BMW is a leading producer of luxury cars with exceptional performance and handling. Whether you select a big car like the BMW X7 SUV, or a small one such as the BMW 116i, you will still enjoy the ride and luxurious features of BMW.
The BMW 116i is a 5-door hatchback with many fascinating features. It has a simple but elegant design that commands attention. The interior is also luxurious and it can accommodate up to five passengers. Despite its small engine, this compact hatchback performs outstandingly and competes favorably with the likes of the Mercedes A-Class.
History of the BMW 116i
BMW 116i is part of the BMW 1-Series, which was introduced into the market in 2004. Furthermore, it was one of the first models to be produced under the 1-Series. Other models were the 116d, 118i, 118d, 120i, 120d, 123d, and 130i.
Additionally, the BMW 116i was produced between 2004 and 2011, before being replaced by the BMW F20, which was produced from 2011 to 2019. Besides, the 2004 to 20011 116i was fitted with an N45, engine, which was reliable and powerful for its size. Note the 116i is the petrol version, while the 116d is the diesel version.
Features of the BMW 116i
Appearance
The BMW 116i comes with a simple yet elegant exterior design. Thanks to the flowing lines and curvy headlights that make it look spectacular. The interior is also luxurious with quality materials and a sleek infotainment system. On top of that, it has a spacious cabin and ample cargo area for keeping your luggage.
Performance
This car has been powered by three different engines during its 7 years in production. From 2004 to 2011, it was powered by a 1.6-liter N45 inline-4 engine. This engine delivers a maximum of 114 hp and 111 lb-ft of torque. While from 2007 to 2011, it was fitted with a 1.6-liter N43 inline-4 engine.
The N43 engine was slightly more powerful than the N45 engine as it delivered a maximum of 121 hp and 118 lb-ft of torque. From 2009 to 2011, the car was equipped with a 2.0-liter N43 inline-4 engine that produced up to 121 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque.
Comfort ad cargo space
Don’t let the small size of the BMW 116i fool you. This car is very spacious as it can accommodate up to five individuals. And since it is a hatchback, tall people may find the cabin comfortable as they won’t have to sink in their seats to avoid hitting the road like when in a sedan.
On top of the spacious cabin, this compact hatchback also comes with ample cargo space that can fit a handful of luggage. Besides, when the rear seat is not in use, it can be folded to increase cargo space.
Fuel-efficiency
This car is very fuel-efficient as it returns about 50 mpg, which is very impressive. It has the same fuel-efficiency rating as the BMW 114i and 118i. Its larger siblings with bigger engines like the 120i have a rating of 47.1 mpg and the 125i model has 42.2 mpg.
Price
With a base price of around $32,000, the BMW 116i is very affordable. You can get even a cheaper deal if you hit the used car market. Nevertheless, if you decide to pick from the used car market, ensure you’re getting a reliable car as you don’t want to spend your hard-earned money at the repair shop.
FAQ
Is the BMW 116i worth buying?
If you want to have the ultimate driving experience but can’t afford the high-end BMW models, the BMW 116i is the perfect car for you. Additionally, it is comfortable and fuel-efficient, meaning that you won’t spend a lot on fuel. But if you prefer a more powerful and spacious car, then the BMW 116i is not for you.
What are the common problems with the BMW 116i?
If you already have the BMW 116i or intend to purchase one, it is important to know some of the issues that you’re likely to face so that you’re not caught off-guard. The common BMW 116i problems are power steering failure, door handle problems, fuel pump failure, leaking EGR module, engine stalling, and much more.
Even though these problems are common on the BMW 116i, not all of them are found on a single model. Some may be on the 2004 model year, while others may be on the 2008 model year. If you properly service and maintain your car properly, you won’t experience most of these problems.
Is BMW 1-Series good for daily driving?
Yes, the BMW 1-Series, or specifically, the BMW 116i is a good daily driver. This is because the car is compact and will fit easily in traffic. Additionally, parking won’t be a problem as the car takes up very little space. And since it comes with an RWD system, the ride will be more enjoyable than a car with an FWD system.
What does it feel like to drive the BMW 116i?
The latest BMW 1-Series comes with a front-wheel drive as standard. However, that’s not the case with the old BMW 116i, which is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive system. Therefore, its ride feels more stable and quicker than BMW 1-Series fitted with an FWD system.
Which car is better – BMW 1-Series or Mercedes A-Class?
The Mercedes A-Class hatchback and BMW 1-Series hatchback are both outstanding cars with excellent performance and comfort. Nonetheless, if you desire sheer comfort, luxury, and opulence, the Mercedes A-Class is the car for you. But if you want performance, better handling, and fuel efficiency, BMW 1-Series is the best.
Summary
Generally, the BMW 116i is an elegant, powerful, practical, comfortable, and reliable car. But like any car, it also has some issues that users should expect to encounter, such as fuel pump failure, transmission issues, door handle problems, and engine problems.
Unlike the latest cars, this car comes with a rear-wheel-drive system, which is vital in tough conditions like snow or ice. Overall, it is an excellent car with lots of exceptional features to offer interested buyers.
