DriveTech

Cars at a Glance
2008 BMW 128i

My first impression of the 2008 BMW 128i was that this is nothing more than a Mini Cooper in a suit. The One Series is not new in Europe but when it hit our coast it really got the car enthusiast all fired up. Two models to choose from the 128i and the 135i.
The One Series was inspired by the 2002 BMW four passenger two door coupe from the 60's with today's refinement this could be the best BMW for the money. As I mentioned you get two models with two engines and transmissions to choose from. The 128i (My tester) was the smaller 3.0-liter inline six cylinder producing 230 horsepower and 200 pound foot of torque. Fuel mileage for the smaller engine is 19 city and 28 on the open road. You have your choice of a 6-speed manual or a six speed automatic transmission. I would have preferred the manual transmission but there was none available so I opted for the six speed automatic which worked just fine in automatic and manual mode.
The 128i had typical BMW seats and interior with a touch of Gray Popular wood that really made the Beemer stand out.
Getting out on the road is what BMW is all about, not only can you get on the freeway smartly but the curvy roads in the back hills just love having you and your BMW out there. Visibility was perfect, brakes were fantastic. Seats were power operated with memory for the driver, auto dimming interior and exterior lighting, pretty cool. Lumbar support, digital compass mirror, ambient light package, auto dimming rear view mirror, universal garage opener, and BMW assist all part of the Premium Package that came with my tester.
The 128i was painted a brilliant Sedona Red Metallic with Black Boston leather interior. Other options added to the 128i were heated seats, the chrome package was included but the Steptronic automatic transmission was an additional $1,275 which pushed the price of the 128i up from its base price of $28,600 to $35,225 which included a $775 destination charge.
I must tell you I have always had a love affair with BMW's and this pocket rocket just adds to the fun. I haven't driven the 135i as yet but will soon, stay tuned.
My only negatives is the fuel mileage, I would like to see 30 plus miles per gallon, but who wouldn't.
With pricing like this you might want to take a ride over to Brecht BMW in the Escondido Auto Park and see if they can put you behind the wheel of a 128i or a 135i. They are a great bunch over there whether it is sales, parts or service no one does it better!

Stay tuned for another hot set of wheels coming soon!