BMW 1 Series 118i Essential Hatchback AT (2015) vs Hyundai Sonata GLS 2.4 AT Premium (2015)

A full spec-by-spec comparison of BMW 1 Series 118i Essential Hatchback AT (2015) vs Hyundai Sonata GLS 2.4 AT Premium (2015) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.

Specification BMW 1 Series 118i Essential Hatchback AT (2015) BMW ₱1,890,000 Hyundai Sonata GLS 2.4 AT Premium (2015) Hyundai ₱1,898,000
Overview
Model Year 2015 2015
Warranty Unlimited/2-years Unlimited/5-years
Availability Current Current
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Type Inline-3 Inline-4
Displacement 1499cc 2359cc
Valvetrain DOHC 12-valve DOHC 16-valve
Aspiration Turbo Intercooler Naturally Aspirated, CVVT
Fuel Type Gas Gas
Max Power 136 PS @ 4400 rpm 178 PS @ 6000 rpm
Max Torque 220 Nm @ 1350-4300 rpm 229 Nm @ 4000 rpm
Transmission 8-Speed A/T 6-Speed A/T
Drivetrain RWD FWD
Body & Dimensions
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Segment C D
Construction Unibody Unibody
Doors 5 4
Seating Capacity 2+3 2+3
Length (mm) 4324 4820
Width (mm) 1765 1835
Height (mm) 1421 1470
Wheelbase (mm) 2690 2795
Curb Weight (kg) 1365 1480
Chassis, Wheels & Brakes
Front Suspension MacPherson MacPherson
Rear Suspension Multi-Link Multi-Link
Front Wheels 16x7.0" Alloys 18x7.5" Alloys
Rear Wheels 16x7.0" Alloys 18x7.5" Alloys
Front Tires 205/55/R16 RFT 225/45 R18
Rear Tires 205/55/R16 RFT 225/45 R18
Front Brakes Disc Disc
Rear Brakes Disc Disc
Steering Type Hydraulic hydraulic
Steering Column tilt tilt
Tire Pressure Monitoring No No
Differential Lock No No
Safety
Anti-lock Braking (ABS) Yes Yes
Brake Assist No No
Parking Sensors Yes Yes
Stability Control Yes Yes
Traction Control Yes Yes
Vehicle Dynamic Control No No
Forward Collision Mitigation No No
Blind Spot Warning No No
Hill Start Assist No No
Hill Descent Control No No
Auto Stop/Start No No
Driver Airbag No Yes
Knee Airbag No No
Passenger Airbag No Yes
Front Curtain Airbags No Yes
Rear Curtain Airbags No Yes
Rear Side Airbags No Yes
Security Alarm Yes Yes
Door Locking Central Locking Central Locking
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Yes
Engine Immobilizer No
Comfort & Convenience
Air Conditioning Automatic Climate Control Automatic Climate Control
Rear A/C Vents No No
Seat Material Fabric Leather
Parking Brake Manual EPB
Key Type Comfort Access Key Keyless Entry
Push-Button Start No No
Cruise Control No No
Multi-Info Display Yes Yes
Paddle Shifters No No
Reverse Camera No No
Auto Headlights No No
Power Windows Yes Yes
Power Seats No Yes
Remote Trunk Release No No
Eco Mode No No
Antenna yes yes
Infotainment & Audio
Touchscreen No Yes
Navigation No No
Bluetooth No No
Apple CarPlay No No
Android Auto No No
USB No Yes
AUX Input Yes Yes
AM/FM Radio Yes Yes
CD Player Yes Yes
DVD Player No Yes
MP3 Playback Yes Yes
iPod Support Yes No
SD Card Slot No No
Lighting
Headlights Halogen + Foglamps HID
Fog Lights Yes Yes
Daytime Running Lights No
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BMW 1 Series 118i Essential Hatchback AT (2015) vs Hyundai Sonata GLS 2.4 AT Premium (2015): which should you buy?

For a Filipino buyer, the choice between the BMW 1 Series 118i Essential and the Hyundai Sonata GLS 2.4 AT Premium hinges on priorities. The BMW is a premium compact hatchback with a 1.5L turbo inline-3 (136 PS, 220 Nm) and 8-speed A/T, offering RWD driving dynamics and a 2-year unlimited warranty. Its price is ₱1,890,000, slightly lower than the Sonata. However, it has less power and a smaller interior (C-segment, 4324mm length). The Hyundai Sonata is a larger D-segment sedan (4820mm) with a 2.4L naturally aspirated inline-4 (178 PS, 229 Nm) and 6-speed A/T, providing more space and a longer 5-year unlimited warranty. It costs ₱1,898,000. For daily commuting and family use, the Sonata offers better practicality, more power, and a longer warranty. The BMW appeals to driving enthusiasts who prioritize brand prestige, RWD handling, and a compact footprint. If you need space and reliability, choose the Sonata; if you want a sporty premium hatchback, go for the BMW.

Frequently asked questions

Which is cheaper, the BMW 1 Series or the Hyundai Sonata?

The BMW 1 Series 118i Essential is priced at ₱1,890,000, while the Hyundai Sonata GLS 2.4 AT Premium is ₱1,898,000. The BMW is ₱8,000 cheaper.

Which car has more power?

The Hyundai Sonata produces 178 PS and 229 Nm of torque, compared to the BMW's 136 PS and 220 Nm. The Sonata is more powerful.

Which is better for daily commuting?

The Hyundai Sonata is better for daily commuting due to its larger interior (D-segment sedan), more powerful engine, and longer 5-year warranty. The BMW is more compact and may be easier to park but offers less space.

Which car has a longer warranty?

The Hyundai Sonata comes with a 5-year unlimited warranty, while the BMW 1 Series has a 2-year unlimited warranty. The Sonata offers significantly longer coverage.