Driving BMW’s new entry model – the 118 hatchback which arrived last December at $56,500 plus on-road costs. The small German five-door hatch restyled and powered by a familiar 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder engine with a small lift in power and torque driving the front wheels through a seven- speed dual clutch transmission. Also included a sports mode with manual shift paddles. This latest BMW 118 is 41mm longer and 25mm taller, other dimensions remain unchanged. Internally it has slightly better rear legroom however like most small BMW’s it’s still on the tight side. The cabin has a premium feel with well-structured seats while the overall impression is one of sportiness in the BMW tradition, accentuated by nice finishes and a modern dash layout. Good instrumentation with a welcome head up display over, although the 10.7-inch touchscreen with so many options can be tedious to use. While the air vents below are mounted low and look like an afterthought. BMW claim to have added significant features to the 118 – the driver-assist systems also most comprehensive, there’s wireless phone charging and two USB ports in each row, comprehensive 360-degree camera views, front and rear parking sensors, parking assist and a welcome reversing assistant. Warranty five-years/unlimited km.

IMAGE CREDIT / BMW

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