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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    Stowing cargo
    ▷ Heavy cargo: stow as far forward and as low as possible, ideally directly behind the cargo area separating wall. ▷ Very heavy cargo: when the rear seat is not occupied, secure e ...

    Lamps
    At a glance 1 Rear fog lamps* 2 Front fog lamps* 3 Automatic headlamp control / adaptive light control* / high-beam assistant* / welcome lamps / daytime running lights* 4 Lamps off / daytime ...

    Optional M Sport brake
    For performance-minded customers, BMW can alternatively offer the M Sport brake, which combines high performance standards with sporty styling. Aluminium four-piston fixed callipers at the front a ...