BMW 118D 3-Doors test

Intro: Well done

After the success BMW has enjoyed with the five door version of the One Series, now comes the three door model, earmarked for a sportier client base.

Esthetique: Streamlined

This longer door-line can clearly be seen from the side of the car. The upper bodywork, the long engine cover and the design of the side rear window accentuate the dynamics of the car.

On the other hand, you’ll need an expert eye to spot the other styling retouches to the One Series whether it be the three or five door version. Both the radiator grill and air intakes are larger and the headlights have a new contour to them...that’s all for the front. A new more obvious line of lights...takes care of the back.

The interior is classic BMW. It isn’t the most spectacular but it is well made, very ergonomic and clean. It would be nice to have the interior bits made from real aluminium than rather than a poor copy.

Motorization: All-new

As we have become accustomed to with BMW, there are innovations to be found under the bonnet as well, and today we are diving the 1.18d, diesel version. This One Series has an all new 143 brake horsepower four-cylinder engine, producing 300 Newton metres of torque.

On the road: Consistent

Thanks to the use of an aluminium engine housing and a tremendous amount of work concerning distribution, the three-door One Series, with its rear wheel drive, of course, has a rather low centre of gravity and a near perfect 50-50 weight balance. A plus that you notice as soon as you get behind the wheel.

We were won over by its agility. Diesel, certainly, and very sporty... that is the One Series. Its road handling is excellent. The electronically assisted power steering is brand new and it is a model of perfection that will let you point the front axle wherever you want and it all runs perfectly flat...and stringing corners together is child’s play.

A negative, you knew there has to be one: the stiff suspension sometimes kicks out and the reactions take a toll...not very comfortable all this.

Good brakes, a comfortable driving position well staged gearbox and excellent soundproofing combine for a fantastic driving experience. Even though the Stop and Start system does make one believe they’ve stalled the motor when using it for the first time.