BMW 1 Series Coupe (2008 - )  

Good looking sporty alternative to the standard 1 Series, super quick 135i, strong and efficient diesels.

Tight in the back for taller passengers.

Introduction

Latest Update 9-5-2012: Seems to be a continued problem with 2nd generation N55 135i/335i models. Engine warning light coming on, car breaking down. Engine running rough and going into limp mode. Diagnostic told the techs to replace a fuel injection valve. Unfortunately, the same problem exists so they're back to troubleshooting with BMW NA with no end in sight. ECU reprogramming to fix the problem reduces low down torque and engine response.

Introduction (from BMW 135i road test):

How does 306PS in a 4-seat coupe the size of a Golf grab you?

And not any old 306PS engine, but ‘engine of the year': BMW's sensational twin-turbo 3.0 litre straight six that's both benignly tractable and very, very fast.

Over the last year BMW has been turning its slow selling sow's ear of a 1-Series into something of a silk purse. First we saw the three-door hatchback version with it's Efficient Dynamics 118 diesel that has since been developed to limbo under the 120g/m CO2 limit that gets it into London for nothing from next February and cuts the annual tax bill to £35.

Next: What's Good »

Last updated 9 May 2012
More at the BMW website  

Related News & Road Tests

Cars For Sale

New Cars Used Cars

Best monthly deals on new cars

Also Consider

  • Volkswagen Scirocco 2008
    Good looks. Good performance from chain cam 2.0 TSI engine. Also available with frugal TDI diesel. Very enjoyable and rewarding to drive. Can happily accommodate four.
  • Audi A7 Sportback 2011
    Sleek, good looking Jaguar XF competitor with Audi cachet. Sub 140g/km CO2 diesel engine good for company car BIK tax.
  • Audi A3 2008
    Good choice of engines. Some petrol engines now chain cam. Comfortable and well built interior. cheap to run 1.6 TDI. Feels very refined especially on the motorway.
  • BMW 1 Series 2011
    Second generation 1 Series, more efficient engines, 116d Efficient Dynamics averages a claimed 74.3 mpg and emits 99g/km.

Honest John's Car Buying Advice

Get the low-down on how to buy and sell cars the hassle-free way

Sign up for Honest John's Email Newsletter

Road Tests • Buying Tips • Deals