Feature: BMW 116d (F20)

1 day ago

2 min read

The back-to-basics formula of the F20 116d reminds us exactly what BMW stands for.

I’m increasingly feeling alienated when I speak to someone who says a car like the current BMW 520i is good to drive. It just isn’t. The steering is too light, the damping is off, and although there is perhaps a good chassis deep within, the whole experience is just too disjoint to make it shine.

The light M Performance touches uplifts the F20's look.

Sometimes a palette cleanser is needed, and it isn’t something wildly expensive or unattainable. The F20 116d is a case in point.

The Brembo brakes inspire more confidence than stock ones.

After publishing my reels on the 116d, at least 3 other people shared their similarly positive views with me about the car.

Damping is exceptionally pliant, even with the enlarged rims.

It has all of the hallmarks of a great BMW. Quite light, a good amount of power, sensible damping and a classic FR layout to give balance and rear-driven magic. You don’t even need a manual gearbox or a straight-six engine.

There’s just so much fun to be had with the 116d. The key thing is you can rotate the back at will, thanks to the torque from the turbodiesel engine. The steering and chassis are communicative enough to tell you what’s happening when the car goes sideways.

There isn't much else to buy for less money that's this much fun.

And when you want to drive it home, it’s just a honey. The suspension is unabashedly softly sprung and gives the car a long-legged gait. But not too soft, so the car does lean satisfyingly when pushed.

The whole package just works. Don’t diss it just because it’s a basic entry-level diesel hatchback. Miss out on this gem at your peril!

At around 12-13k depreciation as a PARF car, and with a four digit PARF rebate, there’s lots of fun to be had per dollar, even with a renewed COE.

Photos by Dom