2012 BMW 1-Series Overview

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Overview
The 2012 BMW 1 Series is a sample-sized portion of the brand's larger 3 Series. In other words, the 2012 128i and 2012 135i give you much of what makes the 3 Series great, but slightly less of it. The 1 Series draws inspiration from BMW's iconic 2002, which is largely considered to be the first sport sedan. Like the 2002, the 1 Series is a small two-door with sporty intentions, but also a good measure of practicality.

As a compact and nimble coupe or convertible, the 2012 BMW 1 Series makes for a nice weekend getaway car, with ample room for two people and a few days' worth of luggage. Though the backseat can accommodate two passengers if necessary, it's best suited for use as a secondary storage shelf, as lack of rear legroom makes for a tight fit for two full-grown adults.

The 1 Series is available in two different flavors, ranging from tasty to delectable. Two versions of BMW's 3.0-liter inline-six engine are available, including a naturally aspirated version in the base model 128i, and an engine fitted with a single turbocharger in the sporty 135i with 300 horsepower on tap.... Expand full summary
The Range
Body styles: Coupe, convertible
Engines: 3.0 L I-6, 3.0 L turbocharged I-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual
Models: 128i, 128i convertible, 135i, 135i convertible
What's New
For the 2011 model year, the 1 Series finally received a version tuned by BMW's M Division, but sadly, it was a one-year wonder and is not available for the 2012 model year. On the plus side, the remaining models in the 2012 BMW 1 Series range receive a host of new standard features. The six-speed automatic transmission option for the 128i is now offered at no extra cost over the standard manual transmission. A USB adapter for iPod comes standard on all 1 Series models, while through-load rear seats are added as standard equipment for convertible models. BMW's Alpine White paint color is now available as a no-charge option on all models.
Exterior
The 1 Series is best described as a scaled down 3 Series, both in capabilities and in appearance. As such, BMW's smallest offering has inherited most of the mature yet sporty good looks of its larger stable-mate. The front fascia features BMW's characteristic dual kidney grille and quadruple round headlights, but the nose is slightly more squared off compared to the 3 Series. The short front and rear overhangs contribute to the 1 Series' overall clipped look.
Interior
The cabin of the 1 Series can be upholstered in synthetic leatherette or genuine Boston leather. For 2012, through-load rear seats are standard on convertible models, while 60/40 folding rears seats come standard on the coupes. The M Sport package for the 135i adds sport seats, leather-trimmed steering wheel and paddle shifters, and an interior accent of your choice, ranging from Gray Silver Aluminum, Light Burl Walnut, Gray Poplar Wood, and Alpine White trim.
Performance & Handling
The 1 Series' relatively small size makes it a competent handler when driven within its limits. The 128i, with its naturally aspirated 230-hp 3.0-liter I-6, will feel just right in the hands of a budget-minded enthusiast. But if you like straight-line thrills along with your corner-carving machine, the 300-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter in the 135i is the engine of choice. All models get a either a silky smooth six-speed manual transmission, six-speed automatic, or quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual.
Safety
BMW's Advanced Safety System integrates all of the 1 Series' passive and active safety systems and controls deployment of the car's standard dual-threshold, dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, BMW Head Protection System, and automatic crash response system. An ABS system and BMW's Dynamic Stability Control traction control system are also included as standard on all 1 Series models.
EPA Fuel Economy
128i: 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway (manual, automatic)
128i Convertible: 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway (manual); 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway (automatic)
135i: 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway (manual); 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway (automatic)
135i Convertible: 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway (manual); 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway (automatic)
You'll Like

* Go-kart-like handling
* BMW straight-six performance
* Ease of parking

You Won't Like

* Rear passenger legroom
* Less-than-average cargo capacity

Sum Up
3 Star Rating BMW's value player.
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Select a trim below for packages & options pricing
Engine MPG Base Price Internet Price

128I Coupe

3.0L 230hp

18 city, 28 hwy

$31,050

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128I Convertible

3.0L 230hp

18 city, 28 hwy

$36,700

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135I Coupe

3.0L 300hp

20 city, 28 hwy

$39,150

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135I Convertible

3.0L 300hp

19 city, 28 hwy

$43,900

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