Last October I tested BMW’s 120i and, like any hack, I wanted more power. In the case of the 120i petrol version, both automatic and manual versions reflected a lack of grunt and I waited patiently for the diesel version to arrive.
Finally, a magnificent 120d arrived for testing, fitted with the optional 17-inch alloy wheels and electronic sliding sunroof. Similar to the petrol model, it was also an automatic unit with a steptronic six-speed gearbox.
The first thing one notices once you hit the start button is that the diesel version is noisier than its petrol- fuelled sibling. There’s that familiar diesel clatter — but, like with most turbo diesels, it soon dies down once you have pulled away.
The diesel version offers 115kW, while the petrol version offers 110kW. The diesel also has more grunt than a pigsty and, with a whopping 330Nm of torque, is probably the more powerful of the 2,0 turbo diesel models on the market. The Golf TDi, in comparison, has 320Nm and the 120i has only 200Nm.
The 120d weighs a little more, tipping the scale at 1 350kg versus the 1 275kg of the 120i, but this is hardly noticeable.
What is apparent is the alarmingly brisk acceleration that the oil burner produces when driven enthusiastically. Thanks to the auto box, which I largely chose to leave in auto mode rather than steptronic mode, the turbo lag on the bottom end is hardly noticeable. The 120d easily hit the 100kph mark from standstill in just less than nine seconds, and the advertised top speed of 215kph seems realistic enough, although I didn’t push the 120d much past the legal limit as there’s always a speed trap somewhere.
Overtaking performance is good, with 120kph from 80kph taking a mere 6,6 seconds. Unlike many other units on the road, the camshafts are driven by a chain designed to last as long as the engine. This renders the expensive and time-consuming task of replacing the toothed belt unnecessary.
What I didn’t achieve was the low consumption claimed by the Bavarian automaker. City driving yielded figures of around 9,4 litres per 100km versus the claimed 8,7 litres per 100km, while highway cruising saw 6,6 litres flow through the injectors, up from the claimed 5,5 litres. That, in itself, is still excellent and you’ll get halfway to Cape Town from Gauteng on a 50 litre tank of fuel.
The handling is superb and the few extra kilograms placed on the front wheels make little difference in tight corners. With the optional 17-inch alloys, the ride is a little choppier, but steering response is slightly enhanced thanks to reduced sidewall movement on the 205/50 series tyres. There’s very progressive sliding at higher speeds, which gives the driver fair warning that the baby Beemer is nearing its adhesion limits.
To help with all this, there’s a large selection of electronic aids to keep you firmly planted on the road. Besides mandatory ABS (anti-lock braking system), there’s also traction control, which is great in wet conditions, as well as emergency brake detection, electronic differential lock and cornering brake assist. All this, together with the six airbags is the reason why the BMW 1-series received a five-star Euro NCAP rating.
The interior remains largely unchanged, while the multi-function steering wheel, which is both height- and reach-adjustable, allows you to control the audio system without taking your eyes off the road. The optional aluminium trimmings add a touch of class to the cockpit, while the standard fitment list is both comprehensive and opulent. Entry and exit is via a keyless remote, and pressing the lock button when exiting not only raises the windows, but closes the sunroof too. Rear passenger space is adequate and the boot can be expanded by folding the rear seats down.
The 120d has a few drawbacks. Like its sisters in the range, it does not have a spare wheel, but relies on run-flat technology, tyre-pressure monitors and a puncture kit to keep you going should tyre problems occur. In our crime-ridden country it’s not the ideal solution. The lack of a temperature gauge is also a negative mark.
The 120d auto/steptronic retails for R248 000 with no extras and comes standard with a five-year/ 100 000km Motorplan. The 120d manual retails for R235 000, which is R20 000 more expensive than the petrol version. The diesel version is a finer vehicle, assuming you don’t mind the clutter.
The two smaller cousins, the 116i and the 118i retail at R190 000 and R200 000 respectively.