2009 BMW 1-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.55/5 Average
37 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Because the BMW 1 Series was all new for last year, not much changes for 2009. A heated steering wheel now comes with the cold-weather package, optional active steering is no longer available on 128i models and the optional navigation system now comes with BMW's fourth-generation iDrive.

Pros:
Cons:
  • Options can quickly drive up price, tiny backseats, some interior elements not quite up to usual BMW standard.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 37.00
  • Great styling!! - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    Being about 63 and weighing in at about 265, there arent many performance cars that can comfortably seat someone who is big. HOWEVER, this car offered me more head room than my traded in almost new Americam made truck!My 2 adult sons osed to call my trade in lots of very nasty names and finally I decided to buy my dream car before I expire. The standard package is impressive on the 09s and the car has handled very well. I get 24 mpg on normal driving, which is not too bad.The sunroof is enormous and one almost feels like he is riding in a convertable. A blast to drive, the 128i is a terrific entry level car.

  • My favorite car - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    This is my third BMW, my first was a 320i in college. My last car was a 2001 325CI. I found the 325 the antithesis of the 320, it was bloated. I was hoping that this car would be a modern 320. Its not, its still too heavy. But honestly with this engine, I could care less. I didnt think that I "needed" a 135, but a got a great deal on one and took it. I still dont need this much power but it is a blast to have. The handling blows everything I have ever driven away, a lot of my friends have M3s and honestly I think this handles better and it rides way way better. The iPod, Bluetooth, all the goodies are well designed and work perfectly. Im waiting for a disappointment but havent found it yet.

  • 135 vs a4 cabriolet - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    I had a 2002 Audi TT roadster, my wife was concerned over its size, I bought a 2005 Audi A4 cabriolet 3.0 FWD sport package and CVT trans. It was a good cruiser but too polite, it always felt heavy. I just bought a 2009 BMW 135i convertible, Sport package premium package with 6 spd. I love this car. I think the criticism of the 1 series stems from the base models some can look a bit plain. In sport trim they are beautiful. A friend has a 2010 boxter S and could not walk away from me. I was looking for a BMW 335 and after several test drive I went for the 135 It answers all I wanted 300 hp plus 4 seats when i need it, and you dont see it on every corner. FABULOUS!

  • The Perfect Size - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    I eagerly awaited the debut of the 1 series here in the states after having read much about the European model. After test driving the 1, it was clear that it would become my new driver. Beautiful throaty exhaust note, rock solid build quality and the legendary BMW straight six makes it a dream drive! I much prefer the size of the 1 series over that of the 3, and to me, it is the spiritual successor to the original 2002.

  • A Real Enthusiast car - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    In the past I owned four BMW e46 M3s and they were all exhilarating to drive with awesome performance. The 135i I now own is as fun to drive as the e46 M3 beating it out just slightly from a performance standpoint, which says a lot about the 135i. Its a smaller car than I usually own, but its nimble and sticks to the road like glue. The large brakes are definitely needed to stop this beast when its hauling down the highway, and the exhaust growl when driving in Sport Mode is an aural pleasure. Fuel economy is okay, just about the same on the e46 M3, but my wifes 335i coupe gets a lot more MPG.

  • BMW 135i - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    Options m sport package, leather, upgraded stereo, cold weather, automatic transmission, bluetooth, I initially wanted one with a manual transmission and an ipod only but it was nearly impossible to find one. Ive driven it for 3 months and it has been fantastic. The engine is amazing, the suspension wonderful, and the handling razor sharp. my biggest complaints ... I initially thought it was ugly... but it grew on me... road nice can be loud. I worry about BMW reliability. a few squeaks and rattles...

  • Almost a great car - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    Got my 135 coupe with 10k miles on it. Love the way the car drives and handles. Excellent manual transmission but this has been a heartbreak car. Reliability has been poor. Within three months, fuel pump went out then the tail light went out. Dealer failed to fix it the first time. Lots of creaks and rattles when road isnt perfectly paved. Handles well but there is more body roll than I expected. Also, heater puts out cool air from the vents except on highest setting.

  • Feat of eng. & a work of art - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    Simply, I love this car. The 128i has plenty of power and the handling is second to none. Shifting is incredibly smooth and you can stop on a dime. Theres nothing I would change about this car performance-wise. The 1 series exterior look may not be everyones cup of tea, but I think it is beautiful. And I think BMWs interiors are the best in the business. Plus, theres a million 3 series on the road, why not have something unique? I gave slightly lower marks on the comfort only due to the small backseat. I never have anyone in the backseat so it didnt make a difference to me, but for anyone who needs to drive others should take this into consideration.

  • Powerfull, small but big enough - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    Made a switch from Audi because we wanted a small coupe. We have a TT and it is wonderful but does not have usable back seat. We got the M package of the 135i. This car has a very smooth powerful engine. Turbo lag is hardly noticeable. Took it on a 1100 mile trip and found it to be a very nice drive. Quiet, comfortable seats, small and maneuverable. It is a great car. Run flat tires have not been a problem so far with only 4000 mi. I would buy again only I would not buy jet black paint. It shows everything and scratches easily.

  • Great Little Car - 2009 BMW 1-Series
    By -

    First BMW I owned. Was hesitant at first because of reliability issues but so far have had no problems. Gas mileage in the city is poor (avg. about 15 mpg), but gas mileage on the highway is great (avg. 31 mpg). I have the sports package with 18 inch wheels so the handling is fantastic. The car is so fun to drive and I love the small size of the car. Why are new cars so large these days? Used to own a TSX (good car too) but this car is so much more fun. Also, The RFT tires dont really bother me at all. Overall, best car I have owned.

BMW 1-Series Reviews By Year:
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