Don’t make the mistake of thinking that BMW‘s new 116d is all about pushing the green agenda – this car is about giving the German firm a lower price entry-point for its diesel models.
The 116d slots in just below the 118d. Both use the same 2.0-litre engine, although the 116d’s is only 116PS, 27PS below the 118d. That reduction equates to just a 1g/km fall in CO2, bringing the 116d in at 118g/km, and it’s also 1.4mpg better on the fuel economy at 64.2mpg. However, the real reason for the 116d’s introduction is to give BMW a car that will compete on price with the 119g/km Audi A3e.
The 116d stacks up well. It’s slightly more expensive than the Audi but has 11PS more power, is 1.4mpg better off, and offers a better drive. It does, though, lose points for its harder ride, and the fact the A3 probably looks better. However, the BMW is available in a range of trim levels, compared to the Audi’s single, eco trim.
The 116d doesn’t feel significantly slower than its more powerful sibling, and is quite well kitted, for a BMW, in the new Sport specification we sampled it in. A cost per mile figure of 38.4p is pretty impressive given the access to a premium badge.
The latest 1-series is a decent addition, but it’s on cost per mile grounds, not its green credentials.
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