insideKENT Magazine Issue 38 - May 2015 | Page 133

BMW has always been a buzzword for quality
and style, and the 1 Series adds to this legacy,
offering those looking for a small family car the
chance to buy into all the experience and expertise
that BMW is famous for, whilst retaining all the
high standards that one would anticipate in a car
with such a badge on it.
While the original 1 Series BMW was very popular,
and hailed as a 'driver's car'; the M Sport seeks
to build on this achievement in every way, and
does a great job doing so.
You are made immediately aware that it's a very
handsome, rugged-looking car. Boasting deeper
front and rear bumpers than its predecessor, the
side view of the 118 automatically invokes feelings
of speed and finesse and, resting on shiny 18-

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inch M double-spoke alloys, it sits snugly on the
road, while its elongated body adds to the sense
of sporty urgency the car exudes from all pores.
Inside the car, you are tre ated to some seriously
fine upholstery; luxurious black Dakota leather in
the sports seating and steering wheel and, in the
case of our test model, a gorgeous aluminium
hexagon interior trim with Estoril Blue finisher and
a fantastic Harmon Kardon sound system.
Everything feels comfortable, shiny or hi-tech –
a real treat to experience! What's more, there's
plenty of space inside the cabin, and in the 360litre boot, which has a nice low-load lip and is
aided by fold-flat rear seats.