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Preview: 1 Coupe Scoop! July 1, 2007 ) High performance in a tight little package, the 135i harks back to the iconic BMW 2002. Click on images for larger views.
For many North Americans, the 1 coupe will represent a new level of affordable BMW performance when it goes on sale in the early spring of 2008. And potent performance, it promises — especially in 135i guise, packing a 300-horsepower twin-turbo six-cylinder, 18-inch wheels and tires, sport suspension, beefy brakes and other go-fast goodies. These are the same specs as the larger 335i coupe but the 135i is about 200 pounds lighter. And herein lie the purpose and inspiration of the 1 coupe. The 3 Series is a direct descendant of the iconic 2002 of 40 years ago, a BMW notable for high performance in a tight little package, however, the 3 has grown up and out over the years — in size and price. This has left a gap for the 1 to fill. In addition to the 135i, the 1 coupe will be available as a 128i, using another 3 Series engine, the 3.0-liter 230-horse inline-six. ) Handsome 18-inch alloy wheels are standard on the 135i.
A long hood and short deck lid characterize the 1 coupe, with concave and convex surfaces, and pronounced lines that flow from the front fenders right into the trunk lid. The trunk rises in the center to form a subtly integrated spoiler. The 135i boasts a further, very slight and almost invisible, lip spoiler (look very closely for this thin strip) for greater down force at high speeds. The overall style gives an impression of speed and agility even when the 1 is at standstill. Adaptive bi-xenon headlights with cornering lights are standard on the 135i, optional on the 128i. Luminous rings function as daytime running lights. It is not clear whether foglights will be available. The L-shaped taillamps feature LED strips and standard adaptive brake lights, which light up in two intensities depending on pedal pressure. In typical BMW fashion, the 1's interior shows off high-grade materials, including Boston leather or leatherette, and galvanized pearl gloss surfaces on knobs, door handles and trim.
iDrive is part of the optional navigation system, enabling secondary and comfort functions such as communication, air conditioning, entertainment and navigation through this interface. This latest version of iDrive has six programmable memory buttons for frequently used functions such as navigation destinations, radio stations or specific phone numbers. Touch sensors preview the function on the iDrive screen before the button is depressed. Audio and communication choices include Sirius satellite radio, high-definition radio, a premium sound system and Bluetooth interface. An auxiliary jack allows for the easy connection of an MP3 player while a USB port, for connecting an iPod or iPhone, is optional. ) The 135i looks fast even standing still. BMW's philosophy of nearly perfect weight distribution for optimum handling carries over to the 1 coupe. So the engine is up front, the drive wheels out back. A sophisticated aluminum double-pivot front suspension and light-metal five-link fully independent rear suspension offer a sporty but compliant ride. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard, active steering optional. The DSC on the 135i is designed specifically for spirited driving, including a gas pedal with a quicker response rate and electronic rear-brake management to simulate a differential lock for stronger acceleration in turns. There's nothing quite like the 1 Series coupe in the marketplace today — a compact rear-driver with such massive helpings of both high performance and high luxury. Stay tuned to Autobahn Report for all the latest info and photos on the hot new 1 coupe. Also see: 1 Series Coupe Photos )
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