The BMW 1 Series F20 (sedan) and F21 (hatchback) are a range of compact luxury cars produced by German automaker BMW from 2011 to 2019. Here's an in-depth summary:
Design and Features
The F20/F21 models marked the second generation of the 1 Series and were designed to be more sophisticated, sporty, and feature-rich than their predecessors. The exterior design featured a more aggressive front bumper, swept-back LED headlights, and a distinctive rear spoiler on some trims. The interior was upgraded with premium materials, a high-resolution infotainment screen, and a range of advanced safety features.
Engines and Performance
The 1 Series F20/F21 offered an extensive range of gasoline engines, including inline-3 (114d, 116i), inline-4 (118i, 120i, 125i), and inline-6 (135i) units. The diesel lineup consisted of inline-3 (111d, 112d) and inline-4 (116d, 120d) engines. Performance ranged from the base 114d's 77 HP to the M Sport-tuned 135i's 306 HP. A range of transmissions was available, including manual (6-speed), automatic (8-speed), and dual-clutch units.
Trim Levels and Options
The F20/F21 models were offered in several trim levels:
- Base (116d, 118i)
- Sport Line (with unique styling elements, such as a more aggressive front bumper and side sills)
- Luxury Line (focusing on premium materials and features)
- M Sport (with sport-tuned suspension, aerodynamic body kit, and performance-oriented trim)
- Edition models (limited-edition variants with exclusive design elements)
Safety Features
The 1 Series F20/F21 introduced several advanced safety features as standard or optional equipment:
- ABS, stability control, and six airbags
- Rearview camera (standard on higher trims or optional on lower ones)
- Lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, and forward collision warning systems
Dimensions and Capacity
The 1 Series F20/F21 had a compact footprint:
- Length: 4,324 mm (170.2 in) for the sedan, 3,960 mm (155.9 in) for the hatchback
- Width: 1,726 mm (67.8 in)
- Height: 1,442 mm (56.8 in)
The sedan and hatchback had a slightly smaller interior than their predecessors but still offered ample space for passengers and cargo.
Sales and Legacy
The F20/F21 models were well-received by critics and customers alike, praised for their agile handling, strong performance options, and feature-rich interiors. Over 900,000 units of the 1 Series (sedan) and 200,000 units of the hatchback (F21) were produced during its production run. In 2019, BMW discontinued both models to make way for the new G20 generation of the 3 Series.
Model Years
- 2011: Introduction of F20/F21
- 2015: Facelift with updated styling and features
- 2017: Addition of more efficient engines and transmission options
- 2019: Discontinuation of both models
