Overview & Reviews

BMW doesn't usually do retro, but the BMW 1 Series, a spiritual successor to the iconic 2002 coupe, comes pretty close. Produced for the 2008-'13 model years, the 1 Series coupe and convertible were meant to evoke the same passion that the 2002 did. As the company's entry-level model for those years, the 1 Series offers true BMW performance at a surprisingly affordable price. Its styling may be an acquired taste, but the 1 Series retains much of its original appeal today as one of the best values on the used-car market.

Note that the 1 Series' successor, the 2 Series, is reviewed separately, as is the rare 1 Series M coupe.

Used BMW 1 Series Models
The BMW 1 Series debuted for the 2008 model year and ran through 2013. It was available as either a two-door coupe or a convertible with a power-operated fabric roof that folds underneath a hard tonneau cover.

Although it was the company's least expensive model at the time, the rear-wheel-drive 1 Series had no shortage of motivation under the hood. The 128i came with a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-6 producing 230 horsepower, while the 135i stepped up to a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 with 300 hp. The 135is packed an even higher-output version of the turbo-6 (320 hp).

Standard features on the base-model 128i included 17-inch alloy wheels, premium vinyl upholstery and a 10-speaker sound system. The 135i was differentiated by its turbo engine, 18-inch wheels, xenon headlights, slightly different front and rear fascias and a sport-tuned suspension. Some of these items were also available on the 128i. The 135is was sold for 2013 only with a bit more power than the regular 135i, plus standard sport seats and some aesthetic tweaks.

All 1 Series models offered a bevy of luxurious options familiar from BMW's pricier offerings, including leather upholstery (with sun-reflective surfaces on the convertible), the iDrive infotainment system with navigation, keyless ignition and entry and premium audio.

The 1 Series saw a few powertrain changes during its run. Initially, the 135i's engine employed twin turbochargers and was a bit less fuel-efficient, but the 2011-'13 models (including the 135is) switched to a newer design with a single turbocharger. Those models also received an optional seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission known as DCT, whereas the previous 135i -- and all years of the 128i -- offered a conventional six-speed automatic. A six-speed manual transmission was standard on every 1 Series.

In reviews, we found the 1 Series' handling to be simply superb. Precise steering combined with a well-balanced chassis make both coupe and convertible feel right at home on a coastal freeway or a serpentine mountain road. Body roll is minimal, and the overall dynamics on models fitted with the Sport package will win approval from all but the most hard-core enthusiast drivers.

The 1 Series' turbocharged engines are incredibly versatile and offer an intense slug of power and acceleration with hardly any turbo lag, though the response of the gas pedal can be less than immediate. An overlooked gem is the 128i's non-turbocharged inline-6, which delivers smooth yet potent thrust in classic BMW fashion. This engine may be of particular interest because the 128i's replacement, the 228i, employs a turbocharged four-cylinder, so the naturally aspirated inline-6 marks the end of an era. But no matter which 1 Series you choose, you're in for a good time.

Interior materials are a step down from other BMWs, but the overall effect is still pleasingly upscale. The rear seat is strictly for two, and how often it gets used will depend on how large and how forgiving potential rear passengers are. There's not a lot of space back there, so it's almost better to consider the 1 as having a sports car-like 2+2 seating arrangement -- especially the convertible.

Powertrains aside, the 1 Series saw mostly minor changes during its production run. A new iDrive system debuted for 2009 with significant upgrades; we do not recommend the inferior iDrive interface offered in first-year (2008) models. A sunroof was standard on 128i coupes until 2010, while the 2012 lineup was treated to minor exterior styling revisions and refinished interior controls. The 135is headlined the 1 Series' farewell tour for 2013.

Although it was new to the North American market for 2008, the 1 Series actually debuted for the European market in 2004 as a hatchback.

User Reviews:

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  From a MINI to a BMW - 2009 BMW 1-Series
  By LG - September 23 - 9:42 pm

  I have driven BMWs before and it seems all the interiors all pretty much the same. I would like to have nicer buttons for the radio. Also, I am very disappointed that the mirror on the sun visors do not have lights. What a bummer for such car! Response is awesome compared to the MINI but the mileage per gallon consumption went down 25%. The handling of the car does not compare with the so much fun go- kart driving of the MINI. I guess I compromised on that. Overall I am happy with it.

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  Good compromise in a small package - 2009 BMW 1-Series
  By massa - September 10 - 4:25 pm

  The car is small and very fun to drive. The 128i engine has plenty of power. Very comfortable seats (sport option). The rear seats have more room that you may think, and gave to the car a great practical aspect. Trunk space also is not too bad, but it is a fun car. Inside noise, with top up or down is very low. No annoying rattles. Fuel economy: just ok. Fuel tank is small. The Ipod option works well.

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  Sport, yet refined - 2009 BMW 1-Series
  By james - September 4 - 11:25 am

  Went from a Honda civic, so naturally am impressed with the handling of this well made auto. It has plenty of power, with excellent cornering and braking. Everyone in the family says it makes me look younger!

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  Love my 128i - 2009 BMW 1-Series
  By SciFiChick - August 28 - 9:13 am

  What can you say about a car that makes your eyes tear up when you look at it? The styling is retro enough to make you skip a heartbeat, yet new enough to make you double your heartbeats. The performance is top notch (with the Sports package of course). Its fun to drive, fast, and BEAUTIFUL to look at.

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  An Expensive 1 or Inexpensive M? - 2009 BMW 1-Series
  By RJ - August 17 - 11:28 am

  This is my first BMW, and prior to this, I had hardly ever ridden in a BMW. This car is simply amazing. When you see the sticker price, youll quickly realize that you are not at the local Hyundai dealership, but when you hit the gas, you wont likely recall anything from Korea, Japan, or Detroit with the driving dynamics of this Bavarian masterpiece. Im not claiming the vehicle is "perfect," but its as close to perfect a vehicle as Ive ever found. Even the notoriously picky Consumer Reports gave the 135i the highest rating in its respective class. That "trademark" BMW straight six force fed by two turbos is simply exhilarating.

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  1 Series...dynamite - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By Bob - August 15 - 9:31 am

  Exceptional performance, fun and reliability. Purchased my 135i convertible in Dec 2008 (good time to buy, great deal, low 0.9 financing). Must say we are a BMW family, and also own a 535i, and previously owned a 330i and Z3 (3.0) so we are biased to the exceptional service, warranty, and purchase experience at BMW. Have put 24K miles on it in 9 months with no problems. Very comfortable for one or two people, excellent seats and ergonomics. Purchased this as a replacement to a 2001 Z3 3.0 with 200K miles, so I view the small back seat as extended cargo space. Smooth, for its class, on the highway and exceptional on back roads and acceleration. A true wolf in sheeps clothing.

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  Great Car... Really - 2009 BMW 1-Series
  By gman - July 28 - 4:12 pm

  Weve had this car a few months. Overall the best car weve ever owned. BMW service is the same as with a car for $100k, so you feel like a king! Sport package is the way to go, car grips the road and never lets go. 128i is way over powered, you will for sure get a ticket. Driver and front passenger seating with power seats is great. Back seat is terrible for bigger folk. Good only for kids or the dog. We like the small size of the car for zipping around town and out to the lake. Good ride quality. We have a squeak in the back seat. We are addressing this build issue with BMW. BMW has treated us well so far, but we are headed back for a second try for the repair.

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  My 2008 128i Convertible - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By DTMEDIC - July 24 - 11:53 pm

  I just bought a NEW 2008 model from the showroom floor. Its loaded with every conceivable option but I got the car nearly $6,000 off invoice. Still pricey... but definitely worth it! I cant say enough about this little gem! It is the MOST fun Ive ever had driving! I wake up every morning and cannot WAIT to drive my car to work! I love the top down fun with my iPod tunes blasting. The iDrive is a little quirky, but once you figure it out, its fine. The ride is superb, the fit and finish is all BMW... the drive and handling is exactly what you would expect... perfection. Love it, love it, love it... you will NOT be sorry you bought this car! Just do it!

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  Fun Fun Fun!!! - 2009 BMW 1-Series
  By Ed Farr - July 21 - 6:32 pm

  Traded in my 2006 Black Nissan 350Z for a base 128i with comfort access since I needed the back seats and man, I cant stop driving it!!! Compared to the Z, I am getting better MPG and I get the back seats! This is the most fun car I have ever driven.

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  BMW128i - After 15 months - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By JFi - July 17 - 10:24 am

  Even after 15 months, I still absolutely love this car. Its very unique as you dont see many around, so thats a nice touch. Wasnt even in the market when I bought the car, but had to have it once I drove it. The handling of this car is very smooth and very precise, glides through corners and turns with ease and precision. Lots of power for a car this size. Others are surprised by how fast and quick this little car can be. I dont think of it as a true sports car (although the backseat is basically unusable) because its got a great ride for a car that is so low to the ground (no sport package) and lots of nice luxury touches as well. Nothing else like it on the road.