In its sophomore year in North America after it's 2008 model year introduction, the 2009 BMW 1-Series, (one series) coupe and convertible are light, agile machines that are also the most affordable in the BMW lineup.
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.
Fuel economy for the 1-Series ranges from 17 miles per gallon city to 28 miles per gallon the highway.
A staple 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 2009 BMW 1-Series is $29,400. Choosing the convertible, the more powerful engine, and other options quickly takes the price upwards of $50,000. The 1-Series comes with a 4-year, 50,000-mile basic warranty.
With spirited performance, finely appointed interiors, and an overall design that is trademark BMW, the 1-Series returns BMW to its roots as it takes on the North American compact car market.