Vehicle Reviews

The 2012 BMW 1 Series compact car comes in a compact coupe and a soft-top convertible body styles. Both versions are available in 128i and 135i trim levels. The 1-Series is positioned below BMW's 3-Series line, both in terms of size and price. The 1-Series represents the core BMW philosophies of pure performance and premium design, combining sporty rear-wheel drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines, and seating for four.

BMW's 1 Series two-door Coupe is a sharp-looking compact car agile with its rear-wheel drive dynamics. The Coupe combines unique design elements with a long hood, short overhangs, long wheelbase, large frameless doors, and a striking roofline. Aggressive rear-end styling and an integrated rear spoiler highlight the short rear section. With new enhanced performance features, the 1 Series delivers sporty driving pleasure for 'true' drivers, BMW fans, and enthusiasts. Convertibles get a fully lined power-folding automatic softtop with heated glass rear window and electric rear defroster; a sunroof and split folding rear seat are standard features on Coupes. Key features include anti-theft AM/FM stereo and CD/MP3 player audio system with 10 speakers; Radio Data System; auto-store and 3-channel FM diversity antenna; 8-way adjustable front seats including 2-way headrests; leatherette upholstery; high-gloss black trimmings; 3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel with mounted audio and hands-free phone controls; automatic climate control; front-door storage compartments; front-seat center armrest; front-seat cup-holders; tilt/telescopic steering-wheel column; power front windows; rain-sensing windshield wipers; cruise control; halogen free-form front fog lights; heated dual power mirrors; heated windshield washer jets; chrome-plated exhaust tips; gray-band windshield; and chrome-line exterior trim. Other key features include climate zone ventilation; Bluetooth wireless technology; onboard navigation system with traffic alerts; headlight washers; iPod / iPhone USB Integrated System; and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. All models get run-flat tires with standard 17-inch wheels on the 128i and 18-inch wheels on the 135i. The 135i adds upgraded brakes and poplar wood interior trimmings. Other options include a voice-activated navigation system, aluminum or burled walnut interior trimmings, leather upholstery, and heated front seats. Coupes have optional Premium and Sport packages.

The 128i Coupes and Convertibles derive power from a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline 6-cylinder engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, featuring valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminum/magnesium construction. The powerful 135i Coupes and Convertibles are equipped with BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft of torque. Performance and fuel economy is achieved through direct Piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers, and air-to-air intercooling. EPA mileage estimates of the 128i Convertible with the 6-speed manual is 18/28 mpg (city/highway) and with the automatic transmission is 18/27 mpg (city/highway).

Safety features include ABS; traction control; antiskid system; brake assist; daytime running lights; driver and passenger front-impact airbags; seat-mounted driver and passenger side-impact airbags; curtain 1st and 2nd row overhead airbag; front passenger airbag occupancy sensor; head restraints; front seatbelt pre-tensioners; locking fuel flap included with power door locks; side-impact bars; remote activated perimeter/approach lights; tailgate/rear door lock included with power doors; and ignition disable.