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:

    Active Protection - preventative occupant protection
    The Active Protection safety package is making its debut in the new BMW 3-Series Sedan under the banner of BMW ConnectedDrive. This assistance system is activated shortly after the driver pulls aw ...

    The concept
    DSC prevents traction loss in the driving wheels when driving away and accelerating. DSC also recognizes unstable vehicle conditions, such as fishtailing or nose-diving. Subject to physical lim ...

    Transmitting the settings
    Your personal settings can be taken with you to another vehicle equipped with the Personal Profile function. For more information, contact your service center. Transmission takes place via: &# ...