Woodcliff Lake, NJ - June 30, 2007 – Forty years after setting America’s heart racing with the iconic 2002 BMW announced that it will introduce a modern version of a small performance coupe in 2008.
The BMW 1 Series Coupe is a sporty rear-wheel-drive vehicle with agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four that will fill the niche vacated by the legendary BMW 2002.
Versions of this small, family friendly luxury car have been produced for the European market since 2004 where they compete against the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf. But unlike its rivals the 1 Series features rear-wheel drive and a longitudinally-mounted engine. It was a hit right out of the gate. In 2005, the first full year of production, BMW sold 149,493 1 Series making it the car maker’s third best selling car line, right behind the 3 and 5 Series. It launched as a five-door hatchback and then in 2007 as a 3-door “Sport” hatchback. The newest member of the lineup is the one slated for the US – the Coupe. It's rumored that there is a convertible in the works but mums the word on a drop top showing up here.
The Coupe's US introduction is set for the spring of 2008, and it will be available in two versions; the 128i and the 135i. A fuel efficient 2.0 liter diesel is available in Europe. When asked if the 1 Series in North America will eventually have this option, a company spokesman said, "BMW has announced that it will bring 50-State diesel powered vehicles to the US beginning in calendar year 2008. Specific models have not been announced."
The 128i Coupe will be powered by a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline 6-cyinder engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque and the 135i Coupe will features BMW’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft of torque.
The 3.0 liter’s direct piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooling are designed for optimum performance and economy with no loss in engine response. This engine will give the 135i Coupe, acceleration from 0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds. But don’t dream about setting records at Bonneville, top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Both engines feature on-demand engine coolant pumps that improve fuel economy. The European version of the 1 Series features a Regenerative Braking system that is a form of mild hybrid that improves fuel economy. Unfortunately, this won't be an option. We've been told that fuel economy in Europe has been about 9.2 liters per 100 kilometers or roughly 30.7 MPG imperial gallons (for all of you Canadians) and 25.5 MPG US.
In 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 couples BMWs dynamic roadability with the brands signature design elements that gives the smaller car a powerful and muscular look. The greenhouse is moved toward the rear to enhance the classic but nimble look with its long hood. The short overhangs, long wheelbase and large frameless doors sit on a body with a distinctive shoulder line that creates an up to date take on BMW’s signature look. An M Aerodynamic Kit is standard on the 135i Coupe,
It will be some comfort for those you leave in the dust to know that the 1 Series has pleasantly aggressive rear end styling. The trunk lid has an integrated spoiler chiseled into the rear end of the car that accentuats the short rear. 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. Standard Adaptive Xenon headlights (optional on the 128i) complete with integrated Cornering Lights are there to make driving in the dark safer.
The interior design blends high-quality and sophisticated trim pieces with luxurious upholstery and an array of color choices. Although some have faulted the vehicle for having a somewhat spartan interior it appears purposeful. A 60/40 split rear seat is standard. Galvanized pearl gloss surfaces are found on 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 optional Sport Package includes sports buckets seats with enhanced side support and are finished in highly distinctive leatherette materials or Boston leather.
Of course there are a wide choice of audio and communication features including SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio, Premium Sound system and Bluetooth interface. Simple and straightforward connection of an MP3 player is handled with a standard Auxiliary input jack, and a USB port for direct control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player is available as an option.
Pricing hasn't been announced.
You can expect that these cars will have the sophisticated suspension and handling of their stablemates that will provide quick response, exceptional brake management, strong acceleration in turns and many years of happy motoring.
For More Information about BMW Group products:
www.bmwgroupna.com
www.bmwusa.com
www.bmwmotorradusa.com
www.miniusa.com
www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com
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