In the section, you can find reviews from BMW 116 owners. If you have experience with BMW 116 models, share it with others by submitting your review through the comment form. It will be published right after moderation.
About the Model
BMW is renowned for producing premium cars. However, the company also offers more affordable vehicles within its lineup, such as the 1 Series. These models are priced lower than other BMW counterparts but boast the same quality of assembly and reliability. The majority of reviews about BMW 116 are exceptionally positive.
BMW 116i – A Reliable Car
I had just enough money, but I wanted to own a «Bimmer.» In the end, I opted for the first-series hatchback. I bought the car in 2009 for 500,000 rubles. The mileage is quite reasonable at 100,000 km. I drive carefully, so I did not expect any major issues from the car. And there were none.
After a week of use, I had formed certain impressions. The car enters turns reliably, without leaning. However, the steering wheel is a bit stiff. This becomes noticeable when compared to a VW Polo. The car performed well in terms of speed, but there were some downsides. Sometimes the car hesitates and does not accelerate as swiftly as desired. I mainly blame the automatic transmission.
After reaching 30,000 km, problems started to arise. There were two issues:
- oil consumption;
- coolant loss.
I don't know where the coolant went, I just refilled it and that was it. The oil consumption disappeared after replacing the oil seals.
Overall, the feedback on BMW 116i is positive. The main downside is the lack of engine roar. The car is equipped with N46B20BZ. The quiet sound is a structural feature of this engine model. This situation cannot be rectified.
Review of BMW 116, Unrivaled Car
Before buying a BMW, I drove a KIA CEED. Overall, I have nothing bad to say about the «Korean,» but the differences with the BMW are striking. The models are fundamentally different. I do not plan on switching to anything else.
Firstly, about ergonomics. The Bavarians have thought out every detail. The buttons for option activation are placed very conveniently. Initially, I couldn't get used to the steering wheel. Compared to KIA, it seemed a bit small to me. However, I got used to it and had no issues afterwards.
The seats are excellent. They are relaxing, prevent backaches, and provide great support during turns. The side support is not quite sporty, but it's sufficient for me.
There are some minor issues with the interior, especially concerning the rear bench. I am 169 cm tall, so passengers sitting in the back find it quite comfortable. If I were taller, passengers would be chin-resting on their knees.
The trunk is adequate, but it's better not to choose this car if you like transporting many items frequently or going on nature trips. Space is limited. Another downside is the low ground clearance. The model is suitable only for the city. You can reach the countryside, but forget about hunting or fishing. For such purposes, wagons and SUVs are ideal.
The fuel consumption is high for this class. On the highway at 120 km/h, it consumes just over 7 liters. In the city, I use around 9 liters per hundred kilometers. I refuel with AI-95. I bought the car from a dealer, and they immediately advised using only this type of gasoline.
Overall, I am satisfied with the car. Throughout my ownership, I have not encountered any negative reviews about the BMW 116. The car stands out in traffic and performs well even on our roads. It is nearly impossible to damage the suspension. To do so, a driver would have to collect all the bumps along the route.
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BMW 116 – No Headaches
I purchased the car in 2008 from an official dealer and serviced it there as well. Occasionally, minor issues arose, but overall, I am quite satisfied with the model. The car retains its operational characteristics perfectly. In 2020, the handling is as good as it was 12 years ago.
I initially faced drainage issues. However, they were quickly resolved. The air conditioner pipe leaked the first time. After replacement, this issue no longer bothered me. Essentially, I drove 150,000 km without worries. I changed consumables, but that's unavoidable.
Then, two problems arose almost simultaneously:
- The chain stretched.
- The steering rack broke.
However, the issues were quickly resolved. I opted for an original rack. A used one was also offered, but I chose not to compromise on safety. The front shocks lasted another 20,000 km.
Overall, I am quite satisfied with the car. The car is getting older, but it outperforms many new foreign cars. In terms of reliability, it is quite comparable to Toyotas. Repairs can be costly, but not excessively so. The base series is not as expensive to maintain as it may seem.
The Best Offer in its Class, My Positive Review of BMW 116
There are few reviews about BMW 116, so I decided to write my own. Before this, I drove Yaris, Lexus, and Mazda. In my opinion, this is the best car in its class. I bought it used, but from Germany. At that time, the mileage was 90,000 km. The condition was almost perfect.
First and foremost, the engine's quick response to the accelerator pedal deserves mention. The car reacts instantly. Compared to Japanese cars, it's like night and day. The suspension is a bit stiff, I would prefer it to be softer. On normal roads, it's fine, but the conditions here require a more detailed explanation.
The overall impression is positive. I won't write about breakdowns and other «joys» as I've only had the BMW for 2 months. Nothing has broken down yet. The driving pleasure is enticing, as every element has been meticulously thought out.
