2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

  2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

   2012 BMW 1 Series Front Three Quarters

Though it's not immediately apparent, the BMW 1 Series has been refreshed for the 2012 model year. Starting with the obvious, the 128i Coupe and Convertible’s front fascia have lost the more conservative look of their predecessor. As the red Convertible pictured shows, the lower fascia is resculpted and the foglight housings have been redone. Tucked toward the outer edge of the foglight housings and barely visible in the photo are air ducts that are part of BMW’s Air Curtain feature, which was first introduced on the 1 Series M Coupe. Air Curtain is standard on all 2012 128i models and directs high-pressure air from the front end to the sides of the front wheels to help combat the natural turbulence generated by the wheels’ rapid rotation, all in the name of improved aerodynamic performance. Special Aero wheels will be up for order as well.

The 135i Coupe and Convertible appears to be mostly untouched on the exterior. The top-of-the-line 1 Series already comes with the M Aerodynamic Kit standard and doesn’t add Air Curtain. Additionally, fresh design accents have been implemented into the 128i and 135i headlights and taillights.

Inside, a Gloss White interior trim is the latest option for the 2012 model year and certain switches and controls have been refined for a better look and feel.

The 128i remains powered by the 3.0-liter inline-six with 230 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque; the 135i puts the turbocharged, 3.0-liter inline-six with 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque to good use. A six-speed manual transmission is the norm, but a six-speed automatic (128i) and seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission (135i) are available too.

The 2012 1 Series Coupe and Convertible will go on sale Spring 2011.