BMW 1 Series alternatives & comparisons

Here you can find alternatives to the BMW 1 Series, based on existing comparison pages and popular model matchups. We currently show 6 suitable models as a starting point for your buying decision.

BMW 1 Series

Alternative models

These models are frequently compared with the BMW 1 Series and are good next research steps.

from £35,200
Formentor

CUPRA Formentor

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 390 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.4 - 10.1 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 117 - 126 km
details

CUPRA Formentor as a suitable alternative to BMW 1 Series

The BMW 1 Series and CUPRA Formentor go head-to-head in the compact class: BMW offers measured, premium hatchback handling while the Formentor answers with bold styling and racy crossover flair. Which one deserves your driveway — the corner-hugging pragmatist or the show-off with a sports streak — is exactly what we’re here to decide.

With coupe-like lines and a muscular stance the Cupra Formentor blends sporty drama with everyday sense, so it looks like it’s in motion even at a standstill. Inside and out it’s tuned for drivers who want engaging handling and a grown-up cabin — practical enough for daily life, playful enough to make the commute feel like a short track session.

Quick data check: CUPRA Formentor

  • visibly cheaper
  • clearly more power
  • substantially more efficient
  • somewhat quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly lighter
  • a bit more trunk space
Compare directly with CUPRA Formentor
from £31,500
2 Series Active Tourer

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 122 - 326 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.9 - 6.2 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 82 km
details

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer as a suitable alternative to BMW 1 Series

In the competitive landscape of premium compact cars, the BMW 1er Reihe and the BMW 2er Active Tourer showcase distinct strengths tailored to different driving needs. The 1er Reihe offers a sportier, more dynamic driving experience, emphasizing agility and performance, while the 2er Active Tourer prioritizes versatility and space with its MPV-inspired design. Ultimately, the choice between the two hinges on whether one values spirited performance or family-friendly practicality in their daily driving experience.

The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer turns the family MPV into something you’d actually want to park outside a café, pairing compact practicality with surprisingly premium cabin flair. It won’t thrill like a sports car, but it drives with the composed poise you expect from the badge and keeps daily life easy and un-fussy.

Quick data check: BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

  • barely cheaper
  • a bit quicker 0–100 km/h
  • marginally lighter
  • only slightly more power
  • considerably more efficient
  • slightly more trunk space
Compare directly with BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
from £35,200
Leon

CUPRA Leon

  • Engine Type : Diesel, Plugin Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 325 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.3 - 7.6 L/100km
  • Electric Range : 124 - 131 km
details

CUPRA Leon as a suitable alternative to BMW 1 Series

In the competitive landscape of hatchbacks, the BMW 1er Reihe and CUPRA León offer distinct driving experiences that cater to different enthusiasts. The BMW impresses with its refined build quality and luxury features, delivering a balanced ride that prioritizes comfort and sophistication. Meanwhile, the CUPRA León stands out with its sporty design and robust performance, appealing to those who crave a more dynamic and aggressive driving style.

The Cupra Leon blends sporting intent with everyday practicality, serving up sharp handling and a cabin that feels more premium than its hatchback looks might suggest. It's a driver's car in commuter clothing — lively, distinctive, and clever enough to make daily driving feel a little less routine without screaming for attention.

Quick data check: CUPRA Leon

  • markedly cheaper
  • slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • very slightly more power
  • considerably more efficient
  • barely lighter
Compare directly with CUPRA Leon
from £28,300
LBX

Lexus LBX

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 136 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.5 - 4.8 L/100km
details

Quick data check: Lexus LBX

  • substantially more power
  • marginally more efficient
  • significantly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • barely cheaper
  • moderately lighter
Compare directly with Lexus LBX
from £30,100
Countryman

MINI Countryman

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 122 - 313 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.9 - 6.5 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.8 - 15.9 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 463 - 497 km
details

MINI Countryman as a suitable alternative to BMW 1 Series

In the battle between the BMW 1 Series and the MINI Countryman, drivers are treated to a fascinating contrast of style and functionality. The 1 Series offers a more traditional BMW experience with its sporty handling and premium interior, while the Countryman stands out with its distinctive design and versatile space. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference: the performance-oriented nature of the 1 Series or the playful character of the Countryman.

The MINI Countryman turns the cheeky charm of a classic MINI into a proper all-rounder, blending playful styling with surprisingly usable space for everyday life. It still grins at city lights but will happily tackle muddy lanes, perfect for buyers who want character without sacrificing practicality.

Quick data check: MINI Countryman

  • barely cheaper
  • noticeably more efficient
  • a bit quicker 0–100 km/h
  • barely lighter
  • barely more power
  • somewhat more trunk space
Compare directly with MINI Countryman
from £21,900
Yaris

Toyota Yaris

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 280 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 3.8 - 8.7 L/100km
details

Quick data check: Toyota Yaris

  • very slightly more power
  • slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • visibly more trunk space
  • visibly cheaper
  • moderately more efficient
  • markedly lighter
Compare directly with Toyota Yaris

Direct comparisons

These comparison pages show the BMW 1 Series head-to-head against similar models.

BMW 1 Series
CUPRA Formentor
VS
BMW 1 Series
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
VS
BMW 1 Series
CUPRA Leon
VS
BMW 1 Series
Lexus LBX
VS
BMW 1 Series
MINI Countryman
VS
BMW 1 Series
Toyota Yaris
VS

Further pages

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.