trip computer, CD/MP3 sound system with auxiliary input and 16-inch alloys the key features. Going for the automatic transmission adds $2200.It's not stellar value next to Toyota's entry-level Prius, which costs less but gets keyless start, auto headlights/wipers and an alarm. The BMW's lack of cruise control is a real annoyance on long highway stints.HOW SAFE?The 118d might not be luxurious but with six airbags, stability control and rear parking sensors all part of the standard fare, it is safe. The BMW also rates a maximum five stars in NCAP crash tests.WHAT'S INSIDE?The 1-Series's back seat is quite cramped, with a distinct shortage of leg, foot and head space for anyone approaching 180 centimetres. The boot, too, is not as big as you'll find in your average front-drive small hatch but it's useful and expands to a handy size with the back seats folded. There's no spare underneath because the BMW has run-flat tyres.Things are much better up front. The seats are sufficiently supportive and quite comfortable. With a wide range of steering adjustment, it's not hard to pin down the right driving position.No issues, either, with the clear instruments, logical switchgear or the design, which isn't flashy but successfully imparts an upmarket feel. Dig deeper, though, and you'll find some underwhelming touches, such as the sharp-edged metal-look strip above the sound system.UNDER THE BONNETThe 118d is powered by a 105kW 2.0-litre, turbo-diesel four. Against other economy specials, the 300Nm peak torque figure stands out as a bit of a powerhouse.It feels that way on the road, too, where the BMW accelerates keenly, delivers strong rolling response and cruises in a relaxed, long-legged fashion. Turbo lag is rarely intrusive and, while an agricultural diesel soundtrack is obvious at lower speeds, it's impressively smooth and refined. Thesix-speed manual is sweet and slick to use.Like the 123d, the 118d flies under BMW's EfficientDynamics banner, meaning it gets a host of technology designed to save fuel and reduce emissions. The most obvious is automatic stop/start, which cuts the engine when the car is stopped to save fuel in traffic. It's a cinch to use just pop the clutch out in neutral and the engine dies, firing the instant you push it in again.The result is an impressive 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres average fuel economy rating, which isn't far off the most frugal sippers.ON THE ROADThere's good news here and it starts with steering that is sharp and beautifully linear.The BMW's cornering skills are just as enviable. It dives into turns with little roll and none of the front-end push that sometimes afflicts front-drive rivals in tighter stuff. Throw in its balance and ample grip and it's more than capable of pleasing.The 118d also rides respectably well on its 16-inch run-flat tyres. While sharp bumps intrude at low speeds and there's a discernibly sporty air, the suspension cushions craggy open-road tarmac with less crash and bash than other 1-Series models we've sampled shod with 17-inch wheels. Road noise is not overly intrusive.VERDICTIf you have your sights set on a super-thrifty small car but aren't prepared to compromise on driving pleasure, you'll love the 118d. In terms of fuel used versus satisfaction gained, it probably sets a new standard for the miser class.Widen your view, though, and the BMW starts to look less attractive. Something like a VW Golf diesel is much roomier and better equipped while being almost as good to drive, almost as economical and nigh on $10,000 cheaper.AT A GLANCEHOW MUCH? From $42,170 plus on-road and dealer costs (manual model; auto adds $2200)ENGINE 2.0-litre turbo-diesel 4-cyl;105kW/300Nm; 6-sp man/6-sp auto; 4.5L/100km;119g CO2/km; RWDFOR Strong performance for such a miser; competitive economy; entertaining road manners.AGAINST No cruise control; tight back seat; boot isn't huge; some underwhelming cabin details.THE COMPETITORSAUDI A3 1.9 TDIeFrom $38,900 plus on-road and dealer costs. Dynamically competent and admirably thrifty in spite of leisurely performance. Roomy and comfortable cabin has a quality feel, albeit lacking in standard equipment. No auto option. MINI COOPER DFrom $33,750 plus on-road and dealer costs. Boasts hybrid-like economy, nimble road manners, a retro feel and a sharp price. Cramped back seat, tiny boot and mediocre refinement, though. TOYOTA PRIUSFrom $39,900 plus on-road and dealer costs. Clever hybrid drivetrain delivers impressive economy. Feels high-tech and cabin is spacious and functional. You pay for the hybrid privilege, though. Average on-road refinement. CORRECTION Last week's road test said curtain airbags were an option on the base model Honda CR-V. Honda recently added curtain airbags to all CR-V variants as standard, meaning six airbags and stability control are now standard on all models.
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