The interior of the new car is reminiscent of the previous model, with a familiar hatchback hip point and semi-recumbent driving position. The layout of the instruments and controls remains the same, providing a sense of continuity for drivers transitioning from the old model to the new one.
In terms of size, the car falls in the mid-sized category, offering more legroom in both the front and back rows compared to the Volkswagen Golf eHybrid. However, headroom is slightly compromised in both rows due to the design of the cabin. The presence of a 48V hybrid battery in the 120 model results in a reduction in boot space from 380 litres to 300 litres, which may be a drawback for those in need of ample storage space.
The interior of the new 1 Series has received a modern upgrade, with the removal of the old instrument cowl and physical heating and ventilation controls. These functions have been integrated into the ‘Curved Display’, which combines instruments and multimedia functions into a digital installation. The absence of the iDrive physical cursor controller may take some getting used to for those familiar with the previous model.
Owners can enjoy new ambient lighting features that change according to driving mode, a sportier M Sport steering wheel, and stylish M Sport-colored stitching on the dashboard. While the interior exudes a more upscale vibe, some testers have raised concerns about the layout and usability while driving.
The multimedia system in the new 1 Series has undergone a similar transformation to the X1, featuring a Curved Display with instruments on a 10.7-inch screen and multimedia functions on a 10.3-inch central screen. The physical menu controller and heater controls have been eliminated, requiring users to rely on the touchscreen for navigation and settings adjustments.
Despite the user-friendly shortcuts and temperature controls displayed on the screen, the absence of the physical controller may pose a challenge for some users. The infotainment system offers connectivity options for music apps, news services, video streaming, and even gaming with a BMW Digital Premium subscription. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are also included for enhanced smartphone integration.
Overall, the interior of the new 1 Series boasts a modern and sophisticated design, with upgraded features and technology. While some may miss the familiarity of the old model’s layout, the new multimedia system and connectivity options offer a more advanced driving experience.
