Autoblog

Detroit Preview: BMW Concept ActiveE set to amp up 1 Series

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Coupe, BMW, Electric

BMW Concept ActiveE - Click above for high-res image gallery

Six months into its Mini E field test program, BMW is getting ready for phase two of its electric vehicle development. At the Detroit Auto Show next month, the Bavarian automaker will introduce its Concept ActiveE which brings electric drive to the Roundel. This time, instead of the diminutive Mini, these new teaser images suggest that a 1 Series coupe is set to go the plug-in route.

With the Mini E, BMW rushed to get the cars out into the field, recruiting AC Propulsion to produce the powertrains and battery packs comprised of laptop cells - a setup not unlike the Tesla Roadster. This time around, the car is much closer to what might be expected of a mass-produced electric car. BMW plans to build another fleet of EVs based on this concept, and once again, it will again put cars into the hands of ordinary drivers and fleets for more field testing. Read on after the jump for more details and the official press release.

Gallery: BMW Concept ActiveE

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: BMW Concept ActiveE set to amp up 1 Series

Detroit Preview: BMW Concept ActiveE set to amp up 1 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: More details on BMW's rumored M1(s)

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:22:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Coupe, Performance, Europe, BMW

BMW 1 Series Tii Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has the mid-engined R8 (now available with a 525-horsepower V10). Mercedes-Benz now has the AMG SLS (with more power than the R8 - 563 horses). BMW has... a 500-horsepower V10 in a 4,000 pounds M6. Not exactly competitive in the supercar department these days. Well, according to everyone's favorite British Buff Book (EVO), BMW will be releasing a new supercar. Probably something resembling a mashup between the M1 Homage Concept and the Vision EfficientDynamics Hybrid Concept. However, it might not be called M1. Or, it might be.

Here's the thing - BMW is also believed to be working on a buffed out, super version of the 135i (based on the Tii Concept) that semi-logically could be called the M1. Check out the supposed stats on this little puppy: a reworked twin-turbo 3.0-liter motor good for 400 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque, a 150 pound weight reduction, seven-speed dual-clutch tranny, the M3's suspension and torque-vectoring rear end. Where do we sign up?

The issue is that some people within BMW feel the semi-sacred M1 moniker should be reserved only for a car that replaces the 1978 M1, the first car BMW's Motorsports Division ever made (even if Lamborghini played a roll). They do have a point, as among us gearhead types the M1 is a pretty reverential piece of machinery. However, what would you call an M-caliber 1 Series?

Autoblog's advice is this: nothing's sacred. Call the hopped-up 135i the M1. No one cares except for a few old timers within BMW and a few fanatics on the outside. Besides, the aforementioned old timers have sat idly by as the fabled M Division has arguably diluted its once lofty rep by releasing the X5 M and X6 M. It's all water (and money) under the bridge anyhow. And by freeing themselves from this false dilemma (because really, who cares?), BMW is free to name the new supercar the M8.

Failing that, just name the mighty 1 Series the Tii (confusing almost everyone) and reserve M1 for a proper supercar. We don't really mind, as long as both cars go on sale. And no matter the name, it sounds like the range-topping 1 Series should see the light of day in 2011 and the new supercar - which will pair BMW's 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with two electric motors - should come online around 2012. Color us excited.

Gallery: BMW Concept 1 Series tii

Gallery: BMW M1 Hommage

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

[Source: EVO]

REPORT: More details on BMW's rumored M1(s) originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Is this the 2011/2012 BMW 1 Series?

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 28 May 2009 18:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, BMW

Fresh pics of what looks to be the next generation BMW 1 Series have been snapped in Germany. If it is the rumored 2011/2012 model, it adheres to the trend of nearly every new car, as it appears to be simultaneously bigger and brawnier all over. It isn't the forthcoming X1 crossover, since a quick look at those two cars side-by-side reveals different ride heights and rooflines, among other things.

One of 1Addict's forum commenters said he has had his current 1 Series next to the new one and he confirms that the new one is larger. If this five-door hatch really is longer and wider, with a longer wheelbase than the current car then BMW appears to removed this car from the plan to reduce 1 Series curb weights. Hat tip to Andrew.

[Source: 1Addicts]

Spy Shots: Is this the 2011/2012 BMW 1 Series? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 May 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW 135i "SuperSports" model coming in 2010

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 10:26:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, BMW, Rumormill

Click above for a high-res gallery of the BMW 1 Series tii concept

According to a report originally posted at Germancarzone and then repeated at BMW Blog, a certain Bavarian automaker is currently working on a new performance version of its 1 Series. Although it wouldn't be called an M1 -- since that moniker is reserved for supercar status -- the so-called 135i SuperSports would get a bunch of improvements, consisting mostly of lightweight body panels, a decontented interior, as well as an upgraded suspension and brake package. Power is said to come from the latest version of BMW's outstanding 3.0L turbocharged inline-six that's rated at 326-horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque in the 2009 7 Series.

We wouldn't be surprised to see the upgraded engine migrate down the line from its placement under the hood of the latest flagship, but we're a bit dubious that an upcoming lightweight SuperSports edition will see daylight beyond that. We'd rather see the 1 Series get these light weight mods (in a tii model perhaps?) along with a smaller four cylinder engine option, complete with a price that's a bit easier to swallow than the current model. We're also still holding out hope for the 123d.

Gallery: BMW Concept 1 Series tii

[Source: Germancarzone via BMW Blog]

Rumormill: BMW 135i "SuperSports" model coming in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eBay Find of the Day: Texas dealer's replica BMW 135 tii

Dan Roth — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:37:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Concept Cars, Tuners, Auctions, BMW

Click above for photo gallery

Now that BMW's 1-series has a solid presence on dealer lots, enthusiasts of the Roundel can start with lusty customizations that pay homage to the great BMWs of the past. In the case of this 135, we can say that BMW started it with its Concept tii that made the rounds in late 2007. Classic BMW in Texas plucked a 135i out of its stock for Projekt 1. Many of the "upgrades" that have been applied to the car are largely unneeded cosmetic geegaws like mirror covers and bodykit accents. We're down with the matte stripe job on the hood, and the vaguely described "retrofit front suspension" and performance exhaust system offer some tangible benefits; the exhaust even proves its worth with dyno sheets.

Basically, the exhaust and suspension are the only things on the list worth having, and those would cost about 5 grand, rather than the 12K price inflation this 135 is carrying. While we're sure Projekt 1 is a hoot to drive, we already have a hard time getting behind 1 Series pricing, no matter how brilliant the chassis is. Slapping a bunch of junk on it and bumping the price into the heady $50,000 neighborhood doesn't make it any more attractive. Still, if you want to have the most exclusive 135i on the social climber block, a Buy It Now of $55,372 will make it yours. Thanks for the tip, David!

Gallery: BMW 135 - "Projekt 1"

[Source: eBay]

eBay Find of the Day: Texas dealer's replica BMW 135 tii originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Aug 2008 14:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW owners claim software update degrades performance

Merritt Johnson — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 13:27:00 EST

Filed under: Maintenance, BMW

BMW's N54 engine has won the International Engine of the Year award for the past two straight years. It has also been listed as one of Ward's 10 Best Engines during the same period. The engine produces 306 hp and 295 ft-lbs of torque in a 3.0L inline six package thanks to the use of twin Mitsubishi turbochargers and direct injection. The N54's quick response and smooth torque curve has been an attraction for many enthusiasts, including myself - I call my Montego Blue coupe the turbo Cookie Monster. That is why a few BMW 335i owners are miffed by a feeling of reduced performance after a recent service update. Posters on the BMW forum e90post.com claim that a software update to adjust rattling wastegate valves has induced lag into the turbochargers that wasn't there before.

As illustrated in the gallery below, the N54 turbochargers differ from most setups in that the wastegates default to the open position. This allows for better emissions due to the ability of the exhaust gas to bypass the turbochargers on start up so the catalytic converters can heat up faster. It certainly follows suit that BMW has the ability to adjust the ECU settings in order to hold those wastegates open, thus altering the turbochargers' peak boost point and adding to the perception of lag. Currently all performance degradation discussion has been based on seat of the pants feel, along with increased exhaust noise and fuel consumption. Despite the claims, BMW North America and service centers have, thus far, found no critical issue with the new settings. If owners want to present true evidence, they should use a simple OBD scanner device to data log the manifold pressure or simply run a dyno comparison test. Thanks for the tip everyone!

Gallery: BMW N54 Engine and Turbos

[Source: e90Post.com]

BMW owners claim software update degrades performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Aug 2008 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rampenfest to rock mythical town of Oberpfaffelbachen for literal launch of BMW 1-Series

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, BMW

Click above for a few images leading up to Rampfest.

As jaded pseudo-journalists, viral marketing campaigns have lost some of their grimy allure over the last few years. But BMW's latest attempt to get the masses pumped about the imminent launch of the 1-series coupe in the U.S. has so much hoontastic potential than even our oddly named friends can't ignore it.

Head on over to the fictional Bavarian village of (lemme get this right) Oberpfaffelbachen's website and you're greeted with the Oktoberfest anthem. From there, you can read up on the town's history, get a quick "Hallo" from the mayor and begin to understand the marketing ruse that BMW is launching - literally - when you check out the Rampenfest link.

The idea is simple. Build a 454 meter-high ramp that will launch the 135i over the European landscape and across the Atlantic onto U.S. shores. But the joke doesn't end there. Jeff Schultz, a (faux) documentary filmmaker, has decided to produce a movie that will cover the entire event from conception to completion, and he's been kind enough to put up a trailer of his flick to whet our appetites for the big day.

You can check out the trailer here, the filmmaker's blog here and if you're 21, female and willing to email a picture of yourself to be voted Miss Ramp (rim shot), you can enter with the rest of the contestants here.

Gallery: Rampfest

Gallery: BMW 1-Series Coupe

[Source: Oberpfafelbachen via Jalopnik]

Rampenfest to rock mythical town of Oberpfaffelbachen for literal launch of BMW 1-Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW bringing aero kit for the 1-series to Geneva, tii variant rumored

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 18:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Geneva Motor Show, BMW

Click above for a high-res gallery of the BMW 1-series tii concept.

Among the assorted wares BMW will be showing off in Geneva, the Bavarian boys will also be displaying a complete accessories package for the 1-series that includes a number of the aerodynamic features we've seen already.

According to Winding Road's sources, the concept that will be sitting on BMW's stand will gauge the public's interest in a tii model that could be powered by a twin-turbo, four-cylinder engine that would put a premium on (thank God) weight savings, thorough to lighter brakes, wheels and exterior elements.

Make the jump for BMW's press release about its performance parts for the 1-series.

Gallery: BMW 1-series performance parts catalog

Gallery: BMW Concept 1 Series tii

[Source: BMW via Winding Road]

Continue reading BMW bringing aero kit for the 1-series to Geneva, tii variant rumored

BMW bringing aero kit for the 1-series to Geneva, tii variant rumored originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pics Aplenty: New official shots of the BMW 135i

Dan Roth — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 07:28:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Etc., BMW

click above for more high-res pics of the BMW 135i

If you're still frothing at the mouth for anything having to do with the new BMW 1-Series coupe, some new photos have found their way onto the internet. It's still a 3-series that was left in the dryer too long, but the new shots show the car off in its best possible light. There's been a lot of talk about the 135 being a return to the roots of what propelled BMW to such greatness, with alphanumerics like E30 M3 and 2002tii flying about. The 135i certainly holds its own stylistically, even if it is not possessed of the same delicacy of line as its forebears. The 135i appears hefty, like a block of dense marble carved by a skilled artisan, and when you get right down to it, that's what it is. We've babbled enough, check out the gallery. Thanks for the tip, Horatiu!

[Source: edbmw]

Gallery: BMW 135i Official Shots

Pics Aplenty: New official shots of the BMW 135i originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Feb 2008 07:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Official BMW 1-series performance catalog leaks out

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 13:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, BMW

Click above for a gallery of pics.

The numero-uno forum for all things 1-series got a hold of BMW's brochure for its upcoming line of performance parts, and as suspected, much of the kit originally seen on the tii concept will be available through authorized BMW dealers.

The photos we posted last week of the modified 1-series show the same car displayed in the brochure. Unfortunately, the text is in German, but Google's translation software is here to help.

Aside from some aerodynamic body panels that are visible in the pictures, well-to-do customizers can upgrade the front brakes of their 1-series with six-piston yellow calipers squeezing 325mm drilled and slotted rotors, while two-piston calipers in the rear grab onto 320mm rotors. Three different wheel choices frame those new yellow binders, ranging from 18x7.5-inches all the way up to 19x9 inch rollers, while a new dampers, springs, stabilizer and strut tower bars are available to keep things planted at all four corners.

While we don't see an optional ECU upgrade mentioned in the brochure, BMW will be offering a new intake setup and a full exhaust to ease breathing duties, and a new short shifter supposedly reduces throws by 25-percent over its stock counterpart.

Inside, there's plenty of carbon fiber, aluminum and Alcantara accoutrements that can be applied throughout the interior, and those sports seats we've been drooling over will be available as well. The big question, however, is what's going on with the steering wheel. At the 12 o'clock position is an LCD screen that can be controlled via the two buttons flanking its sides. The display can act as a stopwatch, able to keep track of 10 different laps down to 1/100 of a second, and can record 1/8- and 1/4-mile times, saving them for later viewing, along with keeping tabs on the engine temp, positive, negative and lateral g's.

You can check out some of the pics in the gallery below.

Top tip Jack!

[Source: 1addicts]

Gallery: BMW 1-series performance parts catalog

Official BMW 1-series performance catalog leaks out originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Production BMW 135tii

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:33:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Spy Photos, Tuners, Coupe, BMW

click above for gallery of images

Few models in the BMW lineup have as much tuning potential as the newly released 135i, and the Bavarian boys and girls are intent to capture as much of that market as possible. The BMW 1-series tii concept proved that BMW was serious about offering performance parts to boost (and possibly lighten) its new turbo'd coupe, and a member of 1addicts posted photos of what could be the first 135 to get the in-house tuner treatment.

Most of the parts shown are carryovers from the tii concept, including the revised front fascia, side skirts, carbon fiber diffuser and matching rear wing. The C.F. hood may have been swapped out for a stock aluminum piece, but we're guessing the weave has been covered in matching white paint. The upgraded brakes are one of the most obvious additions, while inside, there's plenty of Alcantara covered kit, from the shift boot to the seats, which are also dead ringers for the thrones shown on the concept. The steering wheel is new however, sporting more grippy suede and complete with three different sections packed with LEDs. Your guess is as good as ours about the two displays mounted at 11 and 1, but the center mounted LED arrangement is likely a shift-light/rev meter.

Thanks for the tip, JL!

Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW 135i tuned

Gallery: BMW Concept 1 Series tii

Spy Shots: Production BMW 135tii originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Detroit 2008: BMW announces pricing for BMW 1 Series Convertible

Eric Bryant — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Convertible, BMW

click above for more high-res live shots of the BMW 1 Series Convertible

The final reveal in BMW's three-movement press conference was a drop-top version of its perfectly-sized 1 Series. While some in the audience might have preferred that the preceding female dancers had instead lost their tops, this vehicle was not a bad consolation prize.

Available in naturally-aspirated (128i) and forced-induction (135i) flavors, the 1 Series 'vert offers wind-in-your-face motoring in a mere 22 seconds by virtue of its electrohydraulic power soft top. Technical goodies abound, such as VALVETRONIC, an on-demand electric water pump that uses only 1/10th the power of a standard water pump and only runs when required, and pop-up roll bars to protect the occupants in case the vehicle goes rubber-side up. Additionally, the 135i gets an electronically-controlled limited slip differential to help cope with its additional 70 HP, as well as six-piston calipers up front to bleed off all of that speed.

BMW made note of the boat-like shape of the "shoulder" (the character line just below the 1 Series' beltline), and we gotta admit that it looks this way in person. More important than how design features are described is how well the overall package works, and the 1 Series is indeed attractive as a convertible. Consider approved by Autoblog. A variety of M Series options are available on both cars to spruce up the exterior and interior, with the 135i already getting a version of the M Aerodynamics Package as standard equipment.

Oh yeah, the price: the 128i Convertible will start at $33,875 while the hopped up 135i will break your bank at $39,875. Yikes!

Gallery: 2009 BMW 1-series convertible1

Continue reading Detroit 2008: BMW announces pricing for BMW 1 Series Convertible

Detroit 2008: BMW announces pricing for BMW 1 Series Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: BMW 1-Series spot - creation by precision

Chris Shunk — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 18:03:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, BMW

The BMW 1-Series is on the verge of being sold here in the U.S., which means the multimedia blitz is on its way. With automakers getting more creative to capture buyers attention, spots are getting more high tech, and less reality based. BMW brass have recognized the trend, and the end result is a fanciful version of how the 1-Series is produced at the factory. Hit the jump to see the the :30 spot, which carries the tag line "Makes you want to get behind the wheel." While the commercial may not do that for us, the razor sharp BMW chassis and silky smooth 300-hp twin-turbo inline-six has us panging for a shot behind the wheel. Check out the gas fill up point just before the Bimmer takes off. That would beat the hell out of self-serve in the dead of winter.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW 1-Series spot - creation by precision

VIDEO: BMW 1-Series spot - creation by precision originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Santa fires Rudolph, switches to BMW 1-series

Chris Shunk — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 20:05:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, BMW

After centuries of counting on eight reindeer (unless there is fog), it appears as though Santa Claus has instead opted for the internal combustion engine. To traverse the sometimes tight airways around metropolitan areas, good ol' Saint Nick decided the nimble nature of the BMW 1-Series was best-fitted to do the job.

The boys and girls of team Bimmer have decided that the best way to sell the 1-Series on their home turf during the holiday season is to involve the biggest commercial icon of Christmas. As you can see above, Santa is haulin' ... presents, and the smallest four-wheeler from the Bavarian Motor Werks is leading the way. St. Nick is going so fast, all the vowels have left the billboard. If this doesn't keep awake the children of Hamburg, we don't know what will. Imagine trying to sleep when every car that drives by makes you think Santa is pulling into your driveway. Heck, we're sure there are a lot of parents hoping to get the little BMW coupe for Christmas, too.

[Source: AutoblogGreen]

Santa fires Rudolph, switches to BMW 1-series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW 135i gets Schnitzered: 360 HP ACS1

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:26:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, BMW

Click the image above for a high-res gallery.

Like everything else from the propeller people, AC Schnitzer gets a stab at improving BMW's products before they're even released to the masses. The formula is the same for the new 135i, boosting power output of the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six to 360 HP and 332 lb.-ft. of torque, while simultaneously dropping the 0-60 time to under five seconds and increasing the top speed to 186 mph. The additional power is found with the installation of a new exhaust and some clever ECU tweaks, while the suspension has been replaced with the firm's sports setup that was tuned on the Nurburgring's North Loop by touring car hot shoe Manfred Wollgarten.

The body kit, comprised of a new front spoiler, side skirts, rear wing and roof mounted spoiler, supposedly do wonders for high velocity hoonage, while a set of 19x18.5-inch Type IV "BiColor" wheels wrapped in 225/35R19 rubber keep things planted at speed. Naturally, the interior benefits from a few choice pieces of trim in either aluminum or carbon fiber.

All the details are in the press release after the jump and you can check the gallery below for a handful of high-res images.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer ACS1

Continue reading BMW 135i gets Schnitzered: 360 HP ACS1

BMW 135i gets Schnitzered: 360 HP ACS1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2008 BMW 1-Series are special, receive engraved start-stop buttons

Chris Shunk — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Marketing/Advertising, BMW

Europeans have been privy to luxury small cars for decades, but since gasoline has always been much cheaper here in the States, we've been stuck with mostly unathletic luxury barges. Three dollar per gallon gasoline is changing that paradigm quickly, and smaller high-end vehicles are finally hitting our shores. Perhaps the most highly anticipated one is the BMW 1-Series, with its well-known brand pedigree and the same engines found in the 3-Series.

BMW is pulling out all the stops to ensure that the 1-Series coupe and cabriolet are successful in the US, and the marketing push reaches all the way to the stop-start button. To commemorate the beginning of the 1-Series, BMW is engraving each and every stop-start button with "Year One of the 1". The phrase pretty much says it all, and enthusiasts waiting in line for the spry little Bimmer are probably already committed to buying the smallest RWD vehicle in America with or without the special message. We're looking forward to taking a 135i out on public roads, and we'll let you know if we actually notice the forgetful little phrase embedded into the overplayed stop-start button.

[Source: CarScoop]

2008 BMW 1-Series are special, receive engraved start-stop buttons originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW 135i reviews hit the 'Net, mild swooning ensues

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:34:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, BMW

The first few reviews of the BMW 1-series - specifically the 135i - have begun to hit the web after the baby Bimmer's launch abroad a couple of weeks back. The reception thus far has been positive, citing the 3.0-liter twin-turbo's grin-inducing torque and communicative steering as high points. The portly curb weight (3,440 pounds, or only 130 pounds lighter than the 3-series coupe) and a suspension tuned for comfort rather than track duty have been the biggest gripes. We've assembled links to some of the first reviews after the jump, but until we get our hands on one, we'll remain mum on passing final judgment.

Gallery: BMW 1-Series Coupe

Continue reading BMW 135i reviews hit the 'Net, mild swooning ensues

BMW 135i reviews hit the 'Net, mild swooning ensues originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW expect rising fuel costs to spur 1-series sales

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:33:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Etc., BMW

You've heard this shtick before, but with oil prices hitting record highs - again - most automakers are making a play at bringing more frugal offerings to market. In the case of BMW though, we're a bit disjointed on the idea. Sure, the 1-series is the company's second best seller in Europe, behind the 3-series, and purchasing a 128i when it goes on sale here in the States next year is the best way to get behind the wheel of a Bimmer on the cheap. But if buyers are supposedly so cost conscious, would they really drop the coin on a BMW if fuel consumption were at the top of their priority list? BMW's cache, in the realm of both driving dynamics and badge-snobber, is largely unmatched, but are buyers bent on a Bimmer really going to downsize their ride when they can surely afford the premium the marque commands? We're not so sure.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Gallery: BMW 1-Series Coupe

BMW expect rising fuel costs to spur 1-series sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW wants 1-series to ape MINI's inaugural success

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 14:56:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Marketing/Advertising, BMW

The man behind the MINI's launch in 2001, Jack Pitney, is heading up the marketing effort for BMW's new 1-series in the U.S., and he's hoping that the same warm reception granted to the MINI will be duplicated with the new 1.

A first run of anything, whether it's a comic or a car, seems to carry a certain amount of cachet. So BMW is planning on adding special badging, a certificate of authenticity and a special book outlining the coupe's development to all 1-series models sold in the States during its first year.

Enthusiasts have already made their voice heard on the 'Net, with over 100,000 people signing up for updates on the 1-series through BMW's website. The automaker is hoping that interest will turn into preorders, and is expecting that a high percentage of 1-series coupes will already be sold before they hit dealers this spring.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]

BMW wants 1-series to ape MINI's inaugural success originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Sep 2007 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt 2007: BMW 1-series in-depth

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 14:11:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, BMW

Click the image above for a host of live high-res pics of the BMW 1-series.

Of all the vehicles that made their debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, one will likely have more impact on North American enthusiasts than any other. The BMW 1-series is outfitted with nearly everything your average motorphile could want: small size, big power, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 50/50 weight distribution -- the list goes on and on. That's why, rather than rattling off a few sentences littered with a handful of jokes and statistics, we wanted to spend a bit more time on the 1-series, much the way you would if you had attended the show.

Gallery: BMW 1-Series Coupe

Continue reading Frankfurt 2007: BMW 1-series in-depth

Frankfurt 2007: BMW 1-series in-depth originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 14:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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