The fantastic 2004 Goodwood Revival took place last weekend. In amongst the fancy dress and classic cars we spotted a solitary 1-series in the BMW area, giving us our first opportunity to give it a good going over.

A lot of people have moaned about the styling of the new 1-series, but I must say that the car looks so much better in the metal than in photographs. The rear end in particular is distinctive and sharp, and the front even looks good, especially fitted with a body kit as the show car (a 120i Sport) was. The only bone of contention really is the curve joining front and rear wheel arches and the underside of the doors. It is not a small car though.

Judging by the interest in the car it is unlikely that BMW won't hit its sales targets. In the ten minutes I spent at the car, three people looking around the car admitted they had already ordered one. They were also more interested in space for golf clubs than the driving experience. It is quite a practical car, though the Audi A3 Sportback may have more room in the rear.

Elsewhere, it is BMW business as usual in the 1-series. The driving position is perfect, as are the ergonomics. Switchgear is well-damped and tactile to use. The show car was generously equipped and trimmed in soft leather. Unusually for BMW, carbon fibre was also used inside. The only item I could find fault with was the interior door handle - it is made from plastic, when an aluminium item would suit the car better.

We will hopefully be driving the new 1-series early in 2005, so watch out on the main Road Tests page for the review.

Shane O' Donoghue - 5 Sep 2004