Just when the world was thinking that we had seen the last of adventurous new cars, along come BMW, once again, to prove the world wrong. With all the new crossovers and sport utility vehicles around it is good to know that a car maker still thinks about the driver and that is the case with the new BMW 128ti; a hatchback with added performance.
Turismo Internazionale
It has been over a decade since the legendary ‘ti’ badge appeared on a BMW. Now it’s back with the BMW 128ti. This car is all about exceptional driving enjoyment. It has the M-Sport specification as standard marking it out as a performance model.
The Drive
A change from BMW tradition is that this car is front-wheel-drive, but don’t be disappointed. This special model fulfils its sporting promise with such features as a Torsen limited-slip differential, specifically-tuned and lowered M-Sport suspension, augmented by an optimised eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission driving a 2.0L, 265bhp engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.
The BMW 128ti can sprint from 0-62mph (100kph) in just 6.1 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 155mph. Despite this, the 128ti returns combined fuel consumption of over 40mpg, depending of course upon the driver, yet emits only 148-139g/km of CO² thus meeting the stringent Euro 6d exhaust standard. Active Sound Design delivers aural treats in the cabin too, without annoying the neighbours.
With an advanced drivetrain that includes the anti-roll bars and brakes as fitted to the flagship BMW M135i xDrive, it also features a sporty exterior and driver-focused interior that boasts exclusive details to distinguish it from other BMW 1 Series variants.
About The LSD
Limited slip differentials (LSD) make all the difference to performance driving and it is automatic. As well as increasing traction, agility and stability, the limited-slip differential also gives the car excellent cornering ability. If the inside wheel loses grip while powering through a bend and the driver accelerates at the same time, the limited-slip differential directs more torque to the wheel with greater grip, thereby preventing wheel slip and enhancing traction and agility. This is a tried and tested system that inspires confidence in the car, making front-wheel understeer a thing of the past.
The Inside
The M-Sport seats are optionally available in perforated Dakota leather – in Black or in Magma Red with grey accents. If the latter is chosen, the contrast stitching and ‘ti’ badge are in grey and the floor mats have stitching in the BMW M colours. It’s these little touches that make this BMW stand out from other ordinary hatchbacks. Folding mirrors, heated seats and cabin ambient lighting are also included as standard.
The infotainment features, we learn, in the 128ti include BMW’s Operating System 7.0 and are accessed via a display screen of up to 10.25”, optionally with the BMW Live Cockpit Professional set-up. Gesture control is also available and a 9.2” Head-Up Display can also be specified as options. The boot (trunk) has a capacity of 380 litres, rising to 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded down. Electric tailgate operation is also optionally available. The new BMW 128ti is due for launch in November this year and will be priced from a base of £32,995 in the UK.
The BMW 128ti is a lightweight, convenient hatchback that still delivers on driving pleasure. Please contact us here at MHH International about this car or any BMW model.
