2008 BMW 1-Series

• Overall
• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior
• Safety
• Reliability
• Specs

BMW 1-Series - What the Auto Press Says

The 1-Series has the precise performance and cabin refinement of its ancestor, the BMW 3-Series. But its styling isn't as sleek as other entry-level coupes.

Featuring some of the best components of the well-respected 3-Series, the 2008 BMW 1-Series debuts in U.S. markets this year with enough power and refinement to set it apart from other entry-level luxury coupes. But several reviewers say there are problems with the complete package. Number one, the 1-Series design looks distorted compared to the sleek appeal of the 3-Series. "I love the mechanicals of this car," writes the Los Angeles Times. "Well, I loved them before they got jammed into this ugly Size 8 Birkenstock." Secondly, as the Detroit News notes, "If you can afford to pay $30K for a 1 Series, what's a few thousand more to bump up to the 3 Series?"

Still others say the 1-Series' positive attributes outweigh its flaws. Car and Driver says, "What its design lacks in elegance, it makes up for in bulldog-like character." In the same review, Car and Driver adds "there really aren't other cars on the market that compare with the 135i. Indeed, it's in a very small class: a class of one." If you're in the market for an upscale small car, the Volkswagen GTI also has strong performance. The Audi A3 also has good performance, as well as more second-row room and a well-received exterior.

• "The 135i has a lot going for it: It's a slightly smaller and slightly faster version of the 3-series coupe, already one of our favorite cars. It looks cool and brings you BMW virtues for a lower price than that of a comparable 3-series sedan. What's not to like about that?" -- Car and Driver
• "Well-positioned to appeal to both up-and-coming Generation-Y buyers and older enthusiasts alike, BMW significantly expands the entry-level premium sporty car market with the 1 Series." -- Forbes
• " BMW's new 1 Series really is just that-the only one in its class" -- Motor Trend
• "Overall, there are lots of excellent qualities of the 1 Series, but it rides too closely to the 3 Series to make an impact. … While other carmakers cruise that fine line of premium compacts -- offering stylish hatchbacks with performance and luxury -- the 1 Series falls short in the segment and for BMW. -- Detroit News
• "Who wants a poor man's BMW? A poor man, that's who." -- Los Angeles Times

1-Series Performance - NA

Test drivers say the performance of the new 1-Series is in a class by itself. Car and Driver notes "the twin-turbo inline-six is a honey, with a suggestive exhaust yowl at high revs, excellent midrange power, and the smoothness of Bill Clinton in full schmooze. The six-speed manual is slick and swift, and the steering is fully involved in what's going on at the tire contact patch. Heck, the thing even rides well." Continue with our full Performance Review for more information on how the 3-Series' engines, suspension and steering translate the road in the 1-Series. continue

1-Series Exterior - NA

Most reviewers are disappointed with the proportions of the new 1-Series. "The new 1-series BMW is ugly. Seriously ugly," says the Los Angeles Times. "Ugly with X-wings locked in attack formation. I know an ugly car when one blows past me at 100 mph." Continue with our full Exterior Review to read other comments on the 1-Series' design. continue

1-Series Interior - NA

Reviews reveal the quality of the 2008 1-Series' cabin is up to BMW's normal standards, but rear seat room is compromised. Motor Trend writes, "The 135i's interior and ride quality first rate and on par with its stablemates, though space is definitely at a premium." Continue with our full Interior Review to read experts' opinions of seat comfort and quality. continue

1-Series Safety - NA

The 1-Series has not been crash tested, but provides class-competitive safety features. Continue with our full Safety Review to read reviewers' praise for the clear sightlines and solid stability control systems in the 1-Series. continue

1-Series Reliability - NA

BMW offers a basic warranty for the first four-years or 50,000 miles. Continue with our full 1-Series Reliability Review for more information on BMW's reputation and the reliability of the similar BMW 3-Series. continue