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:

    TRACTION
    When TRACTION is active, the vehicle has maximum traction on loose road surfaces. DTC Dynamic Traction Control, refer to page 105, is activated. Driving stability is limited during acceleration ...

    Tow-starting and towing
    Transporting your vehicle Note Your vehicle is not permitted to be towed. Therefore, contact a service center in the event of a breakdown. Do not have the vehicle towed Have your vehicle tran ...

    Tilting the glass sunroof
    Push switch upward briefly. ► The closed roof is tilted and the sliding visor opens slightly. ► The opened roof closes until it is in its tilted position. The sliding visor stays ...