I drove a 218i recently in Germany with the 1.5 3 cylinder I think. Overall it wasn't a bad car but really didn't like the engine as it seemed far too unrefined for a BMW. Still, it did 210kph on the Autobahn but it was fairly terrifying at that! The 225xe looks appealing though if you need a family car.
Should have added - have a look at approved used cars in the UK, a lot of late 16, early 17 stock around at considerable savings.