BMW 1 Series rental in Melbourne

A premium small hatch

The 1 Series is BMW's smallest hatch. Fleet cars are listed as BMW 118, which covers the 118i petrol and, in some years, the 118d diesel; the listing shows the fuel type. It is a premium-badged car, but in everyday terms it is still a small hatch: four adults fit, five is a squeeze, and luggage space suits a couple's weekend away rather than a family holiday.

Running costs

The Green Vehicle Guide lists the 118i with the 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo and eight-speed automatic, listed 2015–2020, at 5.2 L/100km combined on 95 RON premium unleaded. The next-generation 118i released in 2019, with a seven-speed automatic, is listed at 5.9 L/100km and on 98 RON. The 118d diesel automatic, listed 2015–2020, is rated at 4.2 L/100km. For the petrol cars the fuel grade matters: premium unleaded costs more per litre than regular, so factor that in when comparing the weekly cost with a mainstream small car. Use the grade shown inside the fuel flap.

Practical points

• Seats: five belts, with a rear seat best for two adults.
• Controls: if you have not driven a BMW before, set up your phone connection and navigation before you leave the pickup point.
• Rideshare: eligibility depends on the specific car's age and rating under Uber's current Melbourne requirements, and Uber Comfort or Black also require the model to be on Uber's eligible list.

Renting one

Each 1 Series listing shows the year, weekly rent and bond. We accept P-plates for the rental itself (Uber asks its drivers for a full licence held 6 months), and pickup is from Dandenong South.