BMW's most affordable model arrives in Argentina: the 118 BlackEdition

BMW has introduced a new entry-level model in Argentina, the 118 BlackEdition, a variant of the Series 1 compact hatchback. Priced at US$45,900, it becomes the most accessible BMW currently on the market in the country. This positions it approximately US$10,000 cheaper than the 118 Sportline, which sells for US$55,900, and even further below the M135 xDrive sports model.

The more accessible price point for the BlackEdition is attributed to a more limited equipment configuration compared to its higher-tier siblings. However, it's noted that this is not the absolute lowest-priced BMW ever sold in Argentina; a limited run of turbodiesel X1 models was previously offered for US$44,900 but sold out quickly.

Under the hood, the 118 BlackEdition is powered by BMW's TwinPower Turbo 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine. This unit produces 156 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. Official specifications indicate a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 8.5 seconds, a top speed of 226 km/h, and a combined fuel consumption of 5.3 to 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers (WLTP).

Key features of the BlackEdition include 18-inch alloy wheels, an electric panoramic sunroof, adaptive LED headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, and proximity keyless entry. The interior boasts the BMW Live Cockpit Plus system, featuring a 10.25-inch central touchscreen and a 10.7-inch digital instrument cluster running BMW Operating System 9. Safety features encompass lane departure warning with active correction, front collision warning, automatic emergency braking for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, speed limit recognition, and an evasion assistant.