BMW pioneered the "sports sedan" in the mid-1960s when it gave the world the 2002, and the Munich-based carmaker has built a strong reputation on furthering its pursuit of performance and practicality. The 1-Series is its newest offering, and the stylish coupe gives first-time buyers easy access to a great tradition.
The 1-Series comes in two basic flavors--128i and 135i--with variation through options available on both cars. Both are rear-wheel drive, and the 128i (i for fuel injection) is powered by a 230-horsepower 3.0L inline six-cylinder. The 300-horsepower 135i utilizes a twin-turbocharged version of that 3.0L inline six. Both engines feature BMW's advanced electronic throttle control and Double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing. A six-speed manual is standard on each car, while a six-speed Steptronic automatic with steering-wheel paddle shifters is available.
The 128i comes loaded with plenty of standard exterior features, including chromed exhaust tips, 17-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing windshield wipers, dual power heated mirrors, and halogen fog lamps. Inside, eight-way adjustable front seats with two-way headrests are standard, as are power windows and locks, leatherette upholstery, a leather-wrapped tilt/telescopic steering wheel with dynamic cruise and audio controls, and split fold-down rear seats. All 128i cars come with a power moonroof, automatic climate control with individual user recall settings, and a 10-speaker CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input jack.
The twin-turbocharged, 300-horsepower 135i adds 18-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension, xenon adaptive headlights with auto leveling, a rear spoiler, and an aerodynamic kit.
Options and packages available on the 1-Series include a Sport Package, which adds 17-inch performance wheels and tires, sport suspension, shadowline trim, and sport seats. The Premium Package includes auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, power front seats with driver memory, various wood and aluminum interior trims, a universal garage door opener, and a choice of four interior leathers. Standalone options like variable-ratio active steering, heated front seats, navigation with iDrive, premium sound and satellite radio systems, and rear park distance control are available. A Cold Weather Package adds a ski bag and heated front seats. On the 135i, the Sport Package includes an M steering wheel.
Standard safety features on all 1-Series cars include run-flat tires with an air pressure monitor, stability control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with dynamic brake control and brake drying, adaptive brake lights, dual-stage front air bags, front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, programmable daytime running lights, and more.
A 1-Series convertible available in both 128i or 135i configurations will be available later in 2008.
Entry-level Pricing
Sleek BMW Family Design
Terrific Straight Six Engines
Extensive Standard Features.
BMW's 1-Series is an all-new model for 2008, slotting beneath the venerable lineup of 3-Series cars and serving as an affordable entry into BMW ownership. It is also billed as a throwback to the company's legendary 2002 of the 1960s and 1970s. It is available in a few trim levels, including the 128i, which features a 230-horsepower 3.0L inline six, and a 135i, which makes use of a 300-horsepower 3.0L inline six. Both engines are tried and tested and found across the range in the 3- and 5-Series. A 1-Series convertible in either 128i or 135i configuration will be available later in 2008. Pricing starts at $28,600 for the 128i, while the 135i starts at $34,900.
The 2008 BMW 1-Series has been a long time coming, with initial hints and rumors dating back to 2001. Though the 3-Series has traditionally been BMW's entry-level car, its entire segment has gone up-market in recent years. The company's Mini Cooper has been a big hit in the hatchback market, and the 1-Series slots in nicely just above it to fill the void and give younger buyers the chance to own and drive a BMW. It's a stylish little coupe that recalls the iconic 2002, and should offer plenty of competition to cars like the Audi A3 and Volvo C30.
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