Hot hatch ... and a road to Hell

Latest generation 1 Series now comes with three doors and the potent M135i is the cherry on top

BMW has extended its compact 1 Series range with the introduction of a new three-door variant.

This latest model adds to the sporting characteristics of the models with a 116i (100kW, 220Nm); 125i (160kW, 310Nm); and M135i (235kW, 450Nm) initially available. A 118i will be available from November.

As with many BMW vehicles, owners will be able to customise their vehicles with either the Sport Line, Urban Line or M Sport Package.

The new 1 Series has a unique appearance with its a stretched side line, wide doors with frameless windows and distinctive accentuation of the rear-wheel arches.

All engine variants come with optimised six-speed manual transmissions as standard but all models can be delivered with a unique eight-speed automatic transmission as an option. Furthermore, the Auto Start/Stop function is available for both manual and automatic transmissions.

The BMW EfficientDynamics technology package also includes the ECO PRO mode, which can be activated via the Driving Experience Control button that is standard on all models.

Like the five-door version, the new three-door BMW 1 Series offers increased agility and driving comfort compared to the previous model.

The interior is also more spacious. For example, the new three-door BMW 1 Series can be configured with a choice of seating for two or three passengers in the rear compartment.

The new three-door is a dynamic and sporty individualist in the premium compact segment.

The long bonnet, the aft-set passenger compartment, the long wheelbase and short overhangs are typical design elements that make this vehicle a genuine BMW when viewed from any angle.

All in all,the new BMW 1 Series has its own young, sporty design language, giving it a personality of its very own.

Pricing: 116i (from R265500); 125i (starting from R336000); M135i (R445500). - Quickpic

The iconic Mitsubishi Pajero off-roader has just celebrated the brand's 30th anniversary with a trip "to Hell and back".

The Pajero Legend, now equipped with every possible gadget and gizmo, made the journey to The Hell, near the Swartberg Pass in the Western Cape - a heavenly drive!

What is it?

The Pajero Legend is a limited-edition vehicle based on the 3.2Di-D GLX specification.

The impressive 4x4 system is specifically for extreme off-road performance.

The Super Select 4WD system has low range, centre differential lock and rear differential lock - all electronically operated.

This is combined with the high-torque 3.2-litre diesel engine which produces 140kW at 3800rpm and 441Nm at 2000rpm.

How does it look?

Pajero, unlike many other models, has been slow to change its appearance and styling and it looks old.

What's it like to drive?

In spite of its ageing looks, the Pajero is up there with the best in off-road conditions.

We tackled (and completed without any mishaps) an off-road course outside De Rust which is rated five (the maximum) by bush-busters on the first day and then the dangerous, The Hell, the next day without much difficulty, which says a lot for the vehicle.

Any special features?

Plenty! Over R120000 of extras have been packed into this limited-edition off-roader.

They include a nudge bar, LED spot lamps, tow bar, rock sliders and under-body protection plates.

There is also an air snorkel, A/T tyres plus a tyre monitor and a Garmin GPS.

The Legend comes with a roof rack fitted with a table, gas bottle and two jerry cans for diesel or water, air compressor, dual battery system and a Luna 50-litre freezer.

Should you buy one?

Yes, but at the price of R619900 it's an expensive vehicle. That said, though, quality and reliability don't come cheap!