BMW 1 Series LCI introduced in Malaysia
BMW’s Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) update of the second-generation F20 1 Series, the last iteration of the name plate to operate rear-wheel drive underpinnings, is officially introduced in Malaysia. Assembled locally in Kulim, Kedah, the F20 is now offered in our market with only one variant to choose from, a highly-kitted 120i M Sport going for RM219,800 on-the-road without insurance.
Previously, the pre-LCI F20 was offered with a choice of three variants consisting of the locally-assembled 116i and 118i alongside the fully-imported 125i priced from RM170,800 to RM253,800. Transitioning to the LCI model, BMW Group Malaysia has opted to ditch the entry model, citing poor demand, and has upgraded the 118i to create the more aggressively-specced 120i M Sport.
Despite its ’20i’ badging, the 1 Series family’s sole representative in our market is powered by a 1.6-litre engine, which is carried over from the pre-LCI model. Compared to the 118i variant it replaces, the 120i enjoys a 7hp increase in outputs of turbocharged powerplant to push out 177hp which it generates from 4,800 to 6,450rpm. Torque remains the same, however, with 250Nm available between 1,500 and 4,500rpm.
Paired with BMW’s excellent ZF 8HP automatic transmission as standard, the 120i accelerates from rest to 100kph in just 7.2 seconds en route to a top speed of 222kph. Average fuel consumption on the combined cycle is rated at 5.9 l/100km, corresponding to carbon dioxide emissions of 137 g/km.
Like the X3 LCI that was launched last year, revisions to the F20’s appearance are substantial by the standards of BMW’s usual practice that generally prefers making subtle alterations. Redesigned headlamps now sport full adaptive LED illumination with distinctive day time running lights. At the rear, the new tail light cluster is now widened and lights up with the BMW L-shaped signature design.
Inside, the 120i boasts the full range of mobility services through BMW ConnectedDrive, channeled through the largest-in-class 8.8-inch free standing central screen. With a smartphone connected, services such as Spotify, Amazon Cloud Player, and others are accessible via the BMW Apps menu. Also standard are satellite navigation and keyless entry.
The standard M Sport package fitted to the 120i M Sport includes the M Aerodynamic kit, M leather steering wheel, 18-inch M Sport alloy wheels, and M Sport suspension. A range of M Performance parts are available as optional fitment for owners that want to further enhance the sporting appearance and characteristics of their vehicle.
As with all BMW vehicles sold in Malaysia after 1 June, the new 120i M Sport is covered by a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty along with a 5-year / 100,000km free maintenance programme.
Gallery: BMW 120i M Sport
BMW 120i M Sport with M Performance accessories
