BMW Group Canada has announced that the BMW 1 Series Coupe will debut in Canada in 2008. The latest variant in the 1 Series is designed to sport striking styling cues and auto parts to make it the ultimate temptress for 2008.
The new BMW 128i and 135i Coupes will enter the premium compact segment in Canada. The BMW 128i Coupe will be powered by the Bavarian automaker's latest generation 3.0-liter inline 6-cyinder Valvetronic engine producing 230 horsepower and 200 pound feet of torque. The lightweight magnesium/aluminum engine is designed to provide the BMW 128i Coupe with scintillating performance without uncompromising unmatched levels of fuel economy.
Meanwhile, the BMW 135i Coupe will sport a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with high-precision injection, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooler. The Coupes' car parts are upgraded to produce better output compared with BMW E46 parts.
Winner of the 2007 International Engine of the Year award, the engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 pound feet of torque from as low as 1,400 rpm, to provide superb performance and high fuel efficiency. In European specification, the BMW 135i Coupe accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds.
The latest variant in the successful BMW 1 Series model range features BMW's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) includes a Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function that offers electronic intervention to avoid loss of vehicle control, but at a higher threshold before activation. Active Steering, a variable ratio steering system exclusive to the Bavarian automaker, is available as an option.
BMW said the DSC system on the 135i Coupe is designed specifically for performance-oriented driving. The accelerator pedal has a quicker response rate and electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a differential lock for powerful acceleration in turns.
The Coupe also gets an iDrive control system like its larger siblings. This gives the driver control over secondary and comfort functions like communication, air conditioning, entertainment and navigation in one place. This latest version of iDrive is equipped with six programmable memory keys that allow the driver to manipulate functions that are often used.
The latest version of iDrive, optional on the BMW 1 Series Coupe, is equipped with six Programmable Memory Keys and touch-sensitive sensors. Keeping pace with modern audio and communication technology, the 1 Series Coupe is equipped with BMW Assist with Bluetooth Wireless Technology. For simple and straightforward connection of an MP3 player, an Auxiliary input jack is also standard, and a USB port for direct control of an Apple iPod or other MP3 player is available as an option.
The 1 Series Coupe gets more enticing rear end styling than the hatchback variant, which was introduced in 2004. The 135i Coupe offers breath-taking performance and a more arresting aura. Features include an Aero kit for extra downforce at speed, better brake cooling and improved aesthetics while the sports suspension delivers higher traction and decreased body roll with 18-inch wheels and performance tyres. The sports suspension is mated to a high-performance brake system incorporating six-piston fixed calipers on the front and two-piston fixed calipers at the rear.
Safety-wise, the Coupe features six airbags, Head Protection System (HPS), crash-optimized seats with specially padded headrests and backrests, and LATCH attachments for child seats as standard features.
The new model goes into production later this year and will be available with a range of gasoline and diesel engines. BMW said the new car will reinvent the niche that its 2002 model created in the mid-1960s. Canadian availability is expected in the first half of 2008. Detailed specifications and pricing will be announced prior to the market launch.
