BMW 135i.

 

BMW 135i. From 1,373,300 RUB.

The BMW 1 Series lineup is expanding. Coupes are becoming increasingly popular. There is no M version yet, but a variant with a turbocharged three-liter engine is available

No one will argue that BMW cars are expensive. But no one will argue that they are high-tech machines. Their engines and gearboxes have been receiving awards as the best for years. New developments quickly spread across the entire model range. The 1 Series models are no exception.

One of the fastest "kopecks" is the version with a turbocharged three-liter engine. The power of this unit is 306 hp, developed at 5800 rpm. The torque is very high — 400 Nm is available from 1300 rpm. The car accelerates like a projectile fired from a cannon. Thanks to the turbo, the engine quickly revs up to maximum rpm. In our opinion, it makes sense to shift at 6000-6500 rpm. At this point, maximum power is achieved, and the engine does not have time to reach the rev limiter when shifting gears.

For testing, given the sporty character of the car, we chose a model with a 6-speed manual transmission. An automatic is also available.

The gearbox operation is precise with short throws, which is very important for an active driving style. First and second gears are acceleration gears, so they are very short. For fuel economy and more relaxed driving, you can skip gears — 1-3-5-6. The engine handles this easily. RPM does not exceed 3000-4000. There is enough dynamics not only to not get lost in traffic, but also to be a little faster than everyone else. At the same time, the cabin remains almost completely quiet.

To reach 100 km/h, the BMW 1 Series needs only 5.3 seconds. Few are ready to compete with such a car, and those who do try quickly cool down. The "135" badge on the trunk lid says a lot.

There is no M version yet, but the BMW 135i already has much from it — body kit, interior trim, and most importantly, M suspension. Its settings allow for a more active driving style. Although on strong bumps there are occasional bottoming out. In corners, the car behaves predictably, following the trajectory set by the driver.


Driving
The powerful engine provides excellent traction, and the suspension and steering provide excellent handling.

Interior
The interior trim is top-notch. There is plenty of space in the front, a bit cramped in the back, but this is a coupe.

Price
High, but who said that technology should be cheap!


Pros and cons

+ Powerful engine, good brakes, attractive looks.
- Little space in the back, small trunk, stiff suspension.

Specifications

Make and model - BMW 135i
Dimensions - 4360x1748x1408 mm
Engine - petrol, 2979 cc, 306 hp / 5800 rpm
Transmission - manual, 6-speed
Dynamics - max 250 km/h; 5.3 s to 100 km/h
Competitors - Mercedes-Benz SLK