Newly arrived in North America after it's unveiling at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the 2008 BMW 1-Series, (one series) coupes and convertibles are light, agile machines that are truly in a league of their own. Available in the 128i and 135i setups, the 1-Series offers a raft of luxury appointments, tech-savvy equipment, and performance oriented engine and drive-train options.
Under the hood of the 128i is a 230 horsepower 3-liter inline-6 while the 135i comes equipped with a beefier 300 horsepower twin-turbo '6 of the same displacement. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.
EPA Mileage estimates range from 18 miles per gallon city to a respectable 28 on the highway.
A uniquely BMW option is the iDrive controller with navigation screen. This system incorporates everything from Bluetooth hands free calling to real time traffic updates, displayed on the dash-mounted LCD screen.
Base MSRP for the 2008 BMW 1-Series is $28,600. Choosing the convertible, the more powerful engine, and other options quickly takes the price upwards of $40,000. The 1-Series comes with a 4-year, 50,000-mile power train warranty
With spirited performance, finely appointed interiors, and an overall design that is trademark BMW, the 2008 BMW 1-Series promises to be a big success in North America.