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Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Detroit: BMW 1 Series Coupe facelift debuts

On the heels of its recently-announced 1 Series M, BMW took the wraps off of its lightly facelifted 1 Series Coupe today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Like the M-enhanced 1 Series, the 128i and 135i coupes gain new front fascias that incorporate BMW’s unique Air Curtain, a design that enhances airflow over the wheels to reduce aerodynamic resistance. The design is integrated into both the 128i’s standard front fascia an the M Aerodynamic Kit that comes standard on 135is. BMW hasn’t said if the design improves its EPA fuel economy rating, however.

Two 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engines return. 128is are powered by a naturally-aspirated 230-horsepower, 200 lb-ft. of torque motor mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The 135i, on the other hand, will now offer a 3.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline six that puts out 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft. of torque. Used in virtually every other BMW, this engine has finally made its way into the 1 Series. Its turbo system helps it achieve maximum torque from just 1,200 rpm to 5,000 rpm, an improvement over the outgoing twin-turbo inline six. A six-speed manual is standard, while a seven-speed dual clutch automatic is optional.

Inside, the 1 Series is mostly carried over, although a new interior package featuring a gloss white trim is added to the options list for both models. The front seats add active head restraints for increased safety in rear impacts.

The 1 Series’ audio and Bluetooth system has also been upgraded, although the changes apply to late 2011 model year cars, too. BMW’s iDrive system can now access emails, text messages and notes on connected Blackberry devices, while the iPod connector has been simplified. Album cover art is now displayed through the 1 Series’ dashboard-mounted display.

BMW says that the 128i Convertible will start at $37,475, while the 135i Convertible will list from $44,675. Both prices include a mandatory $875 destination charge.

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