The BMW 1 Series F20 (5-door) and F21 (3-door) represents the second generation of the Bavarian compact. It is historically significant because it is the last rear-wheel drive 1 Series, offering unrivaled driving pleasure in its category. Its career is split into two distinct phases: Phase 1 (2011-2015) with a divisive design and improvable engines (N generation), and Phase 2 (LCI, 2015-2019) which corrects the aesthetic issues and introduces the new modular engine family (B generation), significantly more reliable. Although this sheet focuses on diesel engines, very popular on this model for high-mileage drivers, the entire range is covered. Overall score: 7.5/10 (highly dependent on the year and engine).
The BMW 1 Series F20/F21 is a two-faced car. Phase 1 (2011-2015) should be approached with extreme caution: N47 diesel and N13 petrol engines are plagued by costly timing chain problems. Unless there's a clear history with the chain already replaced, it's better to AVOID them. In contrast, Phase 2 (LCI, from mid-2015) transforms the car. The introduction of modular B37/B47 (diesel) and B38/B48/B58 (petrol) engines makes it one of the most reliable and desirable compacts on the market, enhanced by its unique rear-wheel drive architecture. For a high-mileage driver, a 118d or 120d Phase 2 (B47 engine) coupled with the ZF8 automatic gearbox is a masterful choice, provided that the EGR recall has been carried out.