The BMW 1 Series delivers premium driving pleasure in a nimble, city-friendly package. Now in its fourth generation, the hatchback debuts a fresh diagonal-bar kidney grille, sculpted three-dimensional press lines, and a spacious, high-tech interior. Whether you choose the efficient 120 or the spirited M135 xDrive, every model embodies BMW’s “Ultimate Driving Machine” philosophy while offering the practicality Kenyan motorists demand.
120 / 120 M Sport
1.5 L three-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol
115 kW (155 hp) and 240 Nm, assisted by a 48 V mild-hybrid system
7-speed double-clutch transmission for seamless shifts
M135 xDrive
2.0 L four-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol
221 kW (296 hp) and 400 Nm, paired with intelligent all-wheel drive
0–100 km/h in about 4.9 seconds
120d / 120d M Sport
2.0 L four-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo diesel
110 kW (148 hp) and 360 Nm, plus a 48 V mild hybrid for punchy low-end torque
Adaptive M suspension on M Sport for sharper handling and improved ride comfort
BMW Curved Display integrating a 10.7-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital cluster
Center console redesign replacing the shift lever with a compact toggle switch
Driving Assist: hands-off traffic-jam assist, active cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-keeping and lane-change warning, and collision mitigation braking
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Over-the-Air software updates, ambient lighting, and configurable drive modes
BMW has reimagined small-car ergonomics with a minimalist but luxurious cockpit. The curved display tilts toward the driver for intuitive control, while touch and voice commands reduce distraction. Soft-touch materials, optional Sensatec or Vernasca leather, and customizable ambient lighting create a premium lounge feel. Rear passengers benefit from generous head- and leg-room for a compact hatch, and the 380 L boot expands easily thanks to split-fold rear seats – perfect for luggage or weekly shopping.
Balanced Dynamics: Near-perfect weight distribution and front-wheel-drive architecture (with xDrive on M135) deliver stable, agile handling on Nairobi’s ring roads or winding countryside B-roads.
Fuel Efficiency: Mild-hybrid petrols average 18–20 km/L in mixed driving, while the 120d diesel achieves 22–24 km/L, keeping running costs low.
Adaptive Chassis: Optional Adaptive M suspension and variable sport steering tailor ride firmness and steering weight to road conditions at the tap of a button.
With 140 mm of ground clearance, the 1 Series easily handles speed bumps and urban potholes. Run-flat tyres allow you to keep moving after a puncture, ideal for longer trips between counties. The M135’s xDrive adds grip on wet or loose surfaces without compromising efficiency.
BMW maintains a strong parts network in Kenya through authorized dealerships and independent German-car specialists. Routine servicing at 10,000 km intervals keeps the turbo engines performing at their peak, and extended-service packages are available through Zen Cars for stress-free ownership. Genuine components, specialist diagnostics, and trained technicians ensure longevity and strong resale value.
| Model Year | Imported Price Range (KES) |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 1,450,000 – 1,700,000 |
| 2015 | 1,750,000 – 1,900,000 |
| 2016 | 2,200,000 – 2,550,000 |
| 2017 | 2,500,000 – 2,900,000 |
| 2018 | 2,930,000 – 3,300,000 |
| 2019 | 3,550,000 – 4,100,000 |
| 2020 | 4,200,000 – 4,400,000 |
Locally used units typically start around KES 1.45 million for well-maintained 2014 models and rise to KES 4.4 million for low-mileage 2020 M Sport or M135 examples. Zen Cars verifies mileage, service records, and accident history before listing any 1 Series for sale.
Compact Footprint, Big Personality: Perfect for tight city streets yet confident on highway cruises.
Advanced Safety: Traffic-jam hands-off assist and comprehensive driver-aid suite set benchmarks in the segment.
Hybrid Efficiency: 48 V systems boost performance and cut fuel use without plug-in hassle.
Premium Tech: Curved display, cloud-based navigation, and over-the-air updates keep the car future-proof.
Strong Resale: BMW badge prestige and limited high-spec stock protect resale values over the years.
Zen Cars offers a turnkey import service for 2018–2020 BMW 1 Series models and newer. We handle:
Sourcing from trusted Japanese and UK auctions with full auction sheets
Pre-purchase inspections, mileage verification, and translation of service books
Shipping, insurance, and Mombasa port clearance
Registration, NTSA logbook processing, and optional ceramic coating or dash-cam installation
Your car arrives in Nairobi fully detailed and ready to drive away.
Our Karen office offers expert advice and guidance on BMW 1 Series models, including the 120 M Sport, 120d, and M135 xDrive. Enjoy:
Side-by-side model comparisons
Tailored financing through partner banks and SACCOs
Trade-in valuations on your current vehicle
Extended warranty and service-plan options
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees – full cost breakdown on request.
Quality Assurance: 150-point inspection and genuine parts guarantee.
Nationwide Delivery: Door-to-door across Kenya.
After-Sales Support: Service reminders, parts sourcing, and resale assistance.
Trusted Reputation: Proven track record with entrepreneurs, families, and auto enthusiasts.
Office: Karen, Nairobi
Phone: +254 724 391 391
Email: info@zencarsimport.com
Website: www.zencarsimport.com
Discover how the BMW 1 Series can elevate your daily drive with performance, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. Talk to Zen Cars for the best deals on imported or locally available models and enjoy concierge-level service from inquiry to key hand-over.
