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- Strong performance
- Outstanding driving dynamics
- Turbocharged six-cylinder in the 135i
- High build quality
- Unappealing styling
- Options quickly raise price
- Cramped rear seat
Critics say the BMW 1 Series works well on paper as an entry-level BMW and an alternative to the pricier 3 Series. But, reviews say the 1 Series is more like a 3 Series wrapped in a smaller, less attractive package. It not much less expensive; it doesn't get better fuel economy and has a cramped back seat. However, it brings the strong performance and dynamics that are expected of a BMW, reviewers all agree.
Although the 1 Series is the lowest-priced BMW on the U.S. market and the base price is not unreasonable, but options are expensive. There are also several worthy competitors that should be considered, reviewers say, including coupes and convertibles from Audi, Volvo and VW. Even the Ford Mustang GT (*est. $26,240 to $32,245) or the high-performance Shelby GT500 (*est. $42,330 to $47,155) are suggested.
Among the many articles and reviews about the completely new BMW 1 Series, the road-test reviews written by Car and Driver, Road & Track and BusinessWeek offer the best discussion and descriptions. The Los Angeles Times and The Truth About Cars present entertaining and insightful perspectives on 1 Series pros and cons.
Our Sources
1. Car and DriverDetails/Subscribe
This is a good general road-test review of the BMW 135i, complete with test-track results and two "Counterpoint" short opinions. Editor Aaron Robinson commends the BMW 135i's performance, which he compares to the impressive previous-generation M3.
Review: 2008 BMW 135i -- Road Test, Aaron Robinson, May 2008
2. Edmunds.com
Edmunds.com editors pit their own 2002 BMW M3 long-term vehicle against a new 135i and 335i coupe. First place is a tie between the M3 and 135i. Despite several drawbacks, the 1 Series offers "the perfect combination of nimbleness, suspension compliance and tractable power delivery."
Review: Comparison Test: 2002 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 135i vs. 2008 BMW 335i, Josh Jacquot, Apr. 27, 2008
3. Road & TrackDetails/Subscribe
This road-test article is an excellent discussion of the BMW 135i, with a background and behind-the-wheel description of the car's strengths and weaknesses. Performance is great, but options add up fast.
Review: Road Test: 2008 BMW 135i, Matt Delorenzo, May 2008
4. Edmunds.com
Editors provide a good general review of the BMW 135i, including discussing its high-speed capabilities on the race track. Reviewer Dan Edmunds is impressed with the BMW's performance.
Review: Full Test: 2008 BMW 135i Coupe, Dan Edmunds, Mar. 17, 2008
The BMW 128i Convertible is the test car in this review, and the writer notes some of the differences between it and the more expensive 328i. Main points of 128i criticism are the high price when a few options are added, and "only modestly better" fuel economy than the 3 Series.
Review: BMW's New Convertible Is the 1, Thane Peterson, Apr. 21, 2008
6. Motor TrendDetails/Subscribe
While Motor Trend admits this is an unusual comparison test, both cars are similarly priced, have similar power and are enthusiast oriented. Overall, the BMW 135i takes first place, and is faster in straight-line acceleration, but, the Evolution is faster on the track.
Review: Comparison: 2008 BMW 135i vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR, Edward Loh, June 2008
In this fun review, Dan Neil writes: "The new 1 Series BMW is ugly. Seriously ugly." He also criticizes the 135i for being too similar to the 3 Series without offering a sufficient price discount or performance advantage, but acknowledges the 135i's excellent engine and driving dynamics.
Review: A BMW only a mama could love, Dan Neil, Mar. 19, 2008
Writer Mike Solowiow drives the BMW 135i and 335i coupes back-to-back and gives two reasons for choosing to buy the smaller 1 Series: "Either you need a track-day machine or you're an idiot."
Review: 2008 BMW 135i vs. 335i Review, Mike Solowiow, Apr. 21, 2008
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