Getting started with BMW 1 Series: XXL screen for futuristic cockpit

[ad_1]

9

The third restyling for the BMW 1 Series gives up propulsion in favor of traction. It gains in habitability, but also a double digital screen and a head-up system. Voice commands and gestures are essential.

Appearing in 2004, the BMW 1 Series has managed to find a place in the sun despite the aura of the 3 Series. As proof, almost 2,490,803 units have been sold, all generations combined. BMW hopes to renew its success with this third generation (F40) which is likely to surprise aficionados of this new model. Indeed, two size changes characterize this Series 1 which does not take anything from the previous model. First change, the use of the "UKL" platform found on the X1, X2, Active Tourer Series, but also on the Mini.

The second change, the most important, is the abandonment of propulsion for traction and the famous melodious 6 cylinders. Instead, 3-cylinder 1.5l (140 hp for the 118i and 116 hp for the 116d) and 4-cylinder 2.0l (150 hp for the 118d, 190 hp for the 120d xDrive and 306 hp for the M135i xDrive) engines .As a result, the passenger space increased by 33 mm for the legs of the rear passengers, by 13 mm for the elbow space, while the boot space gained 20 liters, going from 360 to 380 liters, seat not folded down.

But the dimensions also gained 34 mm (1.79 m) in terms of width and 13 mm (1.43 m) in height. On the other hand, in terms of length, there is a reduction of 10 mm (4.31 m). On the scale, the BMW has an empty weight of 1,290 kg (version 118i), 30 kg less than the previous version.

Aesthetically, the BMW 1 Series detonates with its grille and huge nostrils, the new trend of the brand launched on the X7 – we like it or not.The headlights more open and rising on the sides of the wings give it a threatening air. Seen from the back, this Series 1 is "menacing" with its pleated lights and two tailpipes. In profile, we find this "shark nose", characteristic signature of the brand although we regret the choice of the short engine hood at the expense of the old, longer one. Finally, our BMW is a real ball of nerves, ready to pounce.

Cockpit of the future, but not too much

Once installed on board, we find this quality of finish which makes the reputation of the brand. Naturally, the part of the dashboard including the main touch screen is fully turned towards the driver. A constant at BMW.

In front of the driver, a three-spoke steering wheel on which are displayed the direct access controls, the audio section and the voice assistant on the right, the on-board computer and the driving aids on the left. The idea of ​​course is not to distract the driver while driving.

Like the BMW range, this 1 Series is not immune to digitization, for a fee. To stay in the wind and surf modernity, it will cost you € 1,250 (standard on Sport and Business Design versions) to own a digital instrument cluster with a 5.7-inch screen (diagonal of 14, 47 cm, definition of 640 x 160 pixels). But if it turns out to be too small, there is the Live Cockpit Navigation Pro option (€ 2,450 except on Luxury and M Sport versions) which allows you to benefit from a 12.3 inch handset (diagonal of 31.24 cm ).

If the display possibilities are less "rich" in terms of personalization compared to the Virtual Cockpit signed Audi, the BMW Live Cockpit is just as spectacular to watch.

Depending on the driving mode chosen (Sport, Comfort or Eco Pro), the display color differs. The various information appears segmented into 3 activity zones: on the left, the instantaneous speed, in the middle, the navigation in simplified mode, and on the right the tachometer.

If BMW’s intention is to preserve ease of use and accessibility to information, the fact remains that the whole is sometimes indigestible: information tends to overlap, making readability complicated. The solution: the head-up system (head display in English) in color, billed at € 910 (included in the Navigation Pack), where just the essentials are displayed, namely the instantaneous speed, the speed limit, the driving directions using directional arrows and the aids the driving.

The wheel, control tower of the XXL screen

Depending on the option – paid – chosen (Live Cockpit Navigation Plus or Live Cockpit Navigation Pro), the size of the touch screen positioned on the dashboard varies: 8.8 inches (diagonal of 22.35 cm, definition of 1 280 x 480 pixels) or 10.3 inches (26.12 cm diagonal, definition of 1,920 x 720 mpixels). This screen is controlled from the wheel located at the gearbox. It allows the driver to control all of the vehicle-related functionalities (navigation, radio, music, Internet, CarPlay, calendar, emails, calendar, vehicle settings, etc.).

More and more automakers are making their main screen a replica of a smartphone screen. BMW is no exception to the rule since it is possible to display up to ten different screens with each one for your favorite icons. With "Live Cockpit Navigation Pro", we benefit from version 7.0 of the proprietary OS versus 6.0 for "Live Cockpit Navigation Plus". As a result, more functionalities such as gestural technology (option at € 310) allowing certain commands to be carried out by movements of the hand. Rotate your index finger in one direction toward the screen and the audio volume increases; conversely, you can lower it. Got a phone call? A simple hand swipe will refuse the call.

IPA at your service, what can I do for you?

Today, each manufacturer must have their own personal assistant or intelligent personal assistant (IPA). It is triggered by a phrase or a keyword. In the case of Series 1, just say "Hey bmw"or any other word – only BMW offers personalization. Behind this technology is Cerence (Nuance Communications), the specialist in on-board voice assistant.

More than a simple performer knowing how to activate the radio, adjust the heating or air conditioning,intelligent personal assistant is able to learn the habits of its driver. Thus, he will know your favorite radio station, your favorite route with the possibility of offering alternatives in the event of a problem on the road and the most frequently called telephone numbers. Even stronger, this personal assistant turns into "Madame or Monsieur well-being" by triggering the Caring Car Vitalize or Relax programs. In addition to relaxing music, the driver also has adequate temperature and ambient light.

ConnectedDrive, true to the job

We find the health home smart health connected service, ConnectedDrive. For the uninitiated, this is a package of services available via mobile applications. Thanks to him, the owner of the car remains smart health connected via an eSIM card – the car also serves as a Wi-Fi hotspot. On the menu, Deezer for music, real-time traffic information or Microsoft Office 365 are just a few examples of the possibilities offered.

Finally, let's not forget CarPlay, available in Wi-Fi version. In this regard, BMW has recently backtracked on the subscription of 110 € / year. Only the integration remains chargeable, at 300 €. Since we are talking about smartphones, the Series 1 allows recharging by induction (€ 460). Otherwise still no Android Auto, for now.

Another use of the smartphone is the Digital Key function (510 € or included in the Comfort Pack). This mobile application, available only on Android, transforms your smartphone via NFC technology into a virtual key. So you can unlock or lock your BMW, and even start it – once on board.

Free, but above all paid, driving aids

Like the entire range, the 1 Series includes a variety of driving aids, all of which can be disconnected. If, basic, the allocation – free – includes the lane departure warning with a return in direction, the active pedestrian collision warning and a "low speed collision avoidance system", to have more, you have to take out the wallet.

To benefit from the intelligent cruise control (ACC +) plus the Stop & Go function, it will cost € 760. Also included: the front collision risk alert with emergency braking, the Speed ​​Limit Assist (adaptation to changes in speed limit) and the emergency pre-braking system (iBrake).For an additional € 760, you can benefit from the blind spot warning (BLIS), the front and rear collision warning and the rear transverse traffic warning. As for the Park Assist with reversing camera and autoreverse function, it is invoiced at € 960.

Costly, but effective and stunning, this driving aid allows you to reverse the last 50 meters at a maximum speed of 36 km / h. Even the gymkhanas are swallowed like Christmas chocolates. Only imperative, have an eye on the screen and the foot near the brake. From now on, tight parking exits will no longer be synonymous with crumpled fenders or damaged rims.

Balance sheet

We will not pass judgment on the transition from propulsion to traction, we leave that to specialists in the genre – although nothing will match the 6 cylinders. BMW, on the other hand, was once again strong in terms of connectivity, infotainment and driver assistance. A real smartphone on four wheels without falling into the complexity of use. On the other hand, the price of these technologies is rather salty with regard to the price of the car, from € 27,150 without option (116d 116 ch BVM6).

[ad_2]