BMW 128ti buying guide
What is the BMW 128ti trim level?
The 128ti sits above the Sport and M Sport trims, and below the M135i in the 1 Series hierarchy. It’s set apart from the rest by eye-catching red accents on the front bumper and side skirts, plus red brake calipers and exclusive ‘ti’ stickers in front of the rear wheels. It’s instantly recognisable to hot hatch enthusiasts, although you can specify to delete the red bits and badging for no extra cost if you’d rather be subtle.
Standard equipment includes sporty lowered suspension, heated sports seats, DAB radio, parking sensors at each end, LED headlights and cruise control. Cars with the Pro pack get bigger wheels and a Harman Kardon sound system, while the Technology Pack includes upgraded headlights, wireless phone charging, high-beam assist, self-parking ability and a head-up display.
BMW 128ti interior and technology
The 128ti gets a host of racy trimmings inside that lift it above a standard 1 Series. There’s a red centre line in the front seats and red stitching throughout, plus a ‘ti’ emblem on the centre armrest. There’s no mistaking this for a 118d.
Otherwise, the tech is just as impressive as in any other 1 Series. The slick digital dials and info-heavy touchscreen are fitted as standard, while the materials feel premium and hard-wearing.
BMW 128ti boot space and dimensions
The 128ti doesn’t suffer any losses in practicality compared to lesser 1 Series models, so you get a competitive 380 litres to fill. That exactly matches the Golf GTI’s boot space, although the Golf’s squarer boot could prove useful for suitcases and big bags. Measuring 4.3 metres long, the 1 Series is roughly as big as most of its rivals, and should be easy to park.
BMW 128ti engine range explained
BMW 128ti 2.0 petrol
The BMW 128ti gets its own exclusive engine, which isn’t used in other 1 Series models. It’s a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol with 265hp, and enables a 0-62mph sprint of a whisker over six seconds. It’s not quite as fast as the 306hp, four-wheel-drive M135i, but still feels rapid and exciting. A standard-fit limited-slip differential helps haul the 128Ti out of tight corners.
