Not that smaller inside
If you've driven a 3-Series, this 135i will not seem all that cramped. Compared to a 3 Coupe, you won't feel any difference in the driver's seat apart from a little less shoulder room. The back seat and trunk space is where the 1-Series really is smaller. So unless you're downsizing from a really big car, you probably won't feel claustrophobic in the 1.
The multi-adjustable chairs are pretty comfortable and include a seat cushion extender. As for the back seat, climbing in is easy when the top is down but back-breaking when it's not; once in place, though, two adults will be at ease if they don't mind rubbing shoulders.
The convertible top's operation couldn't really be easier. Just leave your finger on a button located on the bottom of the centre stack, and after about 15 seconds, the roof is neatly stowed away under the hard tonneau cover. It takes up little extra trunk space. If you choose the Premium package, you can lower the raise the top and windows with the keyfob, which is cool.
Looks better than a 3-Series
Not that the 3 is ugly, mind you, but the 1-Series svelte proportions are more alluring than its bigger sister, especially in sedan configuration. The front and rear fenders melt over the wheels that are pushed out to the max, while the front end benefits from a very short overhang. A bulge can be noticed at beltline height which gives the car an organic shape.
Inside, though, it's a little less striking. The dash looks like what you'll see in every other BMW, which means dark and unexciting but functional nonetheless. The light beige leather (BMW calls it 'lemon') on the seats and door panels gladly brightens up the environment.
I just wish the cockpit would have a little more storage space, as there's no room to put my CD case or other similar-sized objects. I guess Germans don't leave anything in their cars. The center console-mounted cupholder looks like an afterthought for Americans, too.
If you've driven a 3-Series, this 135i will not seem all that cramped. Compared to a 3 Coupe, you won't feel any difference in the driver's seat apart from a little less shoulder room. The back seat and trunk space is where the 1-Series really is smaller. So unless you're downsizing from a really big car, you probably won't feel claustrophobic in the 1.
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| The multi-adjustable chairs are pretty comfortable and include a seat cushion extender. |
The multi-adjustable chairs are pretty comfortable and include a seat cushion extender. As for the back seat, climbing in is easy when the top is down but back-breaking when it's not; once in place, though, two adults will be at ease if they don't mind rubbing shoulders.
The convertible top's operation couldn't really be easier. Just leave your finger on a button located on the bottom of the centre stack, and after about 15 seconds, the roof is neatly stowed away under the hard tonneau cover. It takes up little extra trunk space. If you choose the Premium package, you can lower the raise the top and windows with the keyfob, which is cool.
Looks better than a 3-Series
Not that the 3 is ugly, mind you, but the 1-Series svelte proportions are more alluring than its bigger sister, especially in sedan configuration. The front and rear fenders melt over the wheels that are pushed out to the max, while the front end benefits from a very short overhang. A bulge can be noticed at beltline height which gives the car an organic shape.
Inside, though, it's a little less striking. The dash looks like what you'll see in every other BMW, which means dark and unexciting but functional nonetheless. The light beige leather (BMW calls it 'lemon') on the seats and door panels gladly brightens up the environment.
I just wish the cockpit would have a little more storage space, as there's no room to put my CD case or other similar-sized objects. I guess Germans don't leave anything in their cars. The center console-mounted cupholder looks like an afterthought for Americans, too.
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| The dash looks like what you'll see in every other BMW, which means dark and unexciting but functional nonetheless. |