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 1 through 10 of 27.00

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  Exactly what I have been looking for! - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By bwschubert - February 20 - 3:05 pm

  I have been searching for a RWD convertible with a manual transmission for some time now and while test driving all the usual suspects in the same price range (new and used) my 128i was the obvious choice. I wouldnt mind a 135 for the significantly increased grunt, but there was no such car available- either new and too expensive or used and too old and out of warranty. Nevertheless the linearity of the naturally aspirated I-6 makes running up to the 7000rpm redline a pleasure, especially with the top down. While true value is debatable (I dont know if I could ever justify the full sticker price of a new one) the build quality, ergonomics and all around driving experience is worth it to me

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  First BMW - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By pleng - June 17 - 8:41 am

  I was looking for a fun car with a convertible top and the 128 was just right. Luckily found a certified 2011 with only 14K miles and got the price break and power train warranty to 100K. A key factor was trunk space since I plan on using the car for trips in my retirement. It will hold a 25 inch roller bag flat and a 22 on its side, and even more in the back seat - great for such a small car I am an engineer and I am impressed with the build quality of this least expensive BMW.

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  Like a 4-seat Miata...Fun Fun Fun - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By socalh2oskier - February 18 - 6:26 pm

  My 2011 128i Convertible has 8,000 miles with nary a problem. Changed the run-flats to Contintental DWS regular tires the first week and it was like driving a completely different car--much better ride. Comfortable seats and just a blast to drive. In some ways better than the 3 series--top down at least you have some useable trunk space with the 128. Almost went for the 135, but Im happy with the power of the 128--engine sometimes lugs a bit taking off, but slap the transmission over to sport mode and it compensates and puts you into the sweet spot of the torque curve and takes care of the issue. Nimble handling. One of the most fun cars Ive ever had.

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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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  First BMW - 2011 BMW 1-Series
  By Mcon18 - July 16 - 2:32 pm

  Have owned the car 2 weeks, no major complaints. It is very quiet with the top up, except for the nice sound of the engine, which sounds even nicer with the top down. I thought the cheap added cup holder would be annoying since the navigation buttons take away one of the real cup holders, but it really isnt bad. There is a pretty big blind spot behind the rear side window, but I guess its just something to get used to. Happy with the gas mileage too, averaging 24 so far. Overall the car is very fun to drive, my only worries are with the run flat tires, and the fact that the top had to be "re- programed" since I kept getting an alert that the "hydraulics overheated".