BMW has rebooted its successful rear-drive rival to the Golf while sticking to the formula from the successful first-generation model.

Bigger in every direction, with a stronger body but a 60kg weight drop, the F20 1 Series is an attempt to address the issues afflicting the E87 original, like the lack of rear-seat space, difficult entry and egress and choppy ride quality.

But far from feeling like a poverty pack special (except if you’re in the back seat), today’s 116i rises above its lowly ranking and base specification to provide a terrifically well-rounded driving and ownership experience. And especially so as a manual.

This is a proper little BMW.