4 minute read
BMW 128ti
BMW’s 128ti is looking to deliver lightweight performance but Jack Evans wants to know if it can rival key hot-hatch competitors.
WHAT IS IT?
The 128ti is focused on that link between driver and machine while being targeted at a rather well-known name in the business – Volkswagen’s Golf GTI.
WHAT’S NEW?
The change to front-driven wheels has caused quite a stir, while the performance-orientated M135i’s all-wheel-drive setup represents quite the departure from the norm. It’s ditched the four-wheel-drive layout but retains its 2.0-litre turbo plus firmer anti-roll bars and mounts.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
BMW has fiddled with the traction control system to ensure all the power can be put to the road. There’s no manual gearbox option, however, just BMW’s go-to eight-speed automatic.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The 128ti picks up speed remarkably, with a small amount of disruption sensed through the wheel as all that power gets sent to the front wheels. It’s not distracting but adds to the excitable character you get from the car in general. The steering is pleasantly weighted too while the suspension, though firm, does well to deal with the worst of the lumps and bumps on the road. It’s exciting to drive but also impressively settled on motorway stretches.
HOW DOES IT LOOK?
The 1 Series caused a bit of a commotion when first launched, but given BMW’s recent efforts it looks remarkably undercover these days. The ti gets some special treatment, too, with a distinct lack of chrome touches replaced by gloss black accents. The 18-inch wheels are unique to the model, too.
There are go-faster red highlights alongside matching red ti badging at the rear wheelarch sections. The front air intakes receive red ‘blades’, too. This is no Honda Civic Type R when it comes to wild hot-hatch styling, but the 128ti’s design is distinctive enough to separate it from the crowd. It’s an attractive thing indeed without being too gaudy.
Under the bonnet
The 128ti uses a 2.0-litre turbo engine and pumps out 261bhp and 400Nm of torque.
THE KNOWLEDGE
BMW 128ti
Price (as tested): £35,480
Engine: 2.0-litre
turbocharged petrol
Power:
261bhp
Torque: 400Nm
Max speed:
155mph
O-60mph:
5.9 seconds
MPG (combined):
44.1-46.3
Emissions:
148-139g/km CO2
seats are extremely figure-hugging but have controllable bolsters, while the steering wheel remains slightly too thick to us – but this is a common trait across the BMW range. That said, it’s peppered with useful controls that are convenient and easy to use.
Furthering the classic hot-hatch requirement, the 128ti is practical, too. There’s 380 litres of boot space, for instance, rising to 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded flat. It’s slightly more than the 374 litres of space you’ll find in the Golf GTI, in fact.
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
Prices for the BMW 128ti start from £31,875 and for that you get a comprehensive range of standard equipment. Highlights include an M Sport suspension setup plus aerodynamic styling package as well as heated sport seats, multi-function steering wheel and automatic air conditioning. A 10.25-inch infotainment screen is included too, incorporating media and navigation functions as well as Apple CarPlay.
Our car also had a few choice optional extras, chief of which was the technology pack for £1,500. This added adaptive LED headlights, head-up display and wireless phone charging.
In truth, you could probably just about live without these extras, but the technology pack’s price is competitive and does bring a lot of kit for the money.
WHAT DO THE PRESS THINK?
Top Gear said: ‘BMW’s made a rival to the Golf GTI – and quite possibly beaten it.’ Evo said: ‘BMW’s first front-wheel drive hot hatch isn’t only good, we think it will have a Golf GTI beat.’
WHAT DO WE THINK?
BMW has resisted the weight of change with the 128ti. It’s a refreshing take on the hot hatch, bolstered by the firm’s technical know-how, which makes this car not just an exciting prospect on paper but one backed by sound on-road dynamics.
Whereas the more powerful M135i can sometimes feel a touch heavy, the 128ti is pleasingly light, agile and – most importantly – fun.
However, this is a car that can be enjoyed day in, day out thanks to its refinement when you’re not on twisty, open roads. Should the Golf GTI be scared? Absolutely.
Inside
The cabin has a high-end feel with great build quality and a high level of standard equipment.
The steering is well weighted while the suspension setup deals well with bumpy UK roads.
Driving TARGET BUYERS:
Those who want a lightweight, nimble and exciting performance 1 Series.
THE RIVALS:
Volkswagen Golf GTI, Hyundai i30N, Renault Megane R.S.
KEY SELLING POINTS:
1. Involving handling. 2.Well-made cabin. 3.High level of standard equipment.
