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.

    See also:

    Opening the hood
    Working in the engine compartment Never attempt to perform any service or repair operations on your vehicle without the necessary professional technical training. If you are unfamiliar with the ...

    Issued warning
    If you leave the lane and if a lane marking has been detected, the steering wheel begins vibrating. If the turn signal is set before changing the lane, a warning is not issued. End of warning T ...

    Priority options
    The driver has priority The source selected via iDrive in the front is output on the vehicle loudspeakers and can be selected but not operated from the rear. Other audio or video sources ...