2009 BMW 1 Series

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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 6-speed manual is standard on each car, while a 6-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. Stand-alone options such as 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.

The 1-Series convertible bowed late in 2008, and continues on in 2009. Available in both 128i and 135i trims, it features a fully automatic soft top with heated rear glass and integrated defroster.
After the 1-series was introduced in 2008, BMW's entry-level model is mostly unchanged for 2009. It is still available in three 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. BMW's active steering is no longer available on the 128i and the optional navigation system now utilizes the automaker's iDrive control system.
Entry-level pricing; sleek BMW family design; terrific straight-six engines; extensive standard features.
The 3-Series has been BMW's entry-level car since 1975. When the company's Mini Cooper became such a big hit in the hatchback market, the 1-Series was designed to slot in nicely just above it. 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.