Topic: Test Drive: 2011 BMW 135i Cabriolet

[Autos_Editor]

For 2011, the compact 1-Series convertible is available with a new seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission that Chris Chase says is "much better" than BMW's six-speed Sequential Manual Transmission.  It's "a great match for BMW's twin-turbocharged six-cylinder," he enthuses.

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[Ex-airbalancer]

I am surprise they did not supply a windscreen as it improves top down driving 100%
So you can probably add another $450 for one

[bikenut]

always liked the 1 series for what it represented and am really excited about this baby coming up
http://www.motorauthority.com/blog/1047005_video-bmw-releases-second-teaser-for-1-series-m-car

[djk]

The 135i is NOT a twin turbo in 2011, but a twin scroll single turbo...canadiandriver.com has now gotten that wrong in two consecutive articles...maybe a minor detail for some, but inaccurate nonetheless.

[D70]

"The engine displays a touch of turbo lag, and between that and the touchy throttle, accelerating from low speeds can create some head-tossing if you’re not gentle with the gas pedal. Same goes for the brakes, which are very strong but also grabby; smooth stopping takes practice in this car."

  If you need four seats and performance this is the car.

 I found that when driving the coupe version of this car the same drive.ability problems. To drive the car smoothly in the urban environment will take some practice.

 The other item to watch out for is when selecting 1 st gear. Its all too easy to select reverse instead.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/d70w7/4919888930/in/set-72157624788699088/

[dragonflyjack]

 Okay...this has got to be the worlds most expensive compact car...Also, the heaviest...I cannot get over that sagging belly look...I'm sure the seats are nice...the automatic tranny shifts swiftly, and the fit and finish are par excellence....
   But...look at that sagging belly...Erkkk..Where do people get the money for these little toys?    dragonfly

[350Zed]

"Price as tested: $60,045"

 

[Ex-airbalancer]

When the sun is shinning on a back country road, there is not much of a better feeling then beening in a cab

[wing]

The 135i is NOT a twin turbo in 2011, but a twin scroll single turbo...canadiandriver.com has now gotten that wrong in two consecutive articles...maybe a minor detail for some, but inaccurate nonetheless.

It's because BMW calls it TwinPower turbo-charged.  Could that be more confusing?

[Ex-airbalancer]

"Price as tested: $60,045"

 

Why worry about the price, if it good value to you buy it, if not forgot about it 

[hemusbull]

So much completed and expensive small sports car with a lot of futures specific for North America. Just one think of German engineer's philosophy I do not understand -   many of their cars have tiny, like aftermarket Canadian Tire plastic cup holders bought for 10$. I don' get it! 

[jeepguy]

As built C$60,000.00 Zack will always remind Canadians that value can be found south of the border but Chris?

[aknutson]

Yuck, what an ugly convertible. I mean, as a coupe I can almost tolerate it, especially knowing I can be hidden by tinted windows and a low roof so nobody has to see who's driving. Plus, as a coupe, the value/performance equation is even better. As a convertible and everyone can see the Miata-on-Steroids I bought? Hmmm - nope. It's a ladies car...or men who have very little dogs with names like 'fluffy'.

If I were to buy a convertible, it would either be a less-powerful 3-series for the same price (much better looking), or the even-better-looking Audi A5 Cab. The 1-series looks like it got hit from both ends, then melted.

[chrischasescars]

The 135i is NOT a twin turbo in 2011, but a twin scroll single turbo...canadiandriver.com has now gotten that wrong in two consecutive articles...maybe a minor detail for some, but inaccurate nonetheless.

Crap, yes, that was my oversight. I'll fix that; thanks for pointing it out.

[que]

BMW if you can read, please bring the 204hp, 295 torque diesel 2L twin turbo engine.  This unit has two turbos, and from the Euro reviews, a great engine, and gets like 5L/100km combined.  Nevertheless, keep these fine rides coming.

[Jaeger]

It's just as ugly in convertible form. 

Jaeger

[aknutson]

It's just as ugly in convertible form. 

Jaeger

  A shame, cause it's a brilliant car...it's kind of like meeting the perfect woman, except she looks like she got hit in the face with a shovel, lol.

[Gary]

A bloated, ugly little porker- and shtoopid spendy . No 2002 reincarnated, that's for certain.

[jeepguy]

Thanks for reminding me how wonderful the 2002 was. How many of you knew that the modern Mini weighs more than the 2002 ?

[CanuckS2K]

I guess you can add me to the list that just can't get by looks of the 1 series.  I have never driven one, but I am sure it's an absolute blast to drive.  However, it just doesn't do anything for me when it comes to exterior styling.  And almost $10k in options and not even Navi??