2011 BMW 1 Series (F20) Photos, engines & full specs

BMW introduced the second generation of the 1 Series in 2011, continuing to threaten other premium car manufacturers that dared to compete in this segment. But unlike any of them, the Bimmer was the only one in its class with a rear-wheel-drive platform, which was a plus and a minus at the same time.

When Audi introduced the A3 on the market in the '90s, it was almost alone in the segment. Mercedes-Benz had the A-Class, but that was a small-sized MPV, not a hatchback. Then BMW joined the bandwagon with the first generation of the 1 Series in 2004 and changed the rules of the game by introducing the RWD-based small-sized premium vehicle. And, when that wasn't enough, it brought the all-wheel-drive versions into discussion when it launched the second generation of the 1 Series, also known as the F20.

Placing such a big front fascia on a small vehicle was considered not exactly elegant, but BMW knew its customers, and it knew that they wanted to have the kidney-grille large enough to be seen by other drivers in their rearview mirrors. Moreover, the headlights' design followed the same design language as the rest of BMW's range, with narrow inner sides and the famous “angel-eye” daytime running lights inside the headlamps. On the bumper, depending on the version, the German automaker installed a set of air intakes on the sides where the fog lamps were fitted. From its sides, the cab-rearward design was obvious thanks mostly to the long and low hood, made to accommodate inline-six engines underneath it. The sculptured door panels featured an ascending line that started from the front wheels and emerged onto the C-pillars. Finally, at the back, the automaker created a tilted forward tailgate adorned with a small roof spoiler on top. Depending on the engine version, underneath the rear bumper, BMW installed a twin or a single exhaust pipe.

Inside, the best seats in the house were at the front. Even the base models featured bolstered seats, and the automaker offered the F20 with a set of high-bolstered ones in the M-Package, which featured adjustable lengths and high-bolstered areas. In front of the driver, the dashboard design was simple and clear, with two dials for the tachometer and speedometer and two smaller ones for the fuel level and engine temperature. On the center stack, again, depending on the options, BMW placed the screen for the infotainment unit that could've been controlled via the rotary knob housed by the center console. In the back, there was hardly enough legroom for three rear passengers, especially since the transmission tunnel crossed the car from front to back.

Under the hood, BMW installed a wide engine range, either gasoline or turbodiesel. These were paired with six-speed manuals or, as an option, with an eight-speed automatic. Depending on the engine version, the car promised excellent fuel efficiency and plenty of fun behind the wheel.