Exterior

With standard visual cues that come only with the 128i's optional M Sport Package, the 135i has an aggressive front bumper with three large air inlets. Xenon headlights are standard, and they carry a white bordering up top for 2012, mirroring the headlight treatment across most other BMWs. These lights include a string of LEDs embedded in the caps, a visual cue used in the automaker's redesigned 6 Series.

Rather than the 3 Series convertible's folding metal hardtop, the 135i convertible has a fabric soft-top that can open or close in 22 seconds, BMW says. It operates at speeds up to 25 mph.

The 1 Series remains a small car overall, about 2 inches shorter and narrower than a Scion tC. The popular 3 Series coupe, in comparison, measures about 10 inches longer.

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    In the Cabin
    Because each was equipped with the optional Sport Package, both of our test cars had "multi-contoured" power sport seats, which we found comfortable. An additional seat adjustment, which ...

    Center armrest
    Opening Press the button, arrow 1, and fold the center arm rest up, arrow 2. Connection for an external audio device This can be used to connect an external audio device, such as an MP3 play ...

    Language
    Setting the language To set the language on the Control Display: 1. "Settings" 2. "Language/Units" 3. "Language:" 4. Select the desired language. The settin ...