Official Pic of 135i Coupe

[bostonspider]

THE NEW BMW 1 SERIES COUPE
BMW's 128i and 135i Coupes Come to America in 2008

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - June 30, 2007, 6PM EDT... BMW will introduce a modern and authentic performance coupe that draws inspiration from its iconic 2002 models of some 40 years ago. The next BMW legend, the 1 Series Coupe, represents the core BMW philosophies of pure performance and premium design. By combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the 1 Series Coupe will reinvent the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created.

On sale in the spring of 2008, the 1 Series Coupe will be available in two versions; the 128i and the 135i. Powered by a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline 6-cyinder engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, the 128i Coupe will feature Valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminum/magnesium contruction-core elements of BMW's EfficientDynamics. The powerful 135i Coupe features BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft of torque from as low as 1,400 rpm. With its direct piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooling, optimum performance and economy is achieved with no loss in engine response. For the 135i Coupe, acceleration from 0-62 mph is accomplished in 5.3 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Both engines feature on-demand engine coolant pumps that improve fuel economy and reduce parasitic losses for increased output.

Handsome looks with sporting intentions

The new 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 lights integrated in the rear light clusters offer a homogeneous lighting effect with the help of 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 Brakelights operating in two stages in relation to brake application force are yet another feature typical of BMW, with the additional benefit of extra safety on the road.

The standard Adaptive Xenon headlights (optional on the 128i) complete with integrated Cornering Lights make driving in the dark safer than ever. The daytime headlight 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 color 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. The controller featured in the iDrive system with the optional Navigation system is integrated in the center console, again following BMW's characteristic philosophy. Galvanized pearl gloss surfaces adorn the interior door handles, the glove compartment handle, the radio's rotary knobs, 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. And as a practical feature, map pockets are integrated in the lower part of the doors. The optional Sport Package includes sports buckets seats with enhanced side support and are finished in highly distinctive leatherette materials or Boston leather.

Enhanced iDrive and integration of an external MP3 player

BMW's iDrive is included with the optional navigation system. It enables the driver to control all secondary and comfort functions such as communication, air conditioning, entertainment and navigation functions easily and conveniently.

This latest version of iDrive is equipped with six Programmable Memory Keys that allow the driver to program functions that are used particularly often such as navigation destinations, radio stations or specific telephone numbers. Touch-sensative sensors on these buttons preview the function on the iDrive screen before the button is depressed. This allows the driver to choose the stored function safely and conveniently, keeping his or her eyes on the road in the process.

A wide choice of audio and communication are also available, never before seen in the compact performance market. These features include SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio, Premium Sound system and Bluetooth interface. For simple and straightforward connection of an MP3 player, an Auxiliary input jack is standard, and a USB port for direct control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player is available as an option.

High-tech suspension with newly-developed differential

In typical BMW style, the new BMW 1 Series Coupe transmits the power of the engine to the rear wheels. This design concept and configuration – engine at the front, drive wheels at the rear – guarantees optimum traction, good weight distribution front-to-rear, excellent directional stability, and predictable handling.

The new 1 Series Coupe has a sophisticated suspension system with an aluminium 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 the snow. If the driver desires, both DSC and DTC can be disabled entirely. Active Steering, a variable ratio steering system exclusive to BMW, is available as an option. The DSC system on the 135i Coupe is designed specifically for performance-oriented driving. For instance, the accelerator pedal has a quicker response rate and electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a differential lock for stronger acceleration in turns.

The rear differential on the 1 Series comes from a new generation of final drives optimized for running smoothness. 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.

The front suspension on the BMW 1 Series is also built to a standard quite unique to its competitive group. The double-pivot spring and strut front suspension with its anti-roll bar, is made largely of aluminium and offers an optimum combination of stiffness and low weight. The very stable track control arms and thrust rods, as well as exact wheel guidance, make an important contribution to the car's driving dynamics.

High safety standards exceed international requirements

No less than six airbags come standard within the new BMW 1 Series Coupe for optimum protection of the car's occupants. The advanced frontal airbags are activated in stages in relation 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 new BMW 1 Series Coupe also comes with crash-optimized seats with specially padded headrests and backrests significantly reducing the risk of injury in an impact from the rear.

All seats within the 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.

M-inspired performance for the 135i Coupe

The 135i Coupe offers more performance and a striking look thanks to M-inspired components. Features include an Aero kit for additional downforce at speed, better brake cooling and enhanced aesthetics while the Sports Suspension offers higher traction and reduced body roll with 18-inch wheels and performance tires. The Sports Suspension also includes with a high-performance brake system incorporating six-piston fixed calipers on the front and two-piston fixed calipers at the rear.

Photo Gallery



Additional High-Resolution Images @ Autoblog

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I think it could be a cool little car. Definitely something for Pontiac to shoot for with the Alpha platform...

[Ravenfreak13]

Im sick of these things. Is BMW going to start going negatve series? And they all look too much alike or the cheaper the model you get, the more outdated design you see. Thats what I dont like about BMW.

[Intrepidation]

Suddenly the 1 series is no longer hideous...it looks much better as a coupe than a hatch.

Edited June 27, 2007 by Dodgefan

[Delta Force79]

[DetroitNut90]

I like it...it reminds me of a baby E92.

[aaaantoine]

It doesn't look any smaller than a 3-series. Maybe if they were parked side-by-side you could tell the difference.

[ocnblu]

I agree with everything bostonspider said. This is the size RWD car Pontiac needs toward the bottom of the lineup, priced just a tick above the Solstice.

[Nick]

Damn...I bet it hauls ass. With what the tuners have come up for the N54 already I'm really interested to see where this car is taken. Smaller than a 3er with the N54 that has just gobs of potential. I wouldn't be surprised to see tuners make this into an M3 eater.

[Cory Wolfe]

When I first saw renderings, I didn't think I would like it. I must say, though, now that I've seen these actual pictures of it... I like it.

[pow]

Nice... reminds me of the original 2002.

[Flybrian]

Nice... reminds me of the original 2002.

[bostonspider]

Lot's more pictures....

[ZL-1]

the rear end is kinda weird, but with that engine, who cares?!

[LosAngeles]

Is the 3er THAT much bigger that they really need this?

[Nick]

Is the 3er THAT much bigger that they really need this?

In Europe, where small cars are sometimes a necessity, the 1 series I'm sure opens up a number of buyers who need or want a car smaller than the 3. The 3er has been growing anyway. It isn't the small car it used to be from back in the late 70's and 80's...Hell, even the e46 was noticeably smaller than the e90/92. I'd even venture to say the 1-series is similar in size to an e36 3 series...that might be pushing it though.

[pow]

It's the relatively upright and airy greenhouse, the lowish rear deck... and plus it's a lot like the 2002 in spirit, too.

[Sixty8panther]

The 2002 was cooler.

[sciguy_0504]

The rear end does look somewhat weird...I think it's the taillights...but it does look pretty good for a small BMW.

[Nick]

The 2002 was cooler.

Much cooler.

Man I'd love to get an 02 and fix it up.

[thegriffon]

Lot's more pictures....

Screenshots from a video, the only thing BMW has actually released to media so far. Many sites have taken the BMW UK teaser as carte blanche for releasing their advance info ahead of schedule, which seems to have annoyed BMW no end. In response they've (unusually) released advance info (but no photos) on the German media site, along with a repeated demand "Please note unconditional: EMBARGO Sunday, 01.07.2007, 00:00 h CEST!"

[VenSeattle]

I actually like it.

[BigPontiac]

It appears to look a lot better in the video.

Watch the video

[Intrepidation]

Look ma, no bangle butt!

It looks really good, even the interior...the only thing I don't care for is the busy lines on the lower body...I don't like how they swoop upward the way they do...and how there's 2 of them...1 would be fine

[CSpec]

Looks great! The only thing I don't like is the slightly gloopy front end...

[Robert Hall]

I like it...I wonder what the US price range is going to be? Starting under $30k?

[ZL-1]

After seeing the high-res pictures of the rear end my opinion has changed. I am liking this thing. Will there be a wagon too?

[toesuf94]

If the Zeta Camaro doesn't show up soon, I may have to buy one of these!

[thegriffon]

After seeing the high-res pictures of the rear end my opinion has changed. I am liking this thing. Will there be a wagon too?

No.

[ZL-1]

No.

So the 1-Series family will have 4 variants: 3-door, 5-door, coupe and convertible.

[jbartley]

it's kinda neat looking, in fact i think it's better proportioned, especially in the rear, than the new 3-series coupe.

but the interior is gross. it doesn't flow, it looks cheap, and they couldn't have put a little more metal on the dash?

after loving the new CTS dash, anything that isn't symmetrical really, really bothers me.

Edited July 2, 2007 by jbartley

[MyerShift]

Back end doesn't go with the front, almost as though from two different cars. I dislike the sagging "cut" lines of the doors and side panels and the weird tail lamps and trunk lid.

BMW makes technically ugly cars.

[ToniCipriani]

Square it off a bit and you'll have the modern day E30 3-Series. Thank goodness the iDrive is optional.

If they come up with a club sport package with no stupid "toys" they put in the new ones, I'd be interested. Just make sure the engine bay will fit a small block.

[ponchoman49]

It reminds me of a tired 5 year old design.

[The O.C.]

Damn...I bet it hauls ass. With what the tuners have come up for the N54 already I'm really interested to see where this car is taken. Smaller than a 3er with the N54 that has just gobs of potential. I wouldn't be surprised to see tuners make this into an M3 eater.

I think this car is absolutely ADORABLE.....! Who wouldn't want a (very?) small and nimble coupe with a premium, sporty feel....AND a 300hp twin-turbo I6...?

It'll probably be more expensive.....but this thing could put some serious hurt on the MINI.....ironically.....

Funny....where the Benz C-Class coupe (hatchback) seemed cheap relative to the sedan, this smaller BMW actually retains alot of premium look and design features (to my eyes) of it's bigger brothers.

I even like the look of the interior better than the 3-series.......

[Flybrian]

I think this car is absolutely ADORABLE.....! Who wouldn't want a (very?) small and nimble coupe with a premium, sporty feel....AND a 300hp twin-turbo I6...?

Can I also have one that isn't...adorable?

[Robert Hall]

it's kinda neat looking, in fact i think it's better proportioned, especially in the rear, than the new 3-series coupe.

but the interior is gross. it doesn't flow, it looks cheap, and they couldn't have put a little more metal on the dash?

after loving the new CTS dash, anything that isn't symmetrical really, really bothers me.

I like asymmetry... symmetrical dashes have been way overdone in the last decade, IMHO...my favorite BMW interiors (E36,E39,E46) have all been asymmetrical...

[Cory Wolfe]

I, too, like asymmetrical dashes. All dashes are asymmetrical anyways... You know.. Both sides don't have steering wheels and gauge clusters, do they?

[Robert Hall]

I, too, like asymmetrical dashes. All dashes are asymmetrical anyways... You know.. Both sides don't have steering wheels and gauge clusters, do they?

True... 'symmetrical' and 'asymmetrical' are probably the wrong words here...but some dashes are virtually identical on the left and right side, except that the left has the wheel and IP and the right has a glove box and airbag with the center stack in the middle...i.e. designed for LHD and RHD, while other designs (like past BMWs) are distinctly different from one side to the other..

Edited July 4, 2007 by moltar

[Ravenfreak13]

snoozfest.

[thegriffon]

So the 1-Series family will have 4 variants: 3-door, 5-door, coupe and convertible.

possibly one more.