If you really need a hatchback family car and want a bm, then the 1 is it really. Shame the car is Butt ugly and overpriced. About the only thing I like about a 1 series is the fact it took attention away from the compact (which personally I like) and gave people something new to complain about. Golfs are for old men or boy racers, there is no area between where others fit. At least the audi has nicer lines. Is it the scirocco that just got released with the really angry looking front end? Now that IS a nice looking car. When all is said and done though, the one series will always be greeted with an 'oh, its a one' look by the majority of 3 series bm owners. But hey, its all about preference. Might start a poll on it if I can think of something decent.