Used BMW 1 Series for sale near East Midlands

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,600
Average Price: Around £14,000

BMW 1 Series (2024-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Great to drive	Practicality could be better
Plushly trimmed interior	Key equipment items cost extra
Undercuts rivals on price	Ergonomically inferior to its predecessor

Quick Summary

The BMW 1 Series (2024-present) is the fourth-generation of BMW's most affordable model, offering a compelling blend of premium quality, engaging driving dynamics, and competitive pricing. Despite switching to front-wheel drive (with most variants featuring all-wheel drive), it remains an impressively agile and entertaining car to drive, with strong body control and responsive handling. The interior is gorgeously trimmed with quality materials, and it undercuts premium rivals from Audi and Mercedes by a useful margin, making it an attractive entry point into BMW ownership.

The range comprises three turbocharged petrol engines: the 1.5-litre 120 (168bhp), the 2.0-litre 123 xDrive (215bhp), and the potent M135 xDrive (296bhp). All feature a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Fuel economy is respectable, with the 120 and 123 achieving 53.2mpg and 47.9mpg respectively thanks to mild hybrid technology, whilst the M135 manages 37.1mpg. However, practicality is limited, with a 380-litre boot (reduced to 300 litres in hybrid models due to battery storage), and key equipment items such as wireless charging and adaptive cruise control require additional payment.

Best for: Drivers seeking a premium, engaging hatchback with excellent driving dynamics, those wanting to enter BMW ownership affordably, and buyers prioritising interior quality and brand prestige over maximum practicality.

Not ideal for: Those requiring maximum boot space and rear legroom, buyers seeking comprehensive standard equipment without additional costs, or those preferring traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW characteristics.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the 1 Series if: You're seeking a premium, engaging hatchback with excellent driving dynamics, want to enter BMW ownership affordably, or prioritise interior quality and brand prestige.

Consider alternatives if: You require maximum boot space and rear legroom, seek comprehensive standard equipment without additional costs, or prefer traditional rear-wheel-drive BMW characteristics.

Competitive Position: The BMW 1 Series (2024-present) is a thoroughly compelling choice in the premium hatchback segment, offering excellent driving dynamics and a plushly trimmed interior that rivals more expensive competitors. Whilst it undercuts the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class on price, it matches them on overall CarGurus ratings and delivers a more engaging driving experience than mainstream rivals like the Volkswagen Golf. However, practicality limitations and the removal of physical controls represent notable compromises. For those prioritising driving enjoyment and premium feel over maximum practicality, the 1 Series represents outstanding value in its class.

Read our full BMW 1 Series Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.