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2013 BMW 1-Series Cabrio Preview

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Justin Pritchard
Smallest BMW ready for topless pleasure
Price Range: $41,400 and up

Description: The 1 Series might be the smallest BMW-branded vehicle sold in Canada by the German marquee, but its living proof that big-time driving pleasure can come in small packages -- especially with the roof down.

The highly sporty, two-door drop-top sets itself apart with a bright, alert and dynamic fascia, a compact and athletic stance and numerous high-end touches like side-marker lamps, a chrome grille treatment and LED-ring headlamp accents.

All models are two-door, four-seat machines that are engineered to be lightweight and highly entertaining to drive, thanks in no small part to a 50/50 weight distribution between the axles.

The fully motorized top can be dismissed in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button, and when it’s up, extensive sound insulation and aerodynamic efforts keep offensive wind noise to a minimum.

Photo: BMW

Drivetrain: All 2013 BMW 1 Series models are rear-wheel drive and powered by a 6-cylinder engine. The first of these is a 3.0L naturally aspirated unit with variable valve timing tuned to make 230 efficient horsepower. A turbocharged straight-6 engine is also available, and generates 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.

Consider it if: a blend of luxury, fuel efficiency and performance are top priorities in your next convertible. The 2013 BMW 1-Series is capable of generating some impressive figures in terms of both performance and fuel consumption. As a four-seater, it’s also ready for a pair of kids in the back, as needed. As a premium model, safety and sophistication are both top-notch.

Skip it if: you’re on a tight budget, as the $41,400 asking price for a basic 2013 BMW 1 Series model is lofty compared to numerous other performance coupes. Though most drivers will find the 1 Series adequately sized, some will wish for more interior space.

Other Notes: Features? You got it. The 2013 BMW 1 Series offers:
- Adaptive headlamps;
- Navigation;
- Bluetooth;
- Premium audio, and plenty more.

Push-button start, Google integration and automatic climate control are all on board, as are USB audio integration and the BMW assist service.

Photo: BMW

Don’t Miss: the iDrive console. Once drivers go through a moderate learning curve, this innovative system allows manipulation of hundreds of vehicle functions via a few millimeters of fingertip movement thought a central dial. Many functions, including navigation destination entry, can be manipulated by voice command via a small button on the steering wheel.

Various interior colour schemes are available to fine-tune the 2013 BMW 1 Series to the owner’s taste for either a sporty or luxurious atmosphere.

Making it easy for drivers to stay connected while on the move, the BMW 1 Series also offers special BMW apps that connect with the driver’s smartphone. From the central command screen and iDrive console, drivers can access Twitter, Facebook, internet radio programs, newsfeeds, and more.

Justin Pritchard
Justin Pritchard
Automotive expert
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