Apart from highlighting the car’s supreme reliability, the testers also lauded the outstanding driving pleasure offered by their car, waxing lyrical time and again in particular about the powerful, fast-revving and very efficient straight-six power unit.

This immaculate result achieved by the BMW 130i is the most outstanding outcome of the numerous long-term tests conducted by Auto Bild in 2009. BMW’s five-door athlete completed its 100,000-km marathon within approximately 1 ½ years, covering both short trips and long journeys on the autobahn. The car completed this demanding challenge without the slightest incident and with both oil con­sumption and brake pad wear remaining extremely low throughout the entire test period.

In their final report the testers also acknowledged the high level of quality they consistently enjoyed with the BMW 130i even after its ongoing stress test. Their bottom line was that this “zero-defect car” did not show even the slightest signs of wear and tear.

All models in the BMW 1 Series combine exemplary reliability with premium quality and fascinating driving pleasure. The BMW 130i offers particularly impressive sportiness and performance with its 3.0-litre straight-six power unit featuring fully variable VALVETRONIC valve management and maximum output of 190 kW/258 hp. Accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, this outstanding five-door compact, thanks to its wide range of technologies based on BMW EfficientDynamics, consumes an average of just 8.5 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 33.2 mpg imp) in the EU test cycle.

A further feature equally unique in the compact segment is rear-wheel drive typical of BMW which, together with the car’s demanding suspension technology, precise steering, powerful and highly responsive brakes as well as DSC Dynamic Stability Control with its equally smooth response, helped to make the BMW 130i not only the most reliable, but also a particularly popular contender within the fleet of test cars driven by the editors of Auto Bild.

Another BMW also in production today already came right at the top of Auto Bild’s ranking in 2008, the BMW 320i Touring covering the entire distance of 100,000 kilometres without one single breakdown or any unscheduled visits to the workshop. Registering just three minor defects in the course of the entire test, the BMW 320i Touring likewise scored the top grade awarded by the editors, a “1”, thus currently ranking No 5 in Auto Bild’s eternal list of long-term test cars.

[Source: BMW ]

I was rather disappointed when the salesman said that the 1 Series isn’t available to display yet, but the first examples will be ready for a week or so. Too bad, I thought, I’ll be just 500 miles away then, and I’ll see the car somewhere in January, if lucky.
Angry, I walked to the parking lot where our E46 3 Series was parked, just near the service facilities. I was looking forward to see this car all summer, almost every motoring magazine had called it ugly and too radical, with minimalistic interior and cramped rear seats so I was rather eager too see if they were right.

As I approached our car, I stood in shock for several seconds – behind the service garage, there was a pristine new, silvery-blue 1 Series. Obviously, the car had arrived several hours before, the staff were still cleaning all the protective layers from its wheels.
I instantly knew that I love it – the radical design everyone was talking about looked spectacular in person. And while it had the form of a regular hatchback, it was nothing like one. The wheelbase was incredibly long with short overhangs and the bonnet was flat (unlike many other MPV-looking hatches) and long. The contours of the car were also something I’ve never seen before, with deep side flanks and complex concave-convex shapes.

In short, it was nothing like your typical family hatch.

As I walked around the car, this unusual new shape has made perfect sense: this was a car for individuals, being sporty without even starting it’s engine. The guys who were washing it have recognized my enthusiasm and they were more than welcome to let me check out the interior.

Inside, things were even better: the seating position was perfect, very low and snug, while the cabin felt a bit tight, but undeniably sporty. The dash was indeed minimalistic but in a good way, all buttons and dials were reduced to minimum and the whole center console was angled towards the driver. Panels were also following the exterior theme, with deep flanks in the door panels and concave shapes in the upper console. It had really looked as if the car was designed by a real designer, not a computer program. Almost every detail was unique, yet followed the general design theme of the whole car, starting from silvery door handles to the air inlet up front.

Excited, I left the parking lot thinking when will got the chance to drive one, it was so individual, so modern and so BMW – a perfect mix of traditional BMW values in a entirely new class of cars.

Even the marketing campaign was just like the car – you’d have to look deep to understand it. Several months after, BMW started airing the TV commercials for the 1 Series – starring Kermit the frog. The basic concept was quite simple – Kermit drives the 1 around the desert, stops to avoid the (real) frog and then goes along backed up with the slogan “Fahrfreude in der Kompaktklasse” – Joy of driving in the compact class.

It may seem pretty stale and bland, but it’s actually quite different than that.
When saying that the 1 Series is the joy of driving in the compact class, BMW makes a pretty bold statement there – it means that before the 1 Series, there was absolutely no joy in driving any other car from its class and that the 1 Series is the only car in its class to bring joy to its driver.

In many ways, that is true, specially when you consider that BMWs are always to best to drive in their class, so the smallest should be no exception.

Furthermore, it has everything that a classic BMW has, but no one in the compact class has: rear-wheel drive, perfect 50:50 weight distribution, short front overhang, aluminum front suspension and five-link rear suspension.

The reactions were mixed, the press was impressed with its handling and refinement, but the interior space and design were heavily criticized.
For example, Jeremy Clarkson said that “the 1-series is a ghastly little car with very little interior space, a boot the size of a matchbox and bread-van styling, but to drive it’s lovely.”

After the initial reactions have cooled, it is obvious that the 1 Series is a success – it is BMW’s third best-selling car, just behind the 5 Series and with the introduction of the new 2-door, coupe and convertible variants in 2007, it came second.
More recently, the 118d version was named as the 2008 World Green Car of the Year – with consumption and emissions comparable to Toyota Prius.

But the highest praise the car has ever received came few months ago, when Auto Bild stated that their long-term test 130i had absolutely no failures or defects, making it the most reliable car the magazine has EVER tested in their history.

Even now, my love for the 1 Series is still strong as it was on the day I first saw it. I’ve also got the chance to try one and it was as good as I expected it to be. When compared to its rivals, the 1 Series still looks fresh and the chassis and engines are still unmatched. After all, the competitors come from Audi, the A3, a rebadged VW Golf, and Mercedes A/B Class – practical but quite terrible to drive.

The convertible and coupe versions are even better in eyes of some, with the 135i coupe receiving five stars from Jeremy Clarkson, while the guys from Fifth Gear have tested it against Porsche Cayman (and won).

Too bad it took so long for everybody to realize how good this car is. Compromising comfort and space to make its driver feel good is unusual in this class and this stubbornness makes the 1 Series so special.

The next generation will debut sometimes in 2011 and judging by the first spy shots, it will adopt a more conventional look.
While there is no doubt that technically, it will be the class leader, I’m afraid that its distinctive character will be lost. Or are we in for a surprise….?

Time will tell, but for now, the One is my only one.

[Photos by Netcarshow ]

The Amish are renowned for their restrained appearance, and a well crafted simplicity. Loath to emulate what they view as the discordant modern world, they have shunned any affect of modernity. Amish building and furniture making is highly praised but the superficial simplicity of styling belies a well conceived and carefully constructed core.

Two simple lines define the exterior of the 1 series. The beltline runs from the tip of the front fenders all the way through the rear decklid. Higher than the beltline of the 3 series, it tends to emphasize the vertical, when the 1er is actually only marginally taller than the 3 series.

The other prominent line is the curve that runs just above the rockers on each side of the car. With a bit of a sway towards the front – it ‘pinches’ the apparent size of the wheelbase. At 104 inches the 1 series has a fairly long wheelbase and only four inches shorter than the 3 series, but that lower line does a good job disguising it.

The upper beltline has an almost nautical appeal to it, being not unlike the gunwale of small row boat – broad at the beam and straight across at the transom. To carry that nautical notion forward, imagine extending the beltline from the front edge of the fenders to beyond the front of the car and you’ll envision it ending in a point, like the prow of a boat.

In reality, BMW could have made the 1er a mini 3, using the same styling for both vehicles. But to their credit they did not. The 3 series has a much more important place in the BMW portfolio than does the 1er coupe and subsequently BMW could take more risks with the styling of the 1 coupe. While it does not appeal to everyone, it does seem to have generated enough enthusiasm to satisfy the saturation point BMW is trying to achieve with the vehicle.

The interior is decently devoid of extraneous fiddly bits and appeals to a Germanic notion of restraint. Only the instrumentation needed is provided in addition to a minimization of additional knobs, switches, and dials in the secondary controls. In fact the reductio ad absurdum of this philosophy may be the notion of one controller for all functions (iDrive anyone ; -).

The interior materials and finish from the B pillar forward are very good to excellent. In a truly premium car the grain would be matched on the center console trim – but how much did you really want to pay for a 1 series?

Behind the B pillar though, the cost cutting shines through. The backseat is finished at a fraction of the level of the equivalent 3 series coupe. The interior space and layout of the 1er is optimized for front seat passengers and only an occasional use of the rears.

BMW 1 Series Coupe Photo Gallery

The new engine, codename N55, made its debut in the BMW 535i GT and it will be seen across the BMW line-up, starting with the facelifted 3 Series Coupe and Convertible. The engine comes matted to the new seven gear double clutch transmission with sports automatic.

The Twin-Scroll engine continues to produce 306 horsepower and takes the Coupe from 0 to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds and the convertible in 5.5 seconds. These performance figures are not, however, taking a toll on the fuel consumption and the official numbers show 8.5 liter per 100 km respectively 8.6 liter per 100 km.

Inside, a new gear selector is featured for seven gear double clutch transmission with sports automatic.

This is most likely the latest update to the current 1 Series line-up, as we approach the launch of a new, redesigned model at the end 2011. But, before new models enter the market, BMW will send off the current design with a BMW M1 version based on the Coupe platform.

More on that, later this year.

The N55 powerplant uses the the innovation of twin-scroll technology and the integration of VALVETRONIC throttle-less intake technology.

This new engine promises even better throttle response and even more fuel efficiency. Thanks to VALVETRONIC, VANOS, and the twin-scroll turbocharger housing, peak torque is reached 100rpm earlier than with the previous engine, and engine boost response is improved across the entire engine speed range.

N55 develops maximum output of 300 hp at 5,800 rpm, with peak torque of 300 lb-ft available all the way from 1,200–5,000 rpm. The exciting part comes with the 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT), the first time an option for the 1 Series Coupe and Convertible.

As we mentioned last week, the old school M3 shifting paddles make a comeback. The shift paddles now feature dedicated paddles for upshifting and down shifting. The driver now pulls the right paddle for upshifts and the left for down shifts.

A more detailed article on the N55 will follow in the next days. Enjoy our amazing photo gallery!

Photos credit Shawn Molnar

The new six-cylinder (N55 designation) develops maximum output of 300 hp at 5,800 rpm, with peak torque of 300 lb-ft available all the way from 1,200–5,000 rpm. This is the same level of performance as the current 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder but with the innovation of twin-scroll technology and the integration of VALVETRONIC throttle-less intake technology, this new engine promises even better throttle response and even more fuel efficiency. Thanks to VALVETRONIC, VANOS, and the twin-scroll turbocharger housing, peak torque is reached 100rpm earlier than with the previous engine, and engine boost response is improved across the entire engine speed range.

In order to enhance the sporting character of the optional 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission, the shift paddles now feature dedicated paddles for upshifting and down shifting. The driver now pulls the right paddle for upshifts and the left for down shifts. Manual shifts may also be accomplished via the console mounted e-shifter.

Harman Kardon Surround Sound System replaces HiFi System Professional as the upgrade sound system option.

The 2011 BMW 135i Coupe and Convertible will go on sale in the United States as 2011 models in Spring 2010.

[Source: BMW ]

Last June we revealed our very own Project 1 (v1.2). It was wearing an array of parts that suited the 135i well. We received many compliments on what we had done, however we were not finished.

Our attention first went to the rear of the car. Bastuck had released a prototype US-spec quad exhaust system for the 135i. We still call it prototype as we feel the fitment is a little off for the US Spec cars with the charcoal canister. We did a little customization on our end to make the fit flawless and look like it was built in Bavaria. We are working with Bastuck to remedy the situation. The quad system just like the dual is a full cat-back system (aft of secondary cats) and utilizes Bastuck‘s own non resonated y-pipe. We opted for the non-resonated version for 2 reasons; less restriction and so we could hear the engine sing. This exhaust really lets the turbo engine sound come through. Slightly more rumble, a bit louder, and a little more “open sound” made for music to our ears.

This time around, we wrapped the 4 huge double walled 85mm Bastuck tips with 3D Design’s Carbon Fiber Diffuser. This is a 100% carbon fiber diffuser beautifully crafted in Japan. The 3D Design diffuser integrated seamlessly into the existing lines of the 1er while accentuating the aggressiveness of the car with its center mesh opening and slightly flared openings for the quad exhaust tips. Installation was simple, utilizing all the stock clips and attachment points as well as stock screws on the bottom. Fitment with the OEM bumper and larger Bastuck tips was next to perfect.

Of course, being WheelSTO we could not overlook the wheels. We feel as though wheels will either make or break a car. Although the design of the wheel plays a major role, it is not just one factor but a combination of design, offset, color, drop in height and even the rubber that defines the overall feel and look of the car. For months we have been debating what wheels to go with after we decided to bid farewell to our 3pc Klassen wheels. The Klassen wheels were a thing of beauty with smoked lips and sophisticated liquid metal color and 3pc design, but we knew it was time to carry on the aggressive racy theme of the quad exhaust.

We had always been infatuated with Yokohama Advan’s design styles, and build quality. We even thought about trying to fit the aggressive sizing Advan RS (fitment meant for the E90 3 series). I am sure that we could have pulled it off with some fender rolling and camber adjustment and Frank (our resident drifter would have loved it too). Too bad for Frank, Advan released news of the Advan RZ for BMW fitments and even better, an E82 specific fitment. We jumped on the opportunity by calling our Yokohama distributor to pre order a couple of sets.

The sizing that was released was 19×8 +45 and 19×9 +50 and we opted for the Gunmetal finish to complete the dark menacing look. We wrapped them in Yokohama Advan AD08, 225/35/19 and 255/30/19. These tires perform incredibly when carving through corners and look great when parked. They run slightly wider than most other major brands and therefore we did encounter some rubbing with our aggressive drop on H&R Sport Springs. With a slightly narrower tire design (perhaps Falken or Toyo), this setup should be a perfect no rubbing solution. Either way, the car felt great and the rubbing was minimal.

Our 1er (version 1.1) grabbed a lot of attention with the matte black vinyl work we had done on the door panels. Whereas this door panel with huge “WSTO” on the side worked very well for us “commercially”, we wanted a more subtle design that will be the envy of other BMW enthusiasts. The vinyl scheme was stripped but we decided to keep the matte black. Only this time, we added two stripes stretching from the headlights all the way back to the tail lights for a subtle street look. We think that this was an especially nice design by our resident designer/photographer, Johan.

WSTO is proud to present you with video of our Project 1 v.1.2

We decided to launch a video in addition to the numerous photoshoot to try and truly capture the essence of what WSTO has been trying to do with the 135i.

Our goal for the video was to show the potential of not only the 1 series, but any other car and show that with passion and creativity and of course a mix of the right modifications, you can truly achieve your dream ride, which would be totally unique to you.

The focus was also on making sure that all components used to build the project 1 are off-the-shelf, bolt-on items that can easily be acquired and put on by anyone.

Your imagination is truly your limit when it comes to modding your cars and in today’s tuning world, you can get an array of products that will not only make your car faster, but look different and unique.

Lastly, we truly believe that modding should be about you and not about what others say it is and that it should be fun.

Disclosure: WheelSTO is a sponsor of our website

But without any further ado, let’s find out more about the car and BMW’s plans in Australia:

“118d hatchback takes fuel economy battle to hybrids but is even better to drive. We also sample twin-turbo diesel versions of the 1-Series hatch and convertible coming to Australia at the end of the year.

BMW’s 1-Series is set to surpass the fuel efficiency of the current Toyota Prius within a few years with a range of three-cylinder turbo engines, but for now there’s a model that still comes close.

The 118d hatch will arrive in Australia in December as BMW’s most fuel efficient car, using just 4.5 litres per 100km according to official fuel consumption figures. And cleanest, with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of 119g/km.

The five-door, voted 2008 World Green Car of the Year, forms just a tenth of a new group of 1-Series models that will see BMW’s smallest car range outnumber its biggest-selling range, the 3-Series.”

Full article continued

“Marrying sharp driving dynamics and strong performance credentials with drip-sipping fuel consumption figures and a low carbon footprint sounds like a match that, if not already deep in couple’s therapy, is well en route to a bitter divorce.

In fact most so-called green vehicles are about as exciting to drive a fun park go-kart – you know, the ones that couldn’t fight their way out of the proverbial wet paper bag – a stigma I’m certain no self-discerning driving enthusiast would dare want gracing their garage.

BMW’s Efficient Dynamics program has set about changing the ‘green means gutless’ philosophy with a range of cars that finally melds the best of both worlds expectation that, until now, has been sorely lacking.

Combining on-road substance with environmental responsibility the 120d features a powerful yet lean 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine mated to a slick shifting six-speed manual gearbox and intelligent stop-start technology.

The result is an eager performing five-door hatch capable of accelerating from rest to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds whilst simultaneously delivering a hybrid-esque fuel consumption figure of just 5.2L/100km (combined, as tested).”

Full article

In the past, several 1 Series Hatchback models have been still spotted on U.S. soil, some of them registered them in Mexico to embassy diplomats while others belonging to BMW suppliers (Bosch).

One of our readers, Dal, spotted another 1 Series Hatch in Los Angeles and unfortunately, we’re going to shatter your dreams: the car is still registered in Mexico and not an actual test mule.

The next generation 1 Series is due in 2011 and we’re hoping that along with the four-cylinder engines, the 5-door hatchback style will make it across the ocean also.

In a way, this surprises us since in his review, he mentions how much he enjoyed the 135i Coupe model, a vehicle that is very similar to the convertible. design, dynamics and performance of that car are nearly identical with the convertible model, hence our confusion, but let’s take a look at what Jeremy had to say.

“Joy’s not really a German thing, I suppose. We do joy. The Americans do joy. The Italians do joy, even though they never laugh. Germans, though? They’re rather better at precision and accuracy and following orders. Which is why I can’t quite understand what went wrong with the new convertible version of the 135i.

It is featured right at the start of the “joy” commercial. The driver is an old man in a hat who is smiling enormously, presumably because he’s just caught a glimpse in the rear-view mirror of his comedy moustache. Certainly, it’s not because of the car.

I like the hard-top 135 very much. In a road test on these pages, I said it harked back to the big engine/small car philosophy that crystalised the BMW range back in the early Eighties. I even gave it five stars, and so I was looking forward to driving its convertible sister.

The 3-litre engine’s unchanged and it’s still great. You have one little turbo that gets you going and then another enormous turbo that kicks in if you really need some clout to overtake. The result is better economy allied to a seamless, relentless, muscular stream of power that’s never exciting or zingy, but always there, ready to arm wrestle its way into your consciousness.

However, the convertible is 254lb heavier than the coupé and that iron lard makes its presence felt every time you put your foot down. This car is as zesty as Stonehenge.

Of course, you’d imagine that with 254lb of strengthening material, it would at least be rigid and strong. But no. All the time the steering wheel is wobbling and vibrating, and sometimes you can actually feel the flex that is sort of inevitable when the front and the back are joined together by only the floor and a bit of Millets canvas.

I don’t doubt that, in extremis, the 135 will handle nicely. And we know it’s quite fast. But there is no excitement here. Not even a crumb of joy.”

Full Article Continued

Our close friends and long time supporters of our blog, Julius and his team at WheelSTO, have an exciting project to share with us: a BMW 135i Coupe which went through a series of modifications. As always, we will let them share the story behind the Project 135i.

We picked up our 135i in September 2008. We instantly fell in love with its gorgeous looks, well designed interior, powerful motor, and more importantly the way it made the driver feel completely in control. We chose Black Sapphire Metallic as it’s a beautiful spin on the standard black. Understated and looks brilliant in the sunlight. The car came with the beautiful Coral Red interior as well. As soon as we got it back to the shop we knew we were in for a really good experience.

We drove the car stock, and really enjoyed BMW’s masterpiece. Being WSTO and car enthusiasts, it didn’t stay stock for long. Within 1 week we had our Bastuck 2×85mm exhaust system, Bastuck y-pipe, and Riss Racing downpipe installed on the car. It surprisingly opened up the feeling of the engine, and gave it a great deep powerful sound. Even with a cat-less downpipe, the sound was not “too loud”, and it’s almost silent inside the cabin while cruising. But push the pedal on the right closer to the floor, and almost as if the engine knows what you want, the turbo’s spool and a glorious sound fills your ears. After we were done making our ears happy, we moved onto our eyes.

3D Design makes quality aero products coming straight from Japan. We opted for the front lip spoiler and rear trunk lip. The front lip is understated, and flows very well with the stock body lines. The trunk lip spolier, swoops up finishing the flow of the already rounded trunk lid.

The addition of BMW performance shadow line grilles finished off the exterior. Next we needed to work on the stance of the car. Thanks to some H&R sport springs, lowering us 1.8″ up front and 1.2″ out back, it brought us closer to the ground and set there car where it should be from the factory. Two months after we picked up the car it looked and sounded great!

As good as it looked, we of course, were not done. We knew we needed some wheels. Here at WheelSTO, your premium wheel depot, we needed something that would stand out. Our good friends at Klassen Leichtmetallrader had just what we needed. We opted for their 5.1, which offered a classic and sporty design. The 3 piece construction meant that we could pick out the perfect offset, and get the largest lip possible. We went with 19×8.5 +40 in front and 19×9.5 +48 in back. The spokes were finished in their liquid black, and completed with a liquid smoke lip. Wrapped them in some super sticky Toyo Proxes T1R sized, 225/35-19 and 255/30-19. Combined with the nice drop this really set our car apart from the rest. Our wheel fitment was perfect and to this day we have yet to experience any rubbing.

Next place that needed attention was of course the engine bay. We got some extra power from the addition of an AFE dual cone intake. It gave the car a nice tone and some extra power up top. The good guys over at Synapse Engineering helped us increase the life of our lovely turbo’s with their charge pipe and blow off valve kit. The best upgrade we did was a new tune from L.E.T. Motorsports (Eurocharged). The upgraded boost and fuel/timing maps turned the car into a rocket. Merging onto the freeway is now a fun process thanks to our engine modifications.

We love the OEM interior but thought it needed some little performance oriented additions. Some simple upgrades from 3D design gave us just what we needed. 3D design pedal covers, as well as their dead pedal cover gave us more grip on the pedals and a sporty look. Sitting next to those we place a set of 3D design floor mats to keep the carpet free from the dust and dirt of daily driving.

We are far from done with our 135i and love it more and more each day. Keep checking our blog for more information and beautiful pictures from Johan, as we transform our 1er from a grocery getter to a really fast grocery getter!

Many BMW owners, tuning and modding shops had and still have fun modifying the standard features and convert the Coupe into an iconic racecar. The white painted 135i Coupe featured in our article belongs to David S., a long time reader of our blog and an even bigger BMW fan. The tuned up 135i made its debut this year at the 24 hour race at Nurburgring and was praised by the press and the community present at the event.

Together with his friends, David S. created a 135i Motorsport kit that turns the 135i Coupe into a real race car. With that being said, let’s take a look at some of the changes implemented by them:

Engine

The standard 326 horsepower has been increased to 360 ponies coming out of  the award-winning N54, but all of this with a hefty price: 2,400 euros.

Bodywork

As with any respectable racing car, the exterior design elements revolve around the use of fiber carbon, starting with the M3 E92 style hood, trunk, front-bumper and doors.

Suspension/Wheels

The 135i Motorsport runs on 18″ wheels and uses the Intrax Suspension 4-way(around 5,500 euros).

Interior

Again, plenty of carbon fiber parts, a performance steering wheel, sifter and of course, the beautiful Recaro Pole Position seats.(1,550 euros each)

For complete pricing, details or more photos, feel free to visit Motorsport24.de (English Translation)

Thanks for the tip David!

You always help us with stories, tips and wonderful comments, so it is only fair that we would give something back, from time to time. The “BMW Of The Week” series is a way for us to express our gratitude by featuring some lucky cars in our weekly post, a car that will be seen by hundreds of thousands of readers every month.

The Flickr BMWBLOG Group gives us  plenty of choices when it comes to choosing the weekly bimmer, but those choices can be very difficult. Some cars stand out with their tuning jobs, others with mods and extraordinary photography. In some cases, the car itself needs to “pampering” and can be simply stunning.

Well, today we’re going back to the 1 Series – last week we saw a modded 135i Coupe that belongs to Mohammad, one of our long time readers – and we’re bringing you another stunning 1 Series Coupe.

The beautiful 135i Coupe belongs to Mark Jardine and the license plate says it all: he is a true “1Addict”. As usual, words cannot describe it best, so we’ll let the photos do the talk.

Thanks for the shots Mark!

The 118d runs from 0 to 62 mph in 9.0 seconds and it is electronically limited to 130 mph. BMW claims a combined fuel economy of 52.3 MPG and CO2 emissions of 119g/k.

In the UK, the 118d starts at £20,500 and £23,375 for the M Sport variant.

Second model introduced is the 120i Coupe, a gasoline powered 2.0 liter engine which produces 167 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque; top speed of 139 mph and running from still to 62 mph in 7.8 seconds.

The fuel consumption is rated at 35 mpg and CO2 emissions are 153g/km. Pricing? Slightly higher than the diesel variant, £21,115 for the standard model and £23,990 for the M Sport Package one.

The first car will be deliver on September 1st.

[Source: Autocar ]

At this moment, there are almost 400 photos of your own bimmers and it’s growing every day. Our goal is to reach 1,000 within the next few months and eventually create the largest BMW photo gallery.

So let’s recap a little bit what we’ve done in the past. Week 1 winner trophy was awarded to not one, but three bimmers: 1987 E24 M6, 1992 E36 325iS and 1974 BMW 2002. In the second week, the award went to the previous generation E83 Z4 Roadster with some of the best scenery photos we have seen so far. Third week and the most controversial one, was all about this “funky” modded E36 BMW which went a bit over the top.

So…….the week four award for the most interesting BMW goes to…..Mohammed, one of our longest time readers here at BMWBLOG. Mohammed’s 135i Coupe is one of those bimmers that just stands out. Of course, the suspension upgrades help also, giving the car an even more aggressive stance, not that it ever needed.

We won’t reveal all the details about this 135i Coupe since we will give it an entire article very soon, showing the visual differences prior and after the upgrades.

In the mean time, enjoy the photos and please head over to our Flickr BMWBLOG Group and add some more.

Two additional, extra-economical low-emission engine variants are enhancing the model range of the BMW 1 Series Coupé as of September 2009: In the guise of the BMW 120i Coupé and the BMW 118d Coupé there will then be two further models with the EU5 emission rating.

Following the successful launch of the new entry-level three-door and five-door models, the BMW 116i and the BMW 116d, in spring 2009, the BMW 1 Series is once again proving its value as the pacemaker for efficient mobility combined with outstanding driving pleasure in the compact class. Other new models as of September 2009 are the Lifestyle and Sport Editions of the BMW 1 Series three- and five-door.

Still the only rear-wheel-drive model in the compact segment, the BMW 1 Series offers a unique blend of sporting driving pleasure and outstanding efficiency. Particularly the BMW 1 Series Coupé brings out this character so typical of the brand in truly convincing style, with two new entry-level versions of the two-door featuring a gasoline and a diesel engine coming into the market in September 2009: The new BMW 120i Coupé is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with BMW High Precision Injection (direct gasoline injection) developing 125 kW/170 hp at 6, 700 rpm and peak torque of 210 Newton-metres/155 lb-ft at 4, 250 rpm, accelerating the BMW 120i Coupé from zero to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and offering a top speed of 224 km/h or 149 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 6.6 litres/ 100 kilometres, the CO2 emission rating is 153 grams per kilometre.

An award-winning four-cylinder diesel makes the new BMW 118d Coupé the most efficient car of its kind, the diesel engine with its aluminium crankcase, turbocharging and common-rail fuel injection helping the three-door BMW 118d win the World Green Car of the Year 2008 Award. Displacing 2.0 litres, this high-tech power unit develops 105 kW/143 hp at 4, 000 rpm and delivers maximum torque of 300 Newton-metres/221 lb-ft between 1, 750 and 2, 500 rpm.

This outstanding power unit offers an unbeatable combination of performance and fuel economy also in the Coupé, the BMW 118d Coupé accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds and reaching a top speed of 210 km/h or 130 mph. Offering average fuel consumption according to the EU standard of 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 62.8 mpg imp) and a CO2 emission rating of 119 grams per kilometre, this compact athlete clearly proves its outstanding talent in terms of both all-round economy and clean emissions.

The BMW 1 Series – the pacemaker in reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Both new variants of the BMW 1 Series Coupé come as standard with a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration, an Auto Start Stop function, a gearshift point indicator and ancillary units with on-demand management and control. Both the BMW 120i Coupé and the BMW 118d Coupé naturally fulfil the EU5 emission standard, meaning that the BMW 1 Series alone now comes with 21 models complying with this requirement. A further important point is that five models in the BMW 1 Series already offer a CO2 emission rating of less than 120 grams per kilometre, with the BMW 116d standing out as the absolute leader in terms of fuel economy and emission management. The four-cylinder diesel engine featured in this particular version of the BMW 1 Series delivers maximum torque of 260 Newton-metres or 192 lb-ft and, in combination with BMW EfficientDynamics also featured as standard in this model, allows average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 4.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 64.2 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 118 grams per kilometre.

The technologies developed by BMW – and naturally featured at no extra cost – to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions play a particularly significant role in the successful BMW 1 Series. Indeed, this makes BMW an important role model for the entire automotive industry, with BMW still selling more cars with high-efficiency technology each month than other car makers in the course of a whole year. At the same time the consistent expansion of the BMW 1 Series by the addition of particularly economical model variants including the new BMW 116i delivering maximum output of 90 kW/122 hp and peak torque increased to 185 Newton-metres or 136 lb-ft makes a significant contribution to the success achieved by BMW in recent times in reducing average fleet fuel consumption. Between 2006 and 2008 alone, the average fuel consumption of BMW’s models in the German market was reduced by no less than 16 per cent, BMW therefore exceeding the rate of reduction of the next-best competitor in the premium segment more than twice.

Exclusive and full of character: the BMW 1 Series Lifestyle and Sport Editions.

Apart from outstanding efficiency and the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of the brand, innovative features and uncompromising premium quality help to give the BMW 1 Series a truly prominent position in its segment – and now the new Lifestyle und Sport Edition Models add further class and style to these characteristic features. The Edition Models excel in particular through particularly attractive, high-quality and carefully matched features and equipment, and are available on all engine variants of the three-door and five-door.

The Lifestyle Edition exudes stylish extravagance both on the exterior and in the interior of the BMW 1er, highlighted by body paintwork in exclusive Marrakesh Brown Metallic including additional components in body colour and chrome-plated tailpipes as well as exclusive light-alloy rims in five-spoke design. All models come with 17-inch wheels.

On the five-door the exterior is rounded off by the car’s special finish on the window shaft covers and side window surrounds in Shadow Line, on the three-door in Chrome Line. Chrome entry trim proudly bearing the name “BMW Edition“, a leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons, and roof lining in anthracite colour provide a particular touch of modern elegance within the interior.

The exclusivity of the Lifestyle Edition is highlighted to an even higher level of perfection by the interior colour scheme matched to the colour of the paintwork. Features include interior trim in high-gloss Marrakesh Brown as well as door panels and seat upholstery in Magma Brown. And as an alternative to Network cloth upholstery there is also the choice of Pearlpoint upholstery with Magma Brown cloth / leather.

The exterior and interior features are also carefully matched to one another on the Sport Edition Model, giving the BMW 1 Series particularly dynamic and powerful character. The Edition Models come as standard with the M Sports Package including the M Aerodynamics Package, a sports suspension set-up as well as 17-inch light-alloy wheels in dual-spoke design. The BMW 130i and BMW 123d feature 18-inch light-alloy wheels in Ferric Grey paintwork available as an option also on the other model variants. Exclusive Blackline rear lights, exterior features in body colour, Shadow Line on the window shaft covers and side window surrounds, foglamps and chrome-plated tailpipes on the exhaust round off the striking look of the exterior.

The sporting and exclusive flair of the interior is highlighted by chrome-plated entry trim bearing the name “BMW Edition“, stainless-steel pedals, an M footrest, an M sports steering wheel, an M gearshift lever complete with its gaiter made of soft nappa leather, interior trim in Aluminium Glacier Silver and roof lining in anthracite colour. As yet a further highlight the BMW 1 Series Sport Edition comes with sports seats for the driver and front passenger in a combination of cloth and Sensatec featuring blue ornamental stitching around the seat bottoms and headrests. And to provide the final touch the footmats are adorned by blue piping.

Navigations system Business in the BMW 1 Series now featuring an integrated storage of navigation data and optimised display technology.

In conjunction with one of the navigation systems available as an option the BMW 1 Series proudly boasts the new generation of BMW iDrive electronic vehicle management. Entering the 2010 model year, the BMW 1 Series furthermore comes as an option with a new version of the Business navigation system, its new control concept allowing even easier and more precise control through iDrive featuring direct choice and favourite buttons.

The new Control Display with 800 x 480 pixel image resolution ensures detailed presentation of maps in two dimensions or in a perspective view, complete with integrated arrow graphics. Storage of navigation data installed within the car serves to provide even faster access to the system. And last but not least, the audio unit included within the new control system comes complete with a CD player.

[Source: BMW ]

We test drove both the 135i Convertible with U.S. specs, but also the the 125i Cabrio available in Europe. Our conclusion?

Quite positive and in-line with other publications have posted, the 1 Series Convertible are fun, sporty and a threat to the other cabrios out there.

Let’s see what MotorWeek thinks about the BMW 1 Series Convertible:

“For open-air exhilaration, our choice for best convertible is the BMW 1-Series Convertible. While BMW’s smallest series, its big personality includes all the prowess, safety, and innovation BMW is known for. We welcomed its no-nonsense, power soft-top with a glass backlight, that can be raised or lowered in 22 seconds—even while moving. Wind buffeting is virtually non-existent. Power comes from the same 6-cylinder engines found in the 3-Series, while the car’s rigid platform offers a very nimble drive. It’s the perfect car for sun worshippers and driving enthusiasts alike.”

While it’s hard for me to part with my 335i, every time I’ve driven the 1 Series Convertible or Coupe, I felt completely connected to the car and a viable solution for anyone looking to spend a bit less than a 3 Series. As one of my friends said, “this is truly a car made for the driver”.

Once again, great recognition for BMW and we look forward to the next revolutionary BMW 1 Series.

“Is 300 hp too much power for a compact, four-passenger sport coupe? Back in 1974, singer Barry White softly spoke the timeless line, “I’ve heard people say that too much of anything is not good for you, baby.”

Although White, of course, was referring to the love of a woman, nearly everyone who got behind the wheel of our Four Seasons 2008 BMW 135i coupe had similar thoughts about the twin-turbo six under its hood: was it simply too much for this little car?”

Before you jump into their lengthy article, here are some of the overall stats posted by them:

RUNNING COSTS

Mileage
20,683 miles
Warranty
4-yr/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper
4-yr/50,000-mile maintenance
4-yr/unlimited-mile roadside assistance
12-yr/unlimited-mile corrosion
Scheduled maintenance
15,548 mi: $0
Warranty repairs
5696 mi: Replace low-pressure fuel pump, per service bulletin
Out-of-pocket
16,909 mi: Purchase, mount, and balance four Pirelli SottoZero run-flat winter tires, $956Recalls
None
Fuel consumption
EPA city/hwy/combined
17/25/20 mpg
Observed 21 mpg
Cost per mile
(Fuel, service, winter tires) $0.20
($0.77 including depreciation)

Continue reading 2008 BMW 135i Coupe Review

As BMW mentions on their Performance Accessories page, the exhaust system invigorates engine output by allowing engine by-products to exit the vehicle more efficiently. Performance is being slightly increased as well, up to 5 horsepower at 6,000 RPM.

But probably the most exciting thing about this BMW Performance Exhaust is the sound, that “roaring”, deep sound that makes our skin crawl. While the original exhaust already “screams of power”, the upgraded Performance system takes it a bit further.

Click here to view the embedded video.

BMW North America advertises the Performance Exhaust System as $1,095, but the final price may vary based on installation costs and taxes. As we mentioned earlier, all the Performance Accessories are automatically covered under the original warranty or 2-years/24,000 miles.

Thanks for the video Mohammed!