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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  Love my 135 - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By TGman - May 16 - 12:02 am

  Just received my 135. Its the best car Ive driven. I drove a wide range of cars ranging at all different price points up to over $100k. For $40k though, you can have one great performance car. Id say the sports package is a must have. The iDrive takes some practice to get used to. The brakes are just amazing on the 1! 60 to 0 length is on par with far more exotic cars. Oh and one more thing, I think this car looks WAY better in person compared to photos.

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  An ugly little car thats fun to drive - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By coldwinterland - May 11 - 2:28 pm

  Its only a few hundred pounds lighter than the 3-series, but it feels a lot more light and nimble when you drive it. Both manual/auto transmissions are great: the shifting action of the manual is precise and confident the clutch is predictable and easy to engage. There isnt much sacrifice at all in ride comfort because of its relatively tight dimension and suspension tuning. It truly is a great fun little car to toss around. Its certainly not as edgy or raw as the M3 (E46 or E92), but feels as quick and manuvable if not more (especially when compared to the new portlier E92 M3), and it has better gas mileage.

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  Performance Meets Luxury! - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By Scribe23 - May 6 - 12:45 pm

  Its always a challenge to find a sporty performance car that is also luxurious, comfy and practical enough to be a primary vehicle. Simply put, this is the coolest, most fun, best equipped car Ive ever driven.

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  Pocket Rocket! - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By Colossus - April 23 - 3:35 pm

  I was looking for something fun to to drive and this IS IT! Drove G37, G35, TL-S, even a 335i. This is by far more responsive, fastest, and more enjoyable. Love the simple, but functional interior.

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  Yikes! Its fabulous - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By mr. rogers - April 21 - 11:00 pm

  Picked up a new 128i. Fun to drive, easy to park, brakes fabulously, accelerates like a rocket - sure not like the 135i but close enough. Great car, great ride, great BMW feel.

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  Better Than a Porsche 911 - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By Henry - April 18 - 7:11 am

  Just traded in an 03 911 for the 135i--wow, for about half the MSRP, I think I got twice the car. This is my first sports car without a stick shift. Love the beefy aluminum paddle shifters. Car absolutely flies. Inside is very quiet, except for the growl from the 300 hp engine. My Porsche was loud and uncomfortable and the 135 is so comfortable. I got the sport package and the seats are amazing. The thigh support is great for long trips. Car is an A+ and really does rival a 911 for performance but exceeds it for comfort and practicality with real back seat and room for two or three sets of golf clubs in trunk. Ive owned a 911, Boxster S and a TT Coupe. The 135i blows them all away.

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  A hoot to drive! - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By Mike - April 15 - 12:46 pm

  The 135 is the perfect size for me. The power is awesome. Was concerned about the iDrive but learning curve is quick. Inside storage is pitiful. No place for even your glasses case. One usable cup holder. Red LED ambient lighting, without turning the dash intensity up to practically full, is not visible. Should have been blue. Premium sound system/HD radio is supurb. Blue tooth and conviencence access great. 6 speed shifts like butter. Cool feature is the brakes hold on a hill for a couple seconds so you dont roll backwards. Paint, fit and finish top notch. One gripe... Offer 18 inch, performance, NON RUN-FLAT tires w/spare. Run-flats are problematic, expensive and wear out quickly.

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  Best BMW ever driven besides the 650i - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By CrisFlip - April 14 - 9:44 pm

  I never thought I would fall in love with the entry level baby bimmer!! This car is quite capable of being considered an entry level M car. Its got more than plenty of power, agility, speed, and superior performance handling. If you want a nicely priced bang for you dollar this is it. Its a definitely in the "gotta have" car list. Although back seat is a bit cramped, but what do you expect on a "premium compact" coupe? Gas is not too bad at 26 highway. Great everyday car and always fun to drive. You have to test drive it and really drive it both normal and hard to appreciate it.

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  A classic BMW - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By Year1DC - April 14 - 2:55 pm

  Took delivery of my jet black 135i coupe the day they went on sale in the US. Truly a great car, both in terms of performance and styling. I chose the automatic with the paddle shifters since I use the car for urban commuting. Its hands-down the best automatic Ive driven - just put it in Sport mode and the car moves like a rocket. It costs the same as a 328 coupe while delivering performance that is several notches above. While theres no other car that exactly compares, of all the other cars I drove the Cayman S feels the most similar - and at $20k more, it makes my $44k loaded 135 seem like an even greater bargain.

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  Just got my 135i - 2008 BMW 1-Series
  By Ruffstik - March 28 - 6:29 pm

  Well I think I just picked up one of the 1st 135is in North America, at least its the only one in Wisconsin! This car just fits like a glove and when you first push the pedal you are completely blown away with the power of those 300 horses. Was looking at the Infiniti G37s and was waiting for this one to come out. Gotta say that Im glad I waited!