The F70 BMW 116 M Sport isn't basic and shows us why joy can still be found in the simple things
If you've noticed, BMW has dropped the 'i' suffix from the model name (starting with this F70 1 Series), which helps keep things simple.
Up to most recently, the 'i' stood for fuel injection. This may have been a novelty back in the day when the automotive world transitioned from carburetors, but given every modern car is now fuel-injected, the use of the 'i' is rather redundant in this day and age.
Instead, the brand has decided to apply the 'i' exclusively to its electrified models.
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Keeping things simple is great for us old school petrolheads, especially considering how complex modern cars have become.
The Cat A category 116 hatchback may be the base of the bunch, but it is adorned in dynamic M Sport trim trappings for even sportier visuals.
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It features a front apron with extra-large air intakes, M specific side-skirts and a rear apron with a three-dimensional diffuser element.
In addition, the front, side, and rear sections are linked by a black body surround, with 18-inch 'Y-spoke' M light alloy wheels topping things off.
Inside the tastefully appointed cabin, the M Sport Package features M's familiar tri-colour stitching on the dashboard, a chunky M leather steering wheel and tobacco brown 'Veganza' sport seats, in addition to the plethora of equipment.
Other M Sport design elements include an anthracite roof liner, M specific displays on the information display, an M pedal set and interior trim in aluminium hexacube matte.
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There's certainly enough tech for the gear patrol as well, as the 116's iDrive UI is underpinned by the brand's OS9 and BMW's familiar Curved Display instrumentation.
With a peppy turbocharged 1.5-litre 3-cylinder engine producing 122hp and 230Nm under its bonnet, the 116 (don't be misled by the 118 licence plate!) delivers a tight and honest drive experience that will see it acquit itself well for city slicker duty.
Besides, the 1.5-litre's relatively low annual road tax (~$684) versus an equivalent EV's road tax is a good compromise that works with the 116's urban-wanderer credentials to create a compelling package to run and own.
It may not be a firecracker in the same vein as its storming M135 xDrive big brother, but the fourth generation 1 Series has come into its own with large-car comfort and refinement for up to five adults, all bundled-up in a chirpy, compact shape.
Notice no one ever talks about an ICE car's range, but the 116 will easily do 600km on a full tank. Besides, with average top-up times in about 2.5mins, it's a cinch even if you're running on fumes.
Point is, you won't need to be a slave to this machine by planning recharge stops and contingency plans, you just pull-over, pump and be on your merry way.
With an interior and boot-space (from 380-litres with the rear seats up to 1200-litres with them flat) that is well-sized for the whole family, it's a great companion on road trips.
BMW is one of those enlightened brands that continue to offer different powertrain solutions. The ultimate goal is low- to zero-emissions, and this shouldn't be conflated with going electric.
EVs are just one of the possible solutions, not the be-all-end-all, so buy one only if it suits your commuting needs, rather than due to any mistaken sense of altruism, or worse, giving in to the hysteria.
This '1' may be front-drive, but there's a surprising level of engagement once you're at its helm and turning a wheel in anger.
There's a nice vigour to the 116's dynamics and an innate manoeuvrability that lends itself well to urban commutes, especially given the cut-thrust-parry of peak hour traffic.
Yet, it's never too small to be noticed, thanks to its pocket-rocket-esque road presence and performance.
The 116 M Sport proves that good things can come in a small package, especially given its urban-bred combination of performance and practicality.
Best of all, this baby Bimmer doesn't feel like just another 'white good' appliance.
BMW 116 M Sport
Engine 1499cc, inline3, turbocharged
Power 122hp at 3900 - 6500rpm
Torque 230Nm at 1500 - 3600rpm
Transmission 7spd dual-clutch Steptronic auto
0-100km/h 9.8secs
Top Speed 210km/h
