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2011 BMW 1 Series Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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BMW’s pint-size 1 Series has drawn rave reviews (if not stellar sales) since its introduction stateside in 2008. As the smallest model in the famed German automaker’s lineup, the 1 Series delivers spunky performance in a tidy package. For 2011 the littlest BMW gets a host of updates aimed at maintaining customer interest ahead of an all-new design slated to debut next year.
The 2011 1 Series is available as either a two-door coupe or a soft-top convertible. Two different inline six-cylinder engines are offered, both driving the rear wheels. Positioned below the bread-and-butter 3 Series, the 1 Series’ compact dimensions make it a ball to throw into corners as well as easy to park. Yet the 1 Series suffers from a decided lack of interior space, and its rather dear pricetag places it close to a much more versatile 3 Series sedan.
For 2011 BMW has replaced a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder motor with a newly developed single-turbo unit. Despite halving the squeeze quotient, output remains the same at 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. The base (naturally aspirated) straight six carries over with 230 hp. Also new for 2011 is BMW’s seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission; it replaces last year’s conventional six-speed automatic. The new gearbox uses electro-hydraulic control to allow easy operation without a power-robbing torque converter.
Two trim levels are available for the 1 Series. The 128i coupe and convertible feature the non-turbo inline-six motor and get full leather upholstery as a no-charge option. Also standard are 17-inch alloy wheels and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The 128i convertible gets a lined, power-operated soft top with electric heated rear window. Stepping up to the 135i nets buyers the punchy, turbocharged engine, 18-inch wheels, xenon headlights, and automatic climate control. The 135i also requires a major financial commitment; coupes start at just over $36,000 (roughly the same as a non-turbo 3 Series coupe), while the 135i convertible checks in at an eye-watering $40,350.
For that much coin the 1 Series had better deliver a pretty special driving experience, and this being BMW, it does. Push the start button and the silky six whirs to life. The company’s famous inline engines positively purr; each press of the accelerator unleashes a smooth torrent of power accompanied by a muted snarl. At 3,200 pounds the 1 Series is rather heavy for such a small car, but the torquey six easily overcomes the car's mass to provide swift acceleration. Non-turbo 128i’s charge from 0-60 in just 6.1 seconds, while boosted 135i models shave a full second off that time, throwing passengers back into their seats on their way to a 149-mph top speed.
While the new dual-clutch gearbox will garner much attention, enthusiast buyers should still opt for the conventional six-speed manual transmission. Featuring BMW’s signature smooth engagement and Swiss-watch precision, the stick shift makes extracting the 1 Series’ considerable performance a joy. While the newfangled seven-speed gearbox is quite competent (and actually delivers better acceleration numbers), it cannot match the sublime pleasure of matching revs on the traditional manual.
Under the skin the 2011 1 Series’ four-wheel independent suspension uses the familiar BMW layout. The MacPherson strut-type front and multi-link rear arrangement is tuned for sporty handling. With its tidy dimensions and perfect 50/50 weight distribution, the 1 Series is among the best-handling cars available at any price. While it may not possess the ultimate grip of dedicated sports cars like the Corvette, the 1 Series attacks corners with terrier-like enthusiasm. Like most BMWs the 1 Series translates driver input to the road with almost supernatural efficacy. Likewise feedback is subtly transmitted back to the driver through the sharp, speed-sensitive steering and supple suspension. Braking is excellent, owing to large vented discs at all four wheels with ABS control.
As a performance machine the little 1 Series gives up nothing to larger, more established cars. Yet as a daily driver it stumbles badly. While the Europe-only hatchback possess a modicum of utility, the coupe and convertible we get here in the U.S. are simply too small and lack versatility. Though the front seats possess good legroom and a wide range of adjustment, the narrow cabin limits elbow room and generally feels cramped. Rear seat space is negligible; even small adults will become close friends with the headliner and front seat back. Cargo space is also woefully inadequate, especially in the convertible. While its tidy dimensions make parking a snap, this is not an effective urban errand runner.
In addition to being quite cramped, the 2011 1 Series’ interior is a bit of a letdown in terms of style. The hard black plastics and dour design can’t match the high standard set by competitors like the Audi A3 and Lexus IS. Although ergonomics are quite good (due in large part to the deletion of the infernal iDrive system), the cheap finishes simply don’t belong in such an expensive car. The no-cost leather upholstery scores some points, as does the newly standard iPod integration, but the nickel-and-dime options list means you’ll pay extra for items like power heated seats, an alarm system, and parking sensors.
Overall the 2011 1 Series earns top marks for performance, handling, and style. It’s perhaps the purest expression of the vaunted BMW experience that can be purchased today. Running a 135i stick shift through the gears on a winding road is a singular, transcendent experience. But this particular brand of automotive nirvana simply costs too much, in both dollars and lost practicality. Most buyers would be better off stepping up to the more well-rounded (if slightly less thrilling) 3 Series. Though the American marketplace has reacted poorly to hatchbacks of late, one wonders if many of the more utilitarian (and less expensive) European variants of the 1 Series might be welcome on this side of the Atlantic.
Published May 31, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2011 BMW 1 Series
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Miguel S
Dec 19, 2023
The car was terrible had no mufflers, body damage engine, making noise so I pass no thank you!!!!Dec 19, 2023
by Terry T
Oct 22, 2022
If you’re interested in a model of this year, make sure that you have it inspected by a BMW dealership before you buy. Otherwise, nice ride. Oct 22, 2022
by Derek R
Feb 13, 2022
Decent power. Good handling. Aged well. Wish it was a coupe instead of a convertible. Otherwise, a good car.Feb 13, 2022
User rating:
by Miguel S
Dec 19, 2023
The car was terrible had no mufflers, body damage engine, making noise so I pass no thank you!!!!Dec 19, 2023
by Terry T
Oct 22, 2022
If you’re interested in a model of this year, make sure that you have it inspected by a BMW dealership before you buy. Otherwise, nice ride. Oct 22, 2022
by Derek R
Feb 13, 2022
Decent power. Good handling. Aged well. Wish it was a coupe instead of a convertible. Otherwise, a good car.Feb 13, 2022
by Joe N
Jan 28, 2022
First BMW I’ve owned. History of cool cars all of US origin. When BMW advertises “the ultimate driving experience “ it is spot on. Had I bought my first BMW 30 years ago I would have never bought anything else. Jan 28, 2022
by James W
Dec 04, 2021
The cars solid with great handling. Its quite different than driving a FWD car---but in a good way. I just wish I had been able to find a manual transmission in the same condition as mine. Apparently Californian prefer automatics. Nevertheless, its still fun, and the automatic has its benefits. GREAT CARDec 04, 2021
by JOHN M
Oct 20, 2021
car was not in top of line condition from interior to outsideOct 20, 2021
by Anthony J
Sep 06, 2021
Great value modern “drivers car” BMW. It’s a very balanced, fun, engaging car. It takes corners well enough with manageable body roll. It suffers from understeer and rear end hop. Both of which can be corrected. It’s also one of BMWs last hydraulic power steering models. 0-60 happens in 5.5 seconds with a perfect launch and quick shifting auto. The N51/52 is a good powerplant, but don’t expect forum advice on modifying it because they all repeat, “just sell it and buy a 135i.” Sep 06, 2021
by Jamal M
Jun 04, 2021
Super car performance under $20K.
What more could One ask for?Jun 04, 2021
by Henry R
Aug 26, 2020
This car is a great riding car clean interior and body needs a great detailing job and waxing she drives welll and I’m going to buy it Thanks so muchAug 26, 2020
by David L
Dec 15, 2014
great suspension and get up and go with gas saving potential, just lack of room in the back seat for anything. Not baby friendly but other than that this is a nice car that i can use to commute back and forth to work in, just make sure you have a sedan in the grage for more people to take with you.Dec 15, 2014
by Gerhard G
Jul 03, 2014
This car is a head turner and fast. The only thing I don't like about is the gas mileage and small back seat. Would still purchase this all over again if given the chance. I'm in love with a car once again.Jul 03, 2014
by Anonymous
Jan 23, 2013
This car is clearly in the BMW family with 100% of the pedigree - but a much better price point. It is compact, yet has exceptional cargo capacity. It drives like a powerful BMW, and yet is a great first car for a young person to own. I love this car.Jan 23, 2013
by RL S
Mar 02, 2012
I bought the 128 to drive to work every day. I wanted something with a solid mix of comfort, reliability, safety, economy, simplicity, and importantly, fun.
At my salesman's recommendation, I picked the car up at BMW's South Carolina Performance Center. You supply the transportation, BMW puts you up in a nice hotel and you spend a day driving on their track, touring their factory where they make their SUV/SAV's , and visit the museum. It finishes with you taking delivery of your new car. I'd come in from Virginia, but there were folks from as far away as California who were going to drive cross-country in their new car. Fantastic experience...you come away with a new appreciation for BMW, its people, and the people who buy them. If you buy a new Bimmer, you must choose this option.
Given expectations, the 128 is a perfect little machine for getting to work and running errands. Having grown up in Europe surrounded by little sedans that could put a smile on a driver's face (Cortina, Taunus, and of course Bimmers), the 128 continues the spirit of those machines in modern form.Mar 02, 2012
by Andrew C
Jan 10, 2012
I have the new 1m Coupe. The car is everything you find with a bmw. I cant complain about anything at the moment but im only had it two weeks. The car is 350Bhp which is quick enough for what i need.
All in all a good car upto now. Jan 10, 2012
by WillPWR W
Nov 05, 2011
Since 2008, BMW finally introduced the smallest car of their family, the E82 (coupe) and E88 (cabriolet) one series, into the US. There're some minor facelifts of the 2011 model compared to the 2010 and the 135i got the upgraded Inline-6, N55B30 twin-turbo engine, with the same power output of 300/5800 hp and 300/1300 tq, with a better fuel efficiency. With it's compact size, great suspension, and the 7-speed double-clutch transmission, this baby-BMW packs in so much fun factor that it's probably one of the most fun cars to drive, albeit its small size. Overall, this is a great little car to drive around with a better practicality compared to other similar sports cars such as the 370Z or the Porsche Boxter because you can actually seat 2 adults in the back and you have a reasonable amount of trunk space. If you can sacrifice a little ride comfort for lots of fun and spirited driving, this is the small coupe you'd want in your garage.Nov 05, 2011
by Al F
Nov 01, 2011
Great performance in a small package! Lots of torque from the twin
turbo 3 liter I6, 7 speed DCT is smooth and great for city driving. Roomy
interior for a compact coupe, well appointed. Brakes are over the top, stop
NOW! Nov 01, 2011
by Felix L
Sep 26, 2011
I will write the review later. It's a nice decent car, if don't care about
power. It's have enough power for day to day regular commute traffic. If
you want power, I suggest you get a 130i, for good power.Sep 26, 2011
by Simon W
Nov 16, 2010
Great car, had it 4 months, but for the wife !! Sporty, good looks pleasure to drive. Had the M-Sport wheels that are a mare to clean, apart from that cant fault it.Colou choice is critical with these - I went for white, red leather and black hood - awesomeNov 16, 2010
by Hatem H
Oct 08, 2010
speedy
no need to repair
great style
big car its the best its so cool and nice comfortable yes it is it is fast and
quick
and cheap
it is good for races very nice car its fun to drive itOct 08, 2010
by Gunìt S
Aug 09, 2010
i like it but its very small and its not faster than Ferrari .it has only 2 seats.it is very
cool.its brakes are very nice.it is very costly.i feel very wealthy when i drive it .it is
very powerful.its suspension is very nice.Aug 09, 2010
by Yazan I
Jul 17, 2010
i want it very much and i got it it is nice every body have to get one likme this and costumise it and go drifting with it is the best thing and tyhen no one will own the road accept u with ur BMW 135Jul 17, 2010
What users have asked
What kind of performance booster kits best works for a bmw
I own a 2011 bmw 128i and would like to make it faster, I just want to know if a turbo charger or supercharger best fits and what else I should do to it to work if possible at all.
63 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2011 BMW 1 Series?Compare this car
2011 BMW 1 Series Pricing
Original MSRP
$29,450 to $40,650Price range
$11,756 to $15,202Average price on CG
$12,266YoY price change
$12,659 to $12,266Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: jack · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio · XM or Sirius satellite radio · Total Number of Speakers: 10
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.8 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: wood · Interior accents: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: door pockets · Sunshade: windshield · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.23
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Warnings and reminders: lamp failure
Lights
Headlights: self-leveling · Tail and brake lights: LED · Taillights: adaptive
Mirrors
Auto-dimming mirrors: rearview · Exterior mirrors: heated
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport · Heated: front seats · Passenger seat manual adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lateral links · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: BMW Assist
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · USB auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · HD radio · XM or Sirius satellite radio · Total Number of Speakers: 10
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.8 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: front center · Center console trim: aluminium · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: wood · Interior accents: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Sunshade: side window · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.23
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Warnings and reminders: low oil pressure
Lights
Headlight cleaners: heated · Headlights: Xenon · Tail and brake lights: LED · Taillights: adaptive
Mirrors
Auto-dimming mirrors: rearview · Exterior mirrors: heated
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport · Heated: mulitlevel · Passenger seat manual adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lateral links · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: BMW Assist
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: jack · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 10
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 13.3 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Center console trim: aluminium · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: wood · Interior accents: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power steering: Servotronic · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.08
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: cornering · Tail and brake lights: LED · Taillights: adaptive
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: auto-dimming
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lateral links · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Telematics
Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: BMW Assist
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · IPod auxiliary audio input · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · Total Number of Speakers: 10
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 13.3 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 12.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Center console trim: wood · Dash trim: wood · Door sill trim: aluminum · Door trim: wood · Interior accents: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cupholders: front · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power steering: speed-proportional · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: paddle shifter · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.08
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Warnings and reminders: low oil pressure
Lights
Headlights: automatic high beam dimmer · Tail and brake lights: LED · Taillights: adaptive
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Convertible roof: soft top · Moonroof: one-touch open/close
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport · Heated: mulitlevel · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leatherette
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lateral links · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: hard drive navigation system · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth · Satellite communications: BMW Assist
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing