BMW 1 Series Convertible (E88 LCI, facelift 2011) 118i (143 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.8 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 3.7 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW 1 Series:

The BMW 1 Series is a range of subcompact executive cars manufactured by BMW since 2004. It is the successor to the BMW 3 Series Compact and is currently in its fourth generation. Positioned as the entry-level model in BMW range of products, the first generation was produced in hatchback, coupé and convertible body styles.
Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed separately as the 2 Series, therefore the 1 Series range no longer includes these body styles. A four-door sedan model became available for the Chinese market in 2017, using the front-wheel drive platform that is also used the basis for the third-generation 1 Series hatchback....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Convertible (E88 LCI, facelift 2011) Overview:

BMW 1 Series (Convertible (E88 LCI, facelift 2011)). With 190 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.4 l/100km). With a weight of 1420 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.3 s). The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

118i (143 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Entry-level petrol with modest power, best suited for relaxed driving. Requires revs to extract performance.

Fuel Economy

Good fuel economy for a petrol engine, making it an affordable option for those not seeking high performance.

Best Use Case: City driving, economical cruising, drivers prioritizing lower running costs.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Engaging RWD driving dynamics and handling.
  • • Wide range of powerful and efficient engines, including iconic straight-six petrols and torquey diesels.
  • • Premium interior quality and build.
  • • Open-top driving experience with a relatively compact footprint.
  • • Timeless BMW design, especially post-facelift.

Cons:

  • • Limited rear passenger space, especially for adults.
  • • Smaller boot space compared to coupe or hatchback variants.
  • • Firm ride quality might not appeal to all.
  • • Higher running costs and potential for common BMW maintenance issues.
  • • Soft-top roof offers less sound insulation than a hardtop.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Hatchback 3dr (E81): 2009 - 2011).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:1 Series
Generation:Convertible (E88 LCI, facelift 2011)
Modification (Engine):118i (143 Hp)
Start of production:2011
End of production:2013
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Cabriolet
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:143 Hp @ 6000 rpm.
Power per litre:71.7 Hp/l
Torque:190 Nm @ 4250 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:N43B20A [Same engine] More details about the engine N43B20A
Engine displacement:1995
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Direct injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:4.25 l
Coolant:7.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm mm
Piston Stroke:90 mm mm
Compression ratio:12:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:6.5 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.3 sec
Maximum speed:210 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.9 kg/Hp, 100.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.5 kg/Nm, 133.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1420
Max. weight:1860
Max load:440
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:305 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:260 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1200 kg
Fuel tank capacity:53 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:670 kg
Permitted towbar download:75 kg
Size:
Length:4360 mm mm [121mm more]
Width:1748 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1411 mm mm [10mm less]
Wheelbase:2660 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1484 mm
Rear (Back) track:1517 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):140 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.7 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size195/55 R16 87H
Wheel rims size6.5J x 16
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

Does the BMW 1 Series live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!