The BMW 1 Series has a relatively sporty interior, with M Sport coloured stitching on the dash and the same coloured illumination in aluminium panelling.

The front of the cabin is simply laid out in terms of ergonomics, but the rear lacks features and is a slight squeeze for adults hoping to spend more than a short trip in there.

The 118 comes with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine that drives the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It makes 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque.

The M135 has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, also turbocharged, but driving all four wheels via a similar seven-speed DCT. It makes 233kW and 400Nm.

The 1 Series has a large 10.25-inch multimedia touchscreen and 10.7-inch driver display in a curved unit as standard, as well as wireless phone charging and a head-up display.

The BMW 1 Series has a standard five-seat layout, with the front seats electrically adjustable, heated and finished in synthetic leather.

The rear seats are a 40/60 split fold, also in synthetic leather trim.

BMW says the 118 should hit 100km/h in 8.5 seconds, while the M135 xDrive has a claimed sprint time of 4.9 seconds.

Both 1 Series variants have a 49-litre fuel tank, but different fuel consumption rates and reccomended fuel RON ratings.

The 118 consumes 6.4 litres of recommended 95 RON fuel for every 100km covered according to BMW, and should have a theoretical range of 765km.

The M135 xDrive drinks more, at 7.8L/100km, and has a recommended fuel quality of 98 RON. Theoretical range should be 628km, though as usual, achieving this would usually only be possible in lab conditions.