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2011 BMW 1-Series - Review

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Bottom Line
Power, style, and attainable luxury are all part of the 2011 1-Series' repertoire, though the appearance and BMW's fourth-gen iDrive may not be everyone's cup of tea. Read more »
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projects an odd, almost ungainly proportion from some angles

Road & Track: »

out of tune with the rest of BMW's very sleek-looking lineup

Cars.com »

nearly identical to the 3-Series

Popular Mechanics: »

M Division's optional aerodynamic kit comes as standard equipment on the 135i, giving the coupe sculpted flanks, a chiseled nose for improved engine and brake cooling, and a trunk lid spoiler.

Motor Trend »

the styling language of the new 1-Series coupe is more attractive in person than the press shots...would indicate

Autoblog »
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The Basics:

The 2011 BMW 1-Series doesn't see many changes for the new model year, but the few it does get are significant, making the 1-Series a technological standout in the entry-level luxury sports car market. Appearance is largely unaltered for 2011, with the love-it-or-leave-it styling a deciding factor for some.

The 1-Series gets a new seven-speed dual-cloth transmission (DCT) that replaces the automatic, available only on the 135i. The high-tech transmission delivers silky-smooth shifts in automatic mode and precise, rev-matched shifts in manual mode.

The range-topping 135i's engine is also updated for 2011, replacing the previous twin-turbo inline six-cylinder with a 300-horsepower twin-scroll, single-turbo version. Available in naturally aspirated form as well in the 128i model, both engine options can be slotted into either coupe or convertible body styles.

A wide range of features and options can be had for materials, appearance, and equipment. The tech experience revolves around the fourth-generation iDrive system, which can still be complex to operate, though it's much improved over earlier generations.

The base price of the 2011 1-Series, which is on sale now, stays stable, at $30,025 for the 128i and $36,925 for the 135i. All 1-Series models are rear-wheel drive. Competitive cars include the Porsche Boxster and Cayman, the Audi A3, and the Lexus IS and IS C.

Likes:

  • Acceleration (135i)
  • Good handling
  • Well-made interior
  • Attractive exterior
  • Affordable for a luxury coupe

Dislikes:

  • A bit on the heavy side
  • Almost no room in the backseat
  • Not the most comfortable up front
  • Pricey for its size
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