BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019): Redefining Style and Performance

I’ve spent enough miles in the BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019) to know where it shines and where it pokes you in the ribs. First thing you notice? Balance. That classic BMW rear-wheel-drive feel is there, even when you’re just looping around town for groceries. And when I tried it on rough roads, particularly in an M Sport on run-flats, I felt the usual BMW trade-off: taut and tidy, occasionally a touch firm. But give it a curvy B-road and it makes you grin like you’ve nicked your dad’s keys.

Why the BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019) still matters

In a class of front-drive all-rounders, the BMW 1 Series F20 did something different: it put the engine north-south and sent power to the rear wheels. That one decision gives the car a special feel—light steering that still talks, a composed rear, and a willingness to play when the road clears. The hot one, the M135i, is a genuine sleeper: subtle outside, ridiculous pace inside.

BMW 1 Series F20 highlights and real-world numbers

• Engines: petrol (116i, 118i, 120i, 125i, M135i) and diesel (114d to 125d). No, there wasn’t an electric F20—people often confuse it with the separate BMW i3.
• Power: from 109 hp (114d) to 316 hp (M135i) with up to 450 Nm in the 125d.
• 0–60 mph: mid-10s (116d) down to roughly 4.8–5.1 seconds (M135i, depending on spec).
• Economy: diesels can nudge 60+ mpg (UK) on a gentle run; petrols mid-30s, give or take.
• Boot: about 360 liters—plenty for a weekly shop or a weekend away, seats down for IKEA runs.

History and updates: BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019)

Launched in 2011 as the successor to the E87 5-door, the F20 sharpened the formula with a roomier cabin, better infotainment, and a broader engine lineup. In 2015, the LCI (facelift) arrived with cleaner styling front and rear, improved lights, updated iDrive, and some cabin material upgrades. Later cars offered slicker driver assists and, depending on the market, Apple CarPlay became available as an option.

Living with it: space, comfort, and everyday quirks

I noticed right away how “grown-up” it feels at motorway speed—quiet enough to hear your kids fighting in the back, which, honestly, isn’t always a feature. The rear seats are fine for adults on short hops, a touch tight for taller folks on long ones. The driving position is spot-on once you drop the seat; visibility is okay, though the thick A-pillars can nibble at your sightlines at junctions.

• Ride: standard cars are comfortable; M Sport trims on 18-inch wheels with run-flats can be firm on broken city streets.
• Infotainment: iDrive is intuitive once you learn its logic. Early systems feel dated today; LCI cars are nicer to live with.
• Lights: base halogens are meh; the upgraded LEDs are worth hunting down.

Parts and accessories for the BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019)

There’s a deep aftermarket for the BMW 1 Series F20—from subtle performance upgrades to cosmetic tweaks. If you’re starting inside, floor protection is the first thing I recommend. Why? Because a good set of mats stops winter muck, coffee catastrophes, and beach sand from turning your carpets into a crime scene.

Floor mats: the smartest interior upgrade for your BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019)

I’ve tested a few, and AutoWin’s tailored sets fit properly around the pedals and seat rails (you’d be amazed how many don’t). Materials range from rugged rubber to plush carpet, and the heel pad makes a difference on longer drives. They clip in, stay flat, and clean up with a quick hose-down or vacuum.

• Precise F20 fitment—no bunching under the pedals.
• Easy to clean after ski weekends or muddy dog walks.
• Available in colors that actually suit BMW interiors (not just “taxi black”).

Reliability: what’s solid, what to watch

Overall reliability is good if serviced properly. The 8-speed ZF auto is a gem—smooth, tough, and worth seeking out. A few notes from my own experience and owners I’ve spoken to:

• Diesel timing chains: early N47 diesels (pre-LCI especially) can have timing chain wear. Listen for rattles on cold start; evidence of replacement is a plus.
• Later B47 diesels are improved. Petrols are generally robust; occasional coil pack or sensor gremlins crop up.
• EGR and emissions parts: check for recall work on diesels.
• Run-flat tires can tramline and transmit noise; many owners switch to conventional tires with a mobility kit.
• Electrics: early iDrive can lag; check all infotainment functions and parking sensors. Battery health matters on cars that mostly do short trips.

Should you buy a used BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019)?

Short answer: yes, if you value driving feel and want something that isn’t just another front-drive hatch. Look for a full service history, calm cold starts, and tidy suspension (bushings and dampers can tire). The LCI cars (2015-on) feel fresher inside and have better lights. If you’re city-based, a 118i is sweet and frugal; if you do big miles, a 120d hits the sweet spot. For thrills, the M135i is still hilariously fast and discreet.

Interesting facts about the BMW 1 Series F20

• It was the last 1 Series to be rear-wheel drive—a rarity in the compact class.
• The 5-door layout made it a genuine family car without dulling the dynamics.
• BMW’s iDrive brought proper rotary-controlled infotainment to the segment—simple to use on the move.
• With its compact footprint, the F20 thrives in cities, yet feels planted on a fast motorway slog.

Verdict: the F20 is a future classic in waiting

The BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019) blends everyday usability with a chassis that still feels special. It’s the rare premium hatch that encourages a Sunday morning detour. Keep on top of maintenance and it’ll reward you daily. And if you want to keep the cabin looking box-fresh, a set of well-fitted floor mats from AutoWin is a small investment with a big payoff.

FAQ: BMW 1 Series F20 5-door Hatchback (2011-2019)

• Is the BMW 1 Series F20 reliable? Yes, with proper servicing. Watch early diesel timing chains, ensure recalls (like EGR) are done, and check suspension wear and iDrive functionality.
• Which engine should I pick? For balance: 120d (torque and economy). For city life: 118i. For thrills: M135i—fast, dependable, and discreet.
• Does the F20 have Apple CarPlay? Later LCI cars offered it as an option in some markets; earlier cars didn’t. Check the spec list or test it on-site.
• How big is the boot? Around 360 liters with seats up, expandable by folding the rear bench. Big shop? No problem.
• F20 vs F21—what’s the difference? F20 is the 5-door; F21 is the 3-door. Most interior accessories (like tailored floor mats) are shared across both.