Following the 1M Coupe, BMW also revealed the new editions of the normal 1 Series Coupe and Convertible which will go on sale next year as a 2012 model. The new refreshed models are slightly upgraded in terms of design, but the changes are literally unnoticeable! Only if yo strain your eyes real hard you might be able to notice the horizontal LED eyebrow at front or the new graphic of the taillights.
Both coupe and convertible versions of the new 1er will be available as 128i and 135i models. The first gets a a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline-6 engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, and the latter a features BMW’s newest, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. Equipped with a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and BMW’s revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, the engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.
Both cars also feature BMW’s latest aerodynamic innovation introduced first on the BMW 1-Series M Coupe. The Air Curtain improves air flow around the front wheel arches with the benefit of significantly reduced turbulence. The 128i Coupe can also be equipped with special Aero Wheels to further enhance the performance of the Air Curtain system.
This innovative feature consists of openings in the outer section of the lower front fascia that route high-pressure air through ducts at each front corner. The ducts are approximately 10 x 3 centimeters wide and are designed to channel air to openings at the front of each wheel arch, where it is discharged through a very narrow opening at high speed. The escaping air stream covers the side of the front wheels like a curtain, thereby reducing aerodynamically unfavorable turbulence around the rotating wheels.
Along with the usual styling tweaks, the 135i Coupe also gets an M Aerodynamic Kit. That includes an additional lip spoiler provides greater downforce on the rear end at high speeds. The individual sections within the L-shaped rear taillights give the vehicle a lower, sportier look. Horizontal elements integrated in the rear light clusters offer a homogeneous lighting effect.
When equipped with Adaptive Xenon headlights (standard on 135i), these horizontal elements are powered by light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This light design, as found on other BMW models, makes the BMW 1-Series Coupe stand out at night. Also, the Adaptive Brake Lights, which operate in two stages relative to brake application force, are yet another feature typical of BMW with the benefit of added safety.
The 2012 BMW 1er Convertible is the most fun between the two. It comes with electro-hydraulically-operated softtop can be raised a mere 22 seconds – even on the move at speeds up to 25 miles per hour.
The standard softtop is available in either black or taupe cloth, but it is the optional Moonlight Black version which is unique to the BMW 1-Series Convertible. Interwoven with fine shiny metallic fibers, this distinctive top produces a shimmery metallic silver appearance in sunlight. The visual effect enhances the convertible’s exciting range of nine colors which includes an exclusive hue: Cashmere Silver Metallic.
The view from the rear is influenced by the position of the softtop: with the top lowered, completely concealed in the tail, the look is flat and elegant; the appearance with the top up is broad shouldered. The trunk lid has an integrated spoiler chiseled into the rear end of the car to accentuate the short rear section. On the 135i, an additional lip spoiler provides greater downforce on the rear end at high speeds.
The interior of both models are also upgraded for 2012. The BMW ConnectedDrive system which can be ordered for all models in enhanced with BMW Assist with Bluetooth and the iPod/USB Adapter. These enhancements extend the functionality through improved integration of mobile devices into the vehicle.
The BMW 1-Series Coupe is available with a choice of two upholstery options – sporty and comfortable Leatherette or rich Boston Leather. Boston Leather upholstery adds further style to the high-quality impression of the interior. For 2012, a new interior trim option is available. All the trim elements may be ordered in Gloss White for a sporty and fresh look. The optional Sport Package includes sports bucket seats with enhanced side support which are available in highly distinctive leatherette materials or Boston leather.
The climate-control system in the BMW 1-Series Convertible has an additional convertible mode (compared to the system in the BMW 1-Series Coupe) designed for open-roof conditions. The three standard modes; gentle, medium and intensive, react primarily to interior sensors, while the convertible mode reacts less to interior temperature and more to the exterior temperature and sunlight factors to establish the intensity of the ventilation. Turbulence in the roof-down cabin can be reduced by an available wind deflector which can be affixed to the sides of the vehicle with a few adjustments. The wind deflector allows for conversation at normal sound levels and the ability to enjoy the wide variety of audio and communication offerings which include SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio, the optional Premium Sound system, and Bluetooth. For simple and straightforward connection of an MP3 player, an auxiliary input jack is standard and a USB port for direct control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player is available as an option.
Safety Features:
Coupe: No less than six airbags come standard within the 2011 BMW 1-Series Coupe for optimum protection of the car’s occupants. The advanced frontal airbags are activated in stages relative to impact severity while the side airbags integrated into the sides of the front seat backrests reduce the risk of injury at chest and hip levels in side impact situations. HPS (Head Protection System) side curtain airbags fitted in the roof lining protect both the occupants on the front seats and the passengers at the rear. The 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe also comes with crash-optimized seats with active headrests that significantly reduc the risk of neck injury in an impact from the rear.
Cabrio: The four standard airbags in the 2012 BMW 1-Series Convertible are designed for the optimum protection of the car’s occupants. The advanced frontal airbags are activated in stages relative to impact severity while the side airbags integrated into the sides of the front seat backrests reduce the risk of injury at chest, hip and head levels in side impact situations. The BMW 1-Series Convertible also comes with crash-optimized seats with active headrests designed to reduce the risk of neck injury in an impact from the rear.
