BMW 1 Series Price in Kenya - 116i, 118i & 120i Cars for Sale
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The BMW 1 Series
Find BMW 1 Series hatchbacks for sale in Kenya. Compare 2026 prices for 116i, 118i & 120i M Sport models (Kshs 1,590,000 to 6.5M), buy from verified sellers - your trusted marketplace.
BMW 1 Series Price in Kenya: Buyer’s Guide & Verified Listings
Buy BMW 1 Series in Kenya – Complete Market & Buying Guide
The BMW 1 Series is one of the most popular premium hatchbacks in Kenya, known for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and premium build quality. In the Kenyan market, BMW 1 Series prices range from Kshs 1.5 million for older 116i models to over Kshs 6.5 million for newer 120i M Sport variants. This complete 2026 buyer’s guide gives you current prices, real-world running costs in Nairobi, key differences between the 116i, 118i, and 120i models, common problems to check, and how to buy a verified BMW 1 Series with confidence through a trusted Kenyan marketplace.
BMW 1 Series Price in Kenya
What is the price of a BMW 1 Series in Kenya? Prices depend on model year, engine variant, trim level, mileage, and overall condition.
| Model & Variant | Typical Year | Price Range (Kshs) | Key Features & Best For |
| BMW 116i (Entry Level) | 2015–2018 | 1,500,000 – 2,400,000 | Most affordable entry into BMW ownership. Best for budget-focused buyers who prioritize inspection and full service history. |
| BMW 118i (Most Popular) | 2019–2021 | 2,200,000 – 4,000,000 | Best overall value. Turbocharged performance, excellent fuel economy, and modern infotainment. Ideal for most Kenyan drivers. |
| BMW 120i M Sport | 2022–2024 | 4,000,000 – 6,500,000+ | Peak performance and luxury. M Sport styling, latest technology, and premium features. |
Quick Market Insight: The BMW 118i (2019–2021) is the most popular choice in Kenya, offering the best balance of modern features, proven reliability, and manageable long-term ownership costs.
[👉 Search Verified BMW 1 Series Listings on Magari Deals]
BMW 116i vs 118i vs 120i: Which BMW 1 Series Should You Buy?
- BMW 116i – For Budget-Conscious Buyers This is the most affordable route into BMW ownership. These cars are typically older with higher mileage and lower power output. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a BMW specialist is essential.
- BMW 118i – Best Overall Choice (Recommended) The sweet spot in the range. It delivers strong turbocharged performance, good fuel efficiency (approximately 16–18 km/l on highway drives), and modern tech such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This model offers the best balance of price, performance, and ownership experience in Kenya.
- BMW 120i M Sport – Performance & Luxury Designed for buyers seeking the most powerful and luxurious option. It features aggressive M Sport styling, premium interior finishes, and advanced driver-assistance features. Expect higher insurance and maintenance costs.
Not sure which BMW 1 Series fits your lifestyle and budget? Speak to a trusted BMW specialist before buying.
BMW 1 Series Running Costs in Kenya (2026)
Owning a premium hatchback means understanding the real costs beyond the purchase price.
| Cost Factor | 118i (2019–2021) | Audi A3 1.4 TFSI | Mercedes-Benz A200 |
| Fuel Cost ((Per km – Nairobi) | Kshs 12 – 14 | Kshs 13 – 15 | Kshs 14 – 16 |
| Annual Service | Kshs 70,000- 100,000 | Kshs 80,000 - 120,000 | Kshs 90,000-130,000 |
| Comprehensive Insurance | Kshs 80,000-120,000/year | Similar | Similar |
| Common Major Repair | Timing Chain (Kshs 250K) | DSG Gearbox (Kshs 300K+) | Electrical faults (varies) |
Verdict: When properly maintained, the BMW 1 Series—especially the 118i with the B38/B48 engine—often has lower and more predictable running costs than comparable Audi or Mercedes-Benz models in Kenya.
5 Critical Checks Before Buying a Used BMW 1 Series
- Engine & Timing Chain: On a cold start, listen for rattling or tapping noises. Timing chain repairs on older N13 engines (pre-2017) can exceed KSh 250,000.
- Turbocharger Health: During a test drive, watch for blue or grey smoke during acceleration, which may indicate worn turbo seals.
- Electronics & iDrive System: Test the infotainment screen, parking sensors, cameras, climate control, and all warning lights. Electrical faults are expensive to diagnose and repair.
- Service History: A complete, verifiable BMW service record is one of the strongest indicators of a well-maintained car. Walk away from vehicles with missing records.
- Accident or Flood Damage: Inspect door sills, spare wheel well, carpets, and body panel gaps for rust, moisture, or signs of previous repairs.
Where to Buy a BMW 1 Series in Kenya Safely
Buying a premium imported car requires extra caution.
- Authorized BMW Dealers (Nairobi): Offer certified used vehicles with warranty, but prices are higher and used stock is limited.
- Specialist Importers: The main source for UK and Japanese imports. Experience and verification standards vary.
- Verified Online Marketplaces (Recommended): Platforms like Magari Deals reduce risk by vetting sellers, providing vehicle history reports (like auction sheets), and ensuring transparent pricing—all in one secure place.
This guide is based on current 2026 Kenyan market listings, ownership feedback, and maintenance data from independent BMW specialists in Nairobi and Mombasa.
Frequently Asked Questions (BMW 1 Series – Kenya)
- Which BMW 1 Series is the most reliable in Kenya? The 2019–2021 BMW 118i with the B38/B48 engine is widely regarded as the most reliable option. Be cautious with 2014–2016 models using the older N13 engine unless the timing chain has been replaced.
- Is the BMW 1 Series fuel-efficient for Nairobi traffic? Yes. The BMW 118i typically achieves 12–14 km/l in city driving and 16–18 km/l on the highway, depending on driving style and traffic conditions.
- Are BMW 1 Series spare parts available and expensive in Kenya? Spare parts are readily available from main dealers and independent suppliers, especially in Nairobi’s Industrial Area. Independent specialists often offer better value servicing.
- Is the BMW 1 Series worth buying in Kenya? Yes. For buyers seeking a premium hatchback, the BMW 1 Series—particularly the 118i—offers strong performance, good efficiency, and competitive ownership costs compared to the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class.
- Should I import a BMW 1 Series yourself? For most buyers, using a verified importer or buying locally inspected stock is safer due to shipping logistics, taxes, and the difficulty of verifying overseas vehicle history.
Your Next Step
You now have the knowledge to make a smart decision. Your next step is simple: compare verified BMW 1 Series listings where every seller is pre-vetted for your safety.
📞 Need expert advice on choosing a BMW 1 Series? Call 0705 999 777
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