Insurance Group: 25
MPG: 58.9
CO2: 127
0-62 Mph: 9.5 secs
BHP: 143 BHP
Range: 661 miles
However, it falls short on performance and this may disappoint drivers hoping for a more impressive display of speed. The 1 Series is also short on space which makes it fairly impractical.
PROS: The 118d Sport is a fantastically economical car thanks to BMW’s 'Efficient Dynamics' technology. Carbon emissions are also low and smooth handling ensures that this car is just at home on straight roads as it is on winding B-roads.
CONS: The performance of the 118d is nothing special and falls short of expectations. The 1 Series convertibles are not the most glamorous open top cars on the market either, and leg room in the rear seats is at a premium.
The smooth engine delivers mediocre performance but is fairly refined, offering a quiet and smooth ride. Suspension and road noise are also hushed whilst wind noise only really infiltrates the cabin at motorway speeds.
In terms of performance, the 143bhp engine delivers 221lb-ft of torque at 1750-2500 rpm which allows the car to accelerate from 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 129mph. Whilst these credentials are decent, they do not really put the 118d Sport in sports car territory and enthusiastic drivers will be disappointed.
The 118d Sport has very firm suspension which can make the car uncomfortable to drive - although there is the option to switch to the softer suspension offered on the non-sport models. The manual gearbox is smooth and crisp.
On the inside, the 118d Sport is stylish and tastefully appointed. Although a bit sombre, the cabin is well trimmed and has a quality feel.
The Sport trim comes with alloy wheels, air conditioning, MP3 connectivity and a stereo system as standard with the optional extras of leather seats for £1,010, climate control for £400, rear parking sensors for £350, Bluetooth for £400 and satellite navigation for £1,660.
The iDrive control system will take some getting used to, but can eventually be operated without too much fuss. BMW’s 'Efficient Dynamics' technology utilises braking, electric power steering and an automatic stop-start function to reduce wasted energy and increase fuel efficiency.
The 118d Sport rated well in the 2011 JD Power survey and is offered with a 3 year/unlimited mileage warranty. BMW have a superb reputation for reliability so it is unlikely that the 1 Series will develop any major issues.
Driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags are all fitted as standard, with traction and dynamic stability control.
An alarm, immobiliser, remote central locking and deadlocks are all fitted as standard.
The overall space in the 118d Sport is restrictive with very little leg room in the rear seats and a small boot, however the car does offer a great driving position thanks to the adjustability of the driver's seat.
The 118d Sport convertible is priced at £25,360 but thanks to the super efficient diesel engine, running costs are much lower than average. Fuel economy is an impressive 58.9 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions are also low at 127g/km, putting the 118d Sport in VED band D.
The 118d Sport should hold its value well, making it a good investment for those prepared to put up with the car's limited practicality and so-so performance.
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