Car

BMW 1 Series F20 (2011-2019) – The Last Rear-Wheel Drive Hatchback Legend

Introduction – When BMW Transformed a Hatchback into a Performance Icon

In 2011, BMW introduced the 1 Series F20, the second generation of its premium hatchback lineup, continuing the success of the E81. However, the F20 was more than just a compact car—it was BMW’s last rear-wheel-drive (RWD) hatchback before the brand switched to FWD (front-wheel drive) with the F40 generation in 2019.

The BMW 1 Series F20 perfectly blended modern design, sporty driving dynamics, and advanced technology, making it a top choice for driving enthusiasts who also needed a practical daily driver.

Let’s explore the story behind the BMW 1 Series F20, one of the most beloved performance hatchbacks in Europe.

Design – Where Modern Meets Performance

The BMW 1 Series F20 featured a sleek and refined design, maintaining the signature BMW styling while improving aerodynamics and cabin space.

🔹 Larger kidney grilles, giving the car a more aggressive look.
🔹 Sharp headlights with LED or Xenon options, enhancing the sporty and premium feel.
🔹 Wider body with sculpted lines, optimizing aerodynamics.
🔹 Luxury interior with BMW iDrive system, touchscreen displays, and premium leather options.

More than just a hatchback, the F20 adopted the spirit of a sports coupe, making it stand out from competitors like the Audi A3, Mercedes A-Class, and Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Driving Experience – The Last RWD Performance Hatchback

The BMW 1 Series F20 was the last BMW hatchback to feature rear-wheel drive (RWD), making it a unique model in its segment.

🔥 Notable engine variants:

✅ 116i & 118i (1.5L petrol – 109-136 HP) – Fuel-efficient but still sporty.
✅ 120i & 125i (2.0L petrol – 184-224 HP) – A balance between power and everyday usability.
✅ M135i & M140i (3.0L I6 – 320-340 HP) – The high-performance models, considered "M Performance hatchbacks."

Why Was the F20 a Thrill to Drive?

✔️ Rear-wheel drive (RWD) – Offering an authentic driving feel, unlike FWD rivals such as the Golf GTI or Civic Type R.
✔️ Near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, ensuring precise cornering.
✔️ Adaptive suspension with Comfort, Sport, and Eco modes, allowing personalized driving dynamics.
✔️ 8-speed ZF automatic or 6-speed manual transmission, maximizing driving excitement.

Thanks to these features, the BMW 1 Series F20 was not just a hatchback for commuting—it was a car designed for those who love to drive.

BMW M135i & M140i – When a Hatchback Rivals Supercars

Among all F20 models, the BMW M135i and M140i were the most powerful versions, developed by BMW’s M Performance division.

🔹 M135i (2012-2016) – 3.0L N55 turbo I6, 320 HP, 450Nm, 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
🔹 M140i (2016-2019) – 3.0L B58 turbo I6, 340 HP, 500Nm, 0-100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, rivaling many supercars.
🔹 Outstanding drift capability, thanks to RWD and Sport+ mode.

These models made the F20 the fastest BMW hatchback ever, positioning it as one of the most powerful hot hatches in history, competing with the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-AMG A45.

BMW 1 Series F20 vs. Its Hot Hatch Rivals

Upon release, the BMW 1 Series F20 entered a fierce competition with top-performing hot hatches:

🔥 Volkswagen Golf R – AWD but lacked the pure driving feel of BMW.
🔥 Audi S3 / RS3 – Fast but relied on Quattro AWD, lacking the raw RWD experience.
🔥 Mercedes-AMG A45 – More powerful but lacked BMW M140i’s driving finesse.

The F20 might not have been the most powerful hatchback, but it was the only one to offer true BMW driving dynamics, making it a cult favorite among driving enthusiasts.

BMW 1 Series F20 Today – A Highly Sought-After Model

Even though BMW transitioned to FWD with the F40 generation in 2019, the F20 remains one of the most desired models among BMW fans.

✅ Strong resale value, especially for M135i and M140i versions.
✅ Highly modifiable, with engine, suspension, and widebody upgrades readily available.
✅ Large BMW tuning community, making F20 modifications and parts easily accessible.

The F20 is more than just a daily driver—it’s a piece of BMW history, one of the last hatchbacks to retain the true spirit of BMW driving.