In 2008 BMW introduced the 1-Series to the US, an authentic performance coupe that drew inspiration from the iconic BMW 2002 model of some 40 years ago. As perhaps the next BMW legend, the BMW 1-Series Coupe represents the core BMW philosophy of pure performance, compact dimensions, and premium design. By combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the 2012 1-Series Coupe continues to reinvent the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created.
Powerful engines, the rear-wheel drive typical of the brand and inspirational agility make the BMW 1-Series Coupe stand out from the crowd. It possesses characteristics unique in the compact premium vehicle segment.
With these updates, the BMW 1-Series Coupe develops further as one of the most desirable Ultimate Driving Machines® in the business. Two versions are available: the 128i Coupe and the 135i Coupe. Each has been enhanced to improve convenience and comfort for the BMW 1-Series' fourth model year.
Powered by a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline-6 engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, the 128i Coupe features BMW's Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology and aluminum/magnesium construction - core elements of BMW's EfficientDynamics. The 2012 BMW 135i features BMW's newest, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. Equipped with a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and BMW's revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, the engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Referred to internally as the "N55", the engine reaches peak torque at 1,200 rpm and maintains peak torque all the way to 5,000 rpm. With High Precision direct gasoline injectors, optimum performance and fuel efficiency are achieved with even faster engine response across the entire engine speed range. For the 135i Coupe, acceleration from 0-60 mph is accomplished with the standard 6-speed manual transmission in 5.1 seconds.
The 135i can be equipped with BMW's 7-speed Double Clutch Transmission (DCT), as featured on the BMW Z4 Roadster. Equipped with DCT, the 135i Coupe will accomplish the 0-60 mph sprint in a scorching 5.0 seconds. A 6-speed Steptronic automatic remains optional on the 128i. So equipped, the 128i Coupe runs 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds, or 6.1 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual transmission.
Innovative Aerodynamics: Air Curtains
Consistency between form and function is crucial to engineers at BMW who seek perfect balance of various aerodynamic factors in the wind tunnel. As a result, the new Air Curtain is BMW's latest aerodynamic innovation. Introduced first on the BMW 1-Series M Coupe, the Air Curtain will now be a standard feature on the 128i Coupe. The Air Curtain improves air flow around the front wheel arches with the benefit of significantly reduced turbulence. The 128i Coupe can also be equipped with special Aero Wheels to further enhance the performance of the Air Curtain system.
This innovative feature consists of openings in the outer section of the lower front fascia that route high-pressure air through ducts at each front corner. The ducts are approximately 10 x 3 centimeters wide and are designed to channel air to openings at the front of each wheel arch, where it is discharged through a very narrow opening at high speed. The escaping air stream covers the side of the front wheels like a curtain, thereby reducing aerodynamically unfavorable turbulence around the rotating wheels.
Air Curtain has a key role to play in the development of future aerodynamic innovations. An example of the air curtain principle was first presented in the concept study BMW Vision EfficientDynamics at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in 2009, and the developers of the BMW 1-Series M Coupe took on the pioneering task of applying this element to a production vehicle. To do so, they utilized the unique capabilities of the new full-scale "rolling road" Aerolab wind tunnel at the BMW Group's new Aerodynamic Testing Center. Now it has been added to the 128i Coupe.
Handsome looks with sporting intentions
The 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe combines unique, dynamic and unmistakable design elements with a powerful and muscular body. The greenhouse with its characteristic "Hofmeister kink" is moved rearward and offers a particularly nimble look with its long hood. The short overhangs, long wheelbase and large frameless doors sit on a body with a striking shoulder line for a modern interpretation of BMW's characteristic look. On the 135i Coupe, an M Aerodynamic Kit is standard.
The 1-Series boasts aggressive rear end styling. The trunklid has an integrated spoiler chiselled into the rear end of the car to accentuate the short rear section. On the 135i, an additional lip spoiler provides greater downforce on the rear end at high speeds. The individual sections within the L-shaped rear taillights give the vehicle a lower, sportier look. Horizontal elements integrated in the rear light clusters offer a homogeneous lighting effect. When equipped with Adaptive Xenon headlights (standard on 135i), these horizontal elements are powered by light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This light design, as found on other BMW models, makes the BMW 1-Series Coupe stand out at night. Also, the Adaptive Brake Lights, which operate in two stages relative to brake application force, are yet another feature typical of BMW with the benefit of added safety.
The standard Adaptive Xenon headlights (optional on the 128i) complete with integrated Cornering Lights make driving in the dark safer than ever. The daytime running lights function in typical BMW style with two corona rings on each headlight unit enhances the perception of the car under normal and "murky" light conditions.
Luxurious interior appointments with today's technology
The innovative interior design incorporates high-quality and sophisticated trim elements with luxurious upholstery and colour choices. A 60/40 split rear seat is standard. The control console for the entertainment and air conditioning functions is integrated smoothly and harmoniously into the dashboard through its soft radii and flowing surfaces. Added in 2009, a Heated Steering Wheel is included in the optional Cold Weather Package for the 128i Coupe, and is available as a stand-alone option on the 135i Coupe (Cold Weather Package required). BMW's iDrive controller featured in the optional Navigation system is integrated into the centre console, again following BMW's philosophy of good ergonomic design. Galvanized pearl gloss surfaces adorn the interior door handles, the glove compartment handle, the radio's rotary knob, the knobs of the automatic air conditioning system, the iDrive Controller, and the ornamental trim strips featured on the sports steering wheel.
The BMW 1-Series Coupe is available with a choice of two upholstery options - sporty and comfortable Leatherette or rich Boston Leather. Boston Leather upholstery adds further style to the high-quality impression of the interior. For 2012, a new interior trim option is available. All the trim elements may be ordered in Gloss White for a sporty and fresh look. The optional Sport Package includes sports bucket seats with enhanced side support which are available in highly distinctive leatherette materials or Boston leather.
High-tech suspension with Electronic differential
In typical BMW configuration, the BMW 1-Series Coupe transmits power to the rear wheels exclusively. This concept- engine at the front, drive wheels at the rear - guarantees optimum traction, near-perfect weight distribution front-to-rear, excellent directional stability, and predictable handling.
The BMW 1-Series Coupe has a sophisticated suspension system with an aluminum double-pivot front suspension and a five-link fully independent rear suspension in lightweight steel. BMW's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) also includes a Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function that provides electronic intervention to prevent loss of vehicle control, but at a higher threshold before activation. This allows the driver to experience more spirited driving on dry roads and offers more flexibility when driving in more challenging conditions such as in snow. If the driver desires, both DSC and DTC can be disabled entirely. Optional Active Steering - a variable ratio steering system exclusive to BMW - is available only on the 135i Coupe. In addition to its duties as a safety system, the DSC system on the 135i Coupe is designed specifically to enhance performance-oriented driving.
The rear differential on the 1-Series comes from a new generation of final drives optimized for running smoothness and fuel efficiency. Featuring double-helical ball bearings for the first time, the differential runs at an even lower operating temperature reached more quickly than before thanks to the reduction of fluid required in the differential. Electronic rear brake management is always used to simulate a differential lock for stronger acceleration in turns and low-traction conditions.
The front suspension on the BMW 1-Series is also built to a unique standard in its competitive group. The double-pivot spring and strut front suspension with its anti-roll bar, is made largely of aluminum and offers an optimum combination of stiffness and low weight. The stable track control arms and thrust rods, as well as near-perfect wheel positioning, make an important contribution to the car's driving dynamics.
M-inspired design for the M Sport Package
Model year 2009 saw the introduction of a new M Sport Package, available on both models of the BMW 1-Series Coupe. Features of the M Sport Package include an Aero kit for reduced lift at speed (standard on 135i) , an increased top speed limiter, better brake cooling, and enhanced aesthetics while the Sports Suspension offers higher traction and reduced body roll with unique wheels and performance tires. On the 135i Coupe, the Sports Suspension also includes a high-performance brake system incorporating 6-piston fixed calipers on the front and 2-piston calipers at the rear. Additionally, the M Sport Package for both models includes BMW Individual high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, sport seats, BMW Individual anthracite headliner, and M branded trim components including driver footrest, gearshift knob (for manual transmission), and door sills. Finally, LeMans Blue Metallic exterior paint is available exclusively when the M Sport Package is ordered.
High safety standards exceed international requirements
No less than six airbags come standard within the 2011 BMW 1-Series Coupe for optimum protection of the car's occupants. The advanced frontal airbags are activated in stages relative to impact severity while the side airbags integrated into the sides of the front seat backrests reduce the risk of injury at chest and hip levels in side impact situations. HPS (Head Protection System) side curtain airbags fitted in the roof lining protect both the occupants on the front seats and the passengers at the rear. The 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe also comes with crash-optimized seats with active headrests that significantly reduc the risk of neck injury in an impact from the rear.
All seats within the BMW 1-Series Coupe are fitted with three-point inertia-reel seat belts and headrests, with the front seat belts fastened on the frames of the driver's and front passenger's seats, keeping the belt in an optimum position around the occupant's hips regardless of seat height or for-aft seat adjustment. Also, the driver's pedals move back automatically with a predetermined amount of deformation in the event of a frontal collision so that the risk of driver foot injury is reduced. And last but not least, the rear seats come standard with LATCH attachments for child seats.
It's tremendous design makes it a contender for style, performance and comfort. Not to mention the technology behind this car. It surpassed my expectations.
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