BMW previews the 2012 1-Series.
Following the long-awaited news of BMW’s 1-Series M Coupe, the Bavarian maker reveals it is making some other notable changes to the 2012 1-Series line-up.
Both the coupe and convertible versions of BMW’s smallest offerings will undergo some tweaking for the next model-year, ranging from the subtle – new horizontal LED eyebrows – to the significant – a switch in engines on the 135 model.
The N55, a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, will make 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. And you’ll be able to get it mated to a 7-speed double-clutch gearbox, as well as the 6-speed manual now used in the 1-Series. With either gearbox look for 0 to 60 times of around 5 seconds with the coupe and just under 5.5 seconds with the convertible.
The base 1-Series will continue using BMW’s naturally-aspirated, 3.0-liter powerplant, rated at 230 hp and 200 lb-ft.
Along with the slight revisions to the front end, the 2012 BMW 1-Series will look a bit more like the rest of the German maker’s line-up, with the addition of LED running lamps.
Visual changes to the 2012 BMW 1-Series are modest, and include new LED running lamps.
One of the more innovative additions for 2012 is the use of the BMW Air Curtain, which is designed to reduce turbulence by the wheel arches, improving aerodynamics and, we would anticipate, fuel economy.
Of course, the big news for 2012 is the launch of the eagerly-awaited BMW 1-Series M Coupe, which will deliver 335 horsepower out of its twin-turbo six and launch to 60 in the mid-four second range. For a closer look, Click Here.
The strong Euro could lead BMW to tweak pricing on the 2012 1-Series, though we probably won’t hear much about that – or get formal fuel economy numbers – until closer to next spring, when the 2012 BMW 1-Series models reach U.S. showrooms. Currently, the 128i carries a base price of $29,450, while the 135i goes for $36,350.