What do you think of this BMW 1 Series?
I'm interested in this 2009 1 Series BMW on Carzone.ie. Are there any issues of note with this import?
Thanks
Una O'Connor (Dublin)Oct 2013 Filed under: choosing used car
Expert answer
Hi Una,
A good, solid car the 1 Series, but there are a few issues to look for. Watch for front tracking problems or even problems with the steering rack itself - excessive front tyre wear is the giveaway. All 1 Series gearboxes feel a bit stiff but one that's especially obstructive could be on the way out. Electric windows can seize (thankfully usually in the shut position) and airbag faults are common, but there'll be a dash warning light for those. Make sure that the traction control is working too, as it can fail and shut down entirely. There were a few recalls, for rear axle problems, seatbelt and pre tensioner issues and for the brake booster so make sure the work has already been done by checking with a dealer.
And for an import, we'd urge you pay for a Cartell.ie history check.
Hope that all helps
Is there a front-wheel drive BMW coming?
When does the front-wheel drive BMW 1 Series go into production in right-hand drive?
Ian Mckenzie (Grays/essex)Aug 2012 Filed under: future cars
Expert answer
Hi Ian,
BMW hasn't even confirmed production for this car as yet. However, we did manage to find out that there will be a concept at the Paris Motor Show at the end of next month in this vein. No doubt it'll be called the BMW 1 Series Gran Turismo Concept or something else cryptic like that...
Watch this space for more.
What mileage does the BMW 316i SE do?
Hi,
I am considering buying a 2008 BMW 316i se petrol. Any idea roughly what the mpg of this car might be (the dealer told me 49mpg)? I've trawled the net with not much luck. I do approx 13.5k miles per year, would I be better off with a diesel? Your advice is appreciated.
Thanks Gavin (Tipperary)
Gavin O Connor (Roscrea)Oct 2011 Filed under: running costs
Expert answer
Hi Gavin,
49mpg would be pretty ambitious and far fetched in a 316i. The official figure was 38mpg for the 316i and to get that you would be doing well. About 34-35mpg would be about right. A diesel will do better mileage, but if you want a 3 Series you will pay more for it and probably not make up the difference. The only thing I would say is that the 316i is not very fast and this can become bothersome on high mileage My advice? Consider a BMW 1 Series with a decent diesel engine instead.
Audi A3 or Lexus CT 200h?
Hi,
I have a 2007 Toyota Auris Terra diesel that I am trading in. It has 87,000km on the clock and is in excellent condition. What it is worth? I was thinking of getting an Audi A3 Sportback 1.6 TDI S line or the Lexus CT 200h S Design. I found the suspension hard in the Lexus. Which would you recommend?
Martina Kerins (Cork)Jun 2011 Filed under: choosing new car
Expert answer
Hi Martina,
My feeling is that you will be offered between €10,000 - €11,000 for your Auris against either of these new cars and it's likely that your Lexus dealer will offer you the better deal. The Audi A3 is nearing the end of its life cycle, and while I like it a lot, it is due to be replaced so that will mean its value will reduce. The Lexus is really well priced and comes well equipped, but the ride quality is a little patchy at times. The S Design grade has 16-inch alloys so they aren't even the largest alloy wheel available. The car is great value though.
By the sounds of things you want something that is frugal, looks good and is upmarket. To be honest, I would probably have a Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI DSG Edition-R, which has all the toys on it, looks awesome and has just been released on to the market. This costs €26,425.
Alternatively, you could get a good deal on a BMW 1 Series, which is about to be replaced. Let us know if this helps, but I'd choose the Golf, then the Lexus, then the A3.