BMW shook up the family hatchback market in 2004 with the release of the 1 Series, replacing the ageing 3 Series Compact. This new rear-wheel drive hatchback range consisted of the sporty 3-door E81, sleek E82 coupe, practical 5-door E87 and elegant E88 convertible models, collectively known as the E8x generation.

The 118d sat right in the middle of the hatchback range, above the 116d and below the 120d. Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged diesel M47 engine producing 121hp, the 118d provided a perfect blend of fuel efficiency, practicality and driving enjoyment. Buyers loved the responsive steering and near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution thanks to the rear-wheel drive layout - a rarity in the hatchback segment.

In 2007, the 118d received a boost in power from the upgraded N47 diesel motor, now churning out 141hp while maintaining the same excellent fuel economy, allowing it to reach 0-62mph in 9.4 seconds.

The E87 118d remained in production until 2013 when the 1 Series was redesigned with the immensely popular 1 Series F20 5-door and F21 3-door.

During its 9-year lifespan, the zippy E87 118d hatchback built an enthusiastic following and helped establish the 1 Series as BMW's affordable, family-friendly offering without sacrificing the brand's core values of driving performance and excitement.

Even today, well-loved E87 118ds are sought after by savvy motorists looking for a practical hatchback with unexpectedly sprightly performance.

The 118d F20/F21

The 2011 launch of the second-generation 1 Series ushered in a new era for the model. Now designated the F20 (5-door hatch) and F21 (3-door hatch), this latest iteration brought sleek, modern styling paired with the latest technology and features.

Gone were the compact, angular lines of the first generation 1 Series, and in their place came a more swept-back profile with rounded edges, a new BMW 118d front bumper, and optional LED accented headlights. The interior was also modernised, with a driver-focused cockpit and BMW's iDrive interface now becoming standard.

The humble 118d retained the same fuel-sipping diesel engine in the F20/F21 1 Series lineup, with the same 2.0L N47 turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine from the M47, now producing 141hp and 236 lb-ft of torque.

In 2015, BMW gave the 118d a boost with the new B47 powerplant. Displacement stayed at 2.0L, but upgrades like a new aluminium block, reduced internal friction, and improved turbocharging pushed the power output to 148hp.

A Desirable Future Classic

The 118d started life out as the middle child in the range, but desirable trim levels like M sport and special editions have made specific models highly sought after.

When new, the 118d provided an accessible entry point into BMW ownership. But as an engaging driver's hatchback with everyday practicality, used models are becoming a future collectable. But be warned – good models are hard to come by!

Low mileage examples in top trims like M Sport hold their value and don't come around often. Finding a 118d that's well looked after is difficult because of the M47's age and diesel models racking up high mileage.

If you can grab one, the 118d’s combination of usable performance and build quality in an accessible package make it a standout model, both today and for years to come.