couper2

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/01/b...fficial-today/

The leak-riddled embargo on BMW new entry-level 1-Series coupe finally lifts today. By now, you've already seen many of the photos, a video or two, and read the official press releases. To recap the basics, here's what's in store for the US model:
On sale Spring 2008
USA gets 2 cars: 128i and 135i
128i: 3.0L I6 w/ 230 hp and 200lb-ft
135i: 3.0L twin-turbo I6 w/ 300 hp and 300 lb-ft
135i mfr.performance stats: 0-62 in 5.3 sec, 155 mph top speed
The rest of the rundown can be found in the BMW press release after the jump. So, is this the modern 2002 BMW would certainly like it to be? Weigh in with your comments. Whatever you want to call it, it looks like it's going to be a fun little car. Hopefully, the pricing's in line with its intent. If only we were getting that hot 2.0L diesel, too...

RESS RELEASE:
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 *****, the ***** 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.

trialsrider

they would finally release this after i buy two xb2's... now i gotta save again...

rrussello

Looks like a very nice entry level BMW. I may have to test drive one in a few years when I am back in the market for a new car. Any news on the price? I still don't like the **** on the center console to control everything on the navi display.

For those of you who are interested here are some more images

Hat_Trick_Hokie

iTrader: (1)

I'm thinking a car that size with the twin turbo engine out of the 335i is going to be a blast.

Celt

I have been a fan of the Euro 1 series for a while. The M sport 1( the top of the line in Britain) is marketed as a competitor for the R32 golf and the S3 Audi.

The Five door is a little ugly though and the three door is much nicer.

I LOVE THE US COUPE I'm seriously thinking about just putting a deposit down now for the 135i It will be a 3/4 size M3!!!!!!!!
Evo magazine has the 3 door in the July issue with the Audi S3, Alfa Romeo Brera and the Mazda MPS 3 ( Mazdaspeed 3 here).

The M sport has the NA in-line 6 developing 261 BHP 232lb/ft of torque with a test time 0-60 in 6.1, 0-100 in 15.3 and the quarter mile in 14.5 @ 97mhp. Max speed is ( suprise suprise 155mph)

There is a bunch of aftermarket stuff already available in Europe like Tubi Style exhausts,
Lip kits, Intakes and the like.

Bring on spring 2008 coz I AM IN LOVE

Celt

Pricing is supposed to position it between the Mini Cooper S and the 3 series.

the Cooper S starts at $22,000 and the 328i starts at $32,000 so one could assume the 128i will be $27,000 or so

$3000 down and financed over 60 months would be around $475 per month

Did I mention that I cant wait til SPRING 08

couper2

I've been wait'n for years for a modern 2002 to come here to the states.
Figures that now that one's come'n I'm dead *** broke.
This is one mighty fine car. Has all the important check boxes filled: rear wheel drive, 200+ hp, sports sedan good looks, and most importantly relitively cheap.
The only thing wrong is that the sides look a little like the waddles between a fat dog's legs. :D

chrisP

wowee wow!

PikesPeak

Make sure you sign up for further info.

"Thank you, kevin. It’s official. You are now among the fortunate who will play a part in Year One of the 1. We will contact you when more information on the vehicle, events, and test-drive opportunities become available."

This car is everything we are trying to do to our tCs. RWD/300HP/6SPD! Damn!

I may have to go back to Germany and pick it up from the factory.

http://www.bmwusa.com/bmwexperience/...livery/savings

CarlStooop

that is a beautiful car...

Celt

HEY SCION!!!!! Listen up..... ahem YOU ARE ABOUT TO LOSE A BUNCH OF US UNLESS THE NEW tC IS THE SAME/BETTER/ OR REALLY DAMN CLOSE TO THIS CAR!!!! that is all thank you

hotbox05

bmw reliability is much worse than toyota/scion... not to mention service costs.


me being a bmw fanatic i'd rock one. it looks like z4 meets 3series.


the m1 and z1 should be good.

captainlaziness

^^ BMW pays for the first three years of service (fluid changes, brake pads/rotors, ect.) right?

hotbox05

on standard ones on the new cheap 1 series it'll be a profit killer.


i'd buy an m1 or z1 but not a regular sub 300 hp one.

XxTamTxX

I have to get this. I will get this. How do you sign up for more info?

xdorkx

Holy schnikies this is nice! 2008 eh? 475 a month with 3k down, I could afford that....hmmmmmmm, lol, i'm normally a fan of bimmers in darker colors, but that orange looks SEXAY

hotbox05

i love the dark green bmw uses with their nice cinnamon leather interior. YUM

SwtC44

I WANT ONE!!! 300hp rwd! damn, looks like i might be trading in the tc in the future!

hotbox05

just like all the tc to wrx guys do you'll probably crash it.

the last thing bmw needs is a car that is an insurance nightmare. I hope they screen their buyers and let no immature fast fast fast ricer kids get them.

i do not want to see 1 series after 1 series get rolled because of inexperienced drivers behind the wheel of a well powered non fwd car.


no offense , you may actually know how to drive but unless you've had track day after track day or don't want a 300 hp rocket of a bmw to actually drive fast in then I apologize.

but I'm guessin your fwd portly tc is too slow for you and it can't handle cause it's fwd.

truth be told it's a good starting point and keep it longer than you want to .



it's like a noob going and saying yeah I want an r1 , or gsxr 1000 , or zx10r , without ever doing more than riding say a 50 .


DEATH. only diff is in a car you have a cage so when you crash you will probably live versus when on a bike you crash and you probably die.

Kurenai

I actually agree with this