MOTORING MOTORING
BMW 1 SERIES BMW is an aspirational brand, and
while some of its flagship models can top £100,000, its entry-level price is just £17, 510. its starter range is the 1 Series, and the entry model is a 114i ES 3-door, featuring a 101 hp version of BMW’s popular 1.6 litre petrol engine. Some might expect this budget
version to be a bit disappointing, but that is not the case. This model may be at the bottom of the range but it still has the legendary BMW build-quality, charismatic styling, decent performance and respectable level of standard kit. Admittedly, this isn’t a quick car, but
its overall driving dynamics are fine. Top speed is 121 mph and the 0-60 mph time of 11.7 seconds doesn’t feel sluggish as the power delivery is very refined. in certain situations, you do have to work the gearshift a little more, but it is not really a chore. The only small family car with rear- wheel drive, the 1 Series is well balanced and assured, with nimble handling. The power steering has a light touch which gives the car agility. Ride quality is excellent, with firmness for predictable cornering stability, yet not too much to compromise suppleness.
PEUGEOT 308 CABRIOLET
Since the creation of the fold-away hard-top, stylish convertibles have soared in popularity, offering the same cosy protection in bad weather as a conventional saloon or hatchback, but providing wind in the hair motoring at the touch of a button. Most mainstream manufacturers offer cabriolet models, with some premium brand models priced out of reach for many, but you can still achieve a stylish image and a great driving experience from some of the more affordable mod- els,. A case in point is the Peugeot 308 CC. This four-seater convertible exudes lots of charisma, has a good range of engine options and its one-touch, push- button hard top folds down in seconds. And prices start at just over £22,000. Buyers get the choice of 1.6 and 2.0-litre petrol and diesel
ROAD TESTS BY NICK FLETCHER
CONTINuING OuR NeW MOTORING COLuMN, THe exPeRIeNCeD AND AWARD WINNING MOTORING JOuRNALIsT NICK fLeTCher HeLPs OuR ReADeRs CHOOse THe BesT OF THe CARs.
Externally, the 1 Series has beautifully defined lines, giving it a sleek, sporty appearance. Inside, the cabin is smart and slightly under-stated, though still looking classy, and some of the switchgear is from some of BMW’s more expensive models. Seating is comfortable and
supportive, and there is decent head and leg-room in the rear,
The only small family car with rear-wheel drive, the 1 Series is well balanced and assured, with nimble handling.
though on the 3-door version, access to the rear seat is tight. The boot is also narrow, though perfectly adequate, and the rear seats do fold for larger loads. Standard equipment on the 114i still includes key essentials - stability and traction controls, alloy wheels, air-conditioning, remote locking, power windows, radio/CD/MP3 unit and front, side and curtain airbags. There are 67 versions in the 1 Series
range, some topping £30,000, and many buyers will opt for mid-spec models such as the 116i which offers more power and
equipment, and starts at £19,060. but for those getting their first new bmW, or perhaps
downsizing from a 3 Series, there is no doubt this entry-level 1 Series will still impress.
engines with varying outputs. my test model, a flagship allure version, had the 2.0 litre diesel unit, with 163 hp. Loaded with extra features, this model is priced at £27,050. There are four trim levels, all well equipped. Access models
have air-conditioning, power windows, alloys and Bluetooth. Active models add cruise control, climate control, auto lights
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