Overview & Reviews

The 2011 BMW 135i coupe and convertible get a new turbocharged inline-6. Its rated power output is the same as before, but BMW claims improved fuel efficiency and a more immediate torque response. The other notable change this year is the 135i's optional automatic transmission, which is now BMW's seven-speed, dual-clutch automated manual known as DCT.

• Nimble handling
• Solid construction, refined performance
• Convertible available.
• Powerful, fuel-efficient engines

• Cramped backseat, interior materials, less-than-svelte styling.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 27.00

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  So connected - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By cvandenhaute - February 2 - 2:29 pm

  I was on the market for a RWD coupe with at least a small back seat. My benchmark has always been a Miata and the 128i is the most fun car I could find giving me the same real world pleasure as my former 2007 Miata (but with a back seat). I like the smoothness and the character of the 6 in line and the perfect balance of the car. Everything works together : steering is pefect, shifter is smooth and direct with a nice mechanical feel, clutch is light and precise. Despite its true sport car handling, the 128i is still very comfortable for my commute and longer journeys. Even the trunk is very usable. I cross shopped it with more powerful car but this was the most fun to drive.

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  Perfect daily commuter - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By bltwydriver - January 26 - 5:49 pm

  Traded in a Volvo S60R chipped to about 340hp. Ive been driving the 128i for six months and dont miss the power. This car is a pleasure to drive in all situations. I needed a car that would keep me sane during rush hour traffic, but could still maneuver when given the opportunity. I hesitated in considering the entry level coupe from BMW, but was pleasantly surprised to see many features handed down from the legendary big brothers. BMW sedans have always been the benchmark for driving enthusiasts and the Germans finally nailed the media/technology interface with i-Drive - awesome.

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  Basic BMW - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By finman - December 30 - 11:27 pm

  A bit of a step back (in a good way) from increasing bloat and luxury. Perfectly matched power to size/weight built seemingly in the true "old-spirit" of the M-versions of BMW. Never short on power and torque, nice exhaust growl, smooth manual transmission, powerful linear brakes, tight, firm suspension with incredible balance. I-drive system, entertainment/phone, etc is excellent, easy to use and diminishes distractions while driving. Front seats are very comfortable for 6ft plus, rear seats are perfect for smaller children when used without a booster, otherwise relatively useless. Trunk is adequate. Incredibly fun to drive. 23 mpg overall.

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  128i vs 135i - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By goldmund52 - December 20 - 7:00 pm

  If you’re torn between the 128i versus 135i, here is my opinion. Over the years I’ve most enjoyed driving smaller cars with sporty suspensions and revvy engines with well-mated manual transmissions--- Volkswagen Rabbit, Acura Integra, Toyota MR2. Then in the early 90’s I bought a Nissan 300ZX twin turbo. I learned two things from that car. One, a car that is overpowered for daily driving is not that much fun. Two, turbo lag always feels unnatural. The 128i is a fast car, more that powerful enough for fun street and mountain road driving, the gear ratios are fabulous and the throttle response is wonderful. Unless 0-60 is your first priority the 128i is the better sports car.

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  Think hard before you buy - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By Oklahoma BMW Owner - December 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 1 series a few months ago. Very unhappy with Jackie Cooper BMW in Edmond OK. Poor service after the sale. It is like they forget you exist. Also financed through BMW Financial and they have a horrible website. Being unhappy with the car I considered trading and it lost $10,000 in a few months. It is still like new and a 2011 model and still lost $10,000. CRAZY! I will never buy another BMW.

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  European Delivery - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By roywadams - November 6 - 2:00 am

  Took delivery in Munich. Spent a month driving around Germany, Austria, N. Italy and S. France. This car was made for this kind of driving it couldnt have been more fun. If it were any bigger, I would have been even more terrified driving through Italy. The top is so easy to raise and lower we drove with it down every day we used the car. Even with the small engine, it didnt lack for pickup in the mountains. The 6 speed manual transmission was perfect. Seldom needed the brakes, except on the steepest downhills. Got admiring glances from most everyone. Now, if it is just half as good as the 1994 325 with 213,000 miles it replaced...

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  Great Car for the Driving Enthusiast! - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By GUNDY70 - November 2 - 2:00 am

  I test drove the 128i coupe about a month and a half ago and I loved it from the moment I took my place behind the wheel and could not resist the temptation that I ordered one, which arrived 3 days ago. Essentially, this vehicle is a 328i with less weight, 50/50 balance, and a new frame. From a drivers perspective the car is amazing - responsive steering, grippy brakes and handling, and a luxurious. I have the M sports package which gives it better handling and acceleration. Truly UDMachine!

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  This is my 2nd 128i convertible - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By OM76RPH - October 17 - 2:00 am

  There is no other vehicle with this combination of fun and convenience. I previously had two Z4s and loved them but this car provides the fun with a back seat and room for two sets of golf clubs in the trunk with the top down. For the money there is no rival. A comparable Audi is $10,000 more and you still cannot get a 6 cylinder. One negative is the satellite radio. There is a software problem that causes problems with acquiring stations. Two years and still not fixed. Shame on you BMW.

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  Great so far - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By syd53 - October 13 - 2:00 am

  After 12 years driving a Beetle, tried a Z4 on dealer lot. Loved it but could not see driving it in winter. Ordered a 128i which has same engine and manual transmission, just a few less hp, and all of the convenience features I liked on the Z4. Of course it was also a lot less money. It is just as much fun to drive, though not as pretty.

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  Too much fun - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By twhflorida - September 11 - 2:00 am

  Looked at an m3 and Audi S5 and this little beast is the ticket. ran at sebring racetrack with my buddies who had an 911 and nissan gtr and totally held my own. the m sport package is great.