The fast, stylish new compact BMW 1-Series models are the automaker's new entry cars and bring more affordable ones to BMW's U.S. line.
BMW's last stab at an entry model here was the mid-1990s 318ti hatchback coupe. It was decent, but most Americans didn't want a hatchback and the four-cylinder 318ti was overpriced, underpowered, sparsely equipped and rather costly. It lasted only a few years. That's why BMW says the new 1-Series is inspired by its well-loved and highly successful 1968-76 2002 entry model.
The solidly built 1-Series is much better looking than the boxy, iconic 2002 and has been sold for several years in Europe as a hatchback, where that utilitarian body style is popular. The 1-Series sold in America comes as a coupe with a conventional trunk and as a convertible. Its shapely body has a long hood and short rear-end, with wheels pulled to the far corners of the body for the best ride and handling.
Doors are long and heavy for a compact auto. There's decent room up front in the upscale, functional interior, but the rear seat area is hard to enter or leave and mostly suitable for children. A 6-footer can fit tightly behind the front passenger in the upright seat but wouldn't want to spend much time there. However, typical 1-Series buyers are expected to be young without kids or small children and only occasional adult rear-seat passengers. Otherwise, they'd likely get a larger 3-Series model if they wanted a BMW.
The compact rear-drive 1-Series slots below the enlarged 3-Series. The 1-Series fits in with the latest American trend toward smaller vehicles that are more fuel-stingy and user-friendly. Just look at the move away from mid-size SUVs to car-based crossover vehicles and to small cars in general.
The 1-Series contains the 128i and 135i coupe and convertible. Both have BMW's smooth inline (not V-shaped) six-cylinder engines.
The 128i has 230 horsepower and strong acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.1-6.7 seconds), and the 135i generates 300 horsepower and appreciably faster acceleration (0-60 mph in 5.1-5.2 seconds). Both work with either a six-speed manual gearbox or $1,275 six-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift feature, which was in my test car.
The 1-Series isn't especially light for its size and thus the 128i provides only an estimated 18-19 mpg in the city, and the 135i city figures are 17-18. However, the 128i provides an estimated 27-28 mpg on highways, where the 135i provides 25-26. Premium gas is required, and fuel economy is nearly the same with either transmission.
The 128i coupe costs $28,600, while the 128i convertible is $33,100. The 135i coupe lists at $34,900, while the convertible version is $39,100. In contrast, a 3-Series coupe starts at $35,300 and a 3-Series convertible begins at $43,200.
The 1-Series is rather pricey for its class, but BMW provides long service intervals, free maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles and solid resale values.
I tested a 128i convertible, but lots of options bumped its price to $47,395 -- quite a jump from $33,100. An optioned 135i could top $50,000.
But there's no reason to go whole hog with extras. Even the 128i coupe has a lot of equipment because BMW doesn't want 1-Series cars to be thought of as "bare-bones" entry models.
Standard 1-Series items include air conditioning with automatic climate control, power sunroof (coupe), tilt/telescope leather-wrapped wheel with radio controls, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, rain-sensing variable intermittent wipers, split-folding rear seat (coupe), trunk pass-through (convertible) and power mirrors, windows and door locks with remote keyless entry.
The convertible has a fast-acting soft top that allows a snug, quiet interior and can be operated at speeds up to 25 mph.
Safety features include front side air bags, curtain side air bags (coupe), traction control, anti-lock disc brakes and an anti-skid system.
Various option packages (Premium, Sport, Cold Weather) go from $600 to $3,600. Stand-alone extras include a $2,100 navigation system, $1,450 leather upholstery, $995 power front seats, $500 heated front seats, $350 rear-obstacle detection system and $1,400 active steering, which helps low-speed maneuvering.
My test car's firm-feel power steering was quick and accurate, and handling was sharp. The supple ride was firm but never beat me up, even on rough roads, although the car had the stiffer optional sports suspension. The brake pedal had a nice feel, and stopping power was impressive.
Front seats are very supportive and BMW's typical no-nonsense gauges can be read quickly. The start-stop engine button is convenient, but the turn signal has odd actuation I never quite got used to. Windshield posts and the convertible top obstruct vision and larger side mirrors are needed. A small front armrest partly blocks the single console cupholder, although the front passenger has a free-standing one. The covered front console storage bin is small, as are the glove compartment and door pockets.
The trunk is large for a convertible and its lid glides open via hydraulic struts and swings well up and out of the way.
The hood also raises smoothly on struts to reveal fluid filler areas that, for instance, let you add engine oil without getting clothes dirty.
The 1-Series coupe and convertible are essentially in a class by themselves. But then, BMW long has been known for fast, relatively affordable, fun-to-drive small cars.
Jedlicka's take: BMW 1-Series
Prices: $28,600-$39,100
Likes: Fast, especially with turbo engine. Stylish. Well-equipped. Nice convertible top.
Dislikes: Pricey for its class. Tight back seat. Can get costly with options. Long, heavy doors. |
