BMW 1 Series 118i Package Hatchback AT (2015) vs Nissan Leaf EV (2023)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of BMW 1 Series 118i Package Hatchback AT (2015) vs Nissan Leaf EV (2023) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | BMW 1 Series 118i Package Hatchback AT (2015) BMW ₱2,320,000 | Nissan Leaf EV (2023) Nissan ₱1,998,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2015 | 2023 |
| Warranty | Unlimited/2-years | 3-years/100,000km |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-3 | Electric Motor |
| Displacement | 1499cc | — |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 12-valve | — |
| Aspiration | Turbo Intercooler | Hybrid / Electric |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Electric |
| Max Power | 136 PS @ 4400 rpm | 150 PS |
| Max Torque | 220 Nm @ 1350-4300 rpm | 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 8-Speed A/T | Single Speed |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Segment | C | Hatchback |
| Construction | Unibody | Unibody |
| Doors | 5 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 | 2+3 |
| Length (mm) | 4324 | 4490 |
| Width (mm) | 1765 | 1788 |
| Height (mm) | 1421 | 1540 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2690 | 2700 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1365 | 1591 |
| Exterior Colors | — | White Pearl, Night Blue Metallic, Radiant Red, Gun Metallic |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | MacPherson | MacPherson Strut w/ Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link | Torsion Beam |
| Front Wheels | 16x7.0" Alloys | 16 |
| Rear Wheels | 16x7.0" Alloys | 16 |
| Front Tires | 205/55/R16 RFT | 205/55/R16 |
| Rear Tires | 205/55/R16 RFT | 205/55/R16 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | Hydraulic | EPS |
| Steering Column | tilt | Tilt |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | No | No |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | No |
| Stability Control | Yes | No |
| Traction Control | Yes | No |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | Yes |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | No | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | No |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | No | No |
| Knee Airbag | No | No |
| Passenger Airbag | No | No |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | No |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | — | Yes |
| Engine Immobilizer | — | Yes |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Automatic Climate Control | Automatic Climate Control |
| Rear A/C Vents | No | No |
| Seat Material | Fabric | Fabric |
| Parking Brake | Manual | EPB |
| Key Type | Comfort Access Key | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | No | No |
| Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | No | No |
| Reverse Camera | No | No |
| Auto Headlights | No | No |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | No | No |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | No |
| Eco Mode | No | No |
| Antenna | yes | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Touchscreen | No | Yes |
| Navigation | No | No |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | No | Yes |
| AUX Input | Yes | No |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | Yes | No |
| DVD Player | No | No |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | No |
| iPod Support | Yes | No |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Speakers | — | 6 |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | Halogen + Foglamps | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | — | Yes |
BMW 1 Series 118i Package Hatchback AT (2015) vs Nissan Leaf EV (2023): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer weighing cost, performance and everyday practicality, the Nissan Leaf EV (2023) edges out the BMW 1 Series 118i (2015) for most urban commuters, while the BMW remains a niche choice for those who value traditional driving dynamics and a lower‑maintenance gasoline powertrain. The Leaf is priced at ₱1,998,000, about ₱322,000 cheaper than the BMW’s ₱2,320,000, and it offers higher maximum power (150 PS vs 136 PS) and substantially more torque (320 Nm vs 220 Nm), delivering brisk acceleration without the need for gear shifts thanks to its single‑speed electric transmission. Its electric‑only drivetrain also eliminates fuel costs and aligns with the growing network of charging stations in Metro Manila. The BMW, on the other hand, provides a classic inline‑3 turbo engine, rear‑wheel drive and an 8‑speed automatic, appealing to drivers who prefer the feel of a gasoline hatchback and the prestige of a German badge. Both seat five and share a hatchback body, but the Leaf is longer (4490 mm vs 4324 mm) and slightly wider, giving a bit more interior room. Warranty coverage favors the Leaf (3 years/100,000 km) over the BMW’s unlimited/2‑year plan. Choose the Leaf for cost‑effective, eco‑friendly city driving; choose the BMW only if you specifically want a gasoline RWD hatchback and are comfortable with the higher price and fuel expenses.
Frequently asked questions
Which model is cheaper?
The Nissan Leaf EV (2023) costs ₱1,998,000, which is ₱322,000 less than the BMW 1 Series 118i (2015) priced at ₱2,320,000.
Which vehicle has more power and torque?
The Leaf produces 150 PS and 320 Nm of torque, surpassing the BMW’s 136 PS and 220 Nm.
Is the BMW or the Leaf more practical for daily commuting in the Philippines?
The Leaf’s lower price, higher torque, electric drivetrain and longer warranty make it more practical for daily city commuting, while the BMW’s gasoline engine may incur higher fuel costs.
What are the key drivetrain differences?
The BMW uses a rear‑wheel‑drive layout with an 8‑speed automatic, whereas the Leaf is front‑wheel‑drive with a single‑speed electric transmission.