1 Series M in the Market

The 1 Series M has few direct competitors. With its 2+2 seating and $47,000 starting price, the Audi TTS is in the same ballpark, but its performance trails the 1M's, and you can't get a manual transmission. The new 2012 Audi TT RS comes exclusively with a manual transmission and all-wheel drive, and it boasts zero-to-60 times closer to 4 seconds, but it costs almost $10,000 more.

All the same, the 1M seems a car for BMW fans, but I wouldn't buy it without first testing the 135i and M3. If you're OK with the small size, the 135i will deliver nearly as much fun off a racetrack, and the M3 is more versatile. It's also thirstier, rated at 14/20 mpg with a manual transmission versus 19/26 mpg for the 1M and 20/28 mpg for the 135i. Whatever you do, act now, because the 1M will be sold only as a 2011 model.

    See also:

    Switching the interior lamps on and off
    Press the button. To switch off permanently: press the button for approx. 3 seconds. To clear this setting: press the button. ...

    Climate control functions in detail
    Manual air distribution Turn the wheel to select the desired program. ▷ Windows. ▷ Upper body region. ▷ Windows, upper body region, and footwell. ▷ Footwell. De ...

    Components of the integrated Owner's Manual
    The integrated Owner's Manual consists of three parts, which offer various levels of information or access possibilities. Quick Reference Guide Located in the Quick Reference is important inform ...