The mid-life update includes a substantial redesign of the front and rear sections of the car, bringing it closer to the 2 Series Coupe and Convertible launched in the UK last year. All versions will now include the BMW Radio Professional package with iDrive, plus new options including radar-based cruise control and a more advanced parking assistant.

BMW has also comprehensively updated the engine range, adding three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol and diesel units shared with the new MINI Cooper.  The 108bhp 116i returns 56.5mpg and emits 113g/km CO2, while the 116d produces 115bhp and returns 78.5mpg with 97g/km emissions, or 83.1mpg and 89g/km for the 116d Efficient Dynamics.

Diesel options also comprise three versions of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit, with fuel economy from 65.7mpg for the 221bhp 125d to 74.3mpg for the 148bhp 118d. An eight-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox will be available on the 125d, 120d xDrive and M135i xDrive.

The new BMW 1 Series will go on sale from the 28th March priced at £20,245  for a three-door 118i SE and £20,775 for a five-door 118i SE.

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