The 1 Series was launched globally in autumn 2004 and shares many structural chassis and electronic elements with the 3-series. A 3-Door version was also launched in July 2007. It is the only rear wheel drive vehicle in its class. A Coupe was announced for late 2007, and there is also a convertible. The 1 series pricing fits neatly between MINI and the 3-series. The new 1 series convertible will share the looks of its coupe brother and uses a soft top, unlike the 3 series convertible's hard top. This preserves more boot space than the folding hardtop would allow. Top Gear praised the build quality saying, "The 1-Series boasts a strong interior. Tap it and you'll hear a deep thud as if all the materials are inches and not millimetres thick. Basically, the One has the same strength as all other BMWs, including the 7-Series. BMW's reputation for strong engines is retained, meaning it should stay the course." |
