Awards 2010 - Lower Medium: BMW 1-series

Despite BMW’s domination of the BusinessCar Awards in recent years this is the first time the 1-series has scooped the lower medium sector win.

The range of 1-series available is nothing short of stunning. There’s a version to suit almost all business drivers in this sector, from a fleet-friendly 118g/km CO2, 64mpg 116d sitting in the 13% tax band, to a 123d hatch capable of 0-62mph in seven seconds and still under 150g/km.

The 116d not only gives BMW an ultra-efficient 1-series but also an aggressive entry price point of just £17,605 – very impressive.

Beyond the three- and five-door hatches, there’s also a coupé and convertible version of the smallest car to wear the BMW badge.

This comprehensive and efficient range saw the car’s fleet sales remain stable in 2009, despite a market that fell 20%.