2012 BMW 128i Coupe, an Autoweek Drivers Log Car Review - AutoWeek
NEWS EDITOR GREG MIGLIORE: I can't wait to drive the 1-series M coupe after streaking around town in this 2012 BMW 128i. The tight chassis, weighted, responsive steering and athletic demeanor all are good signs for the performance version. I love the six-speed manual, which takes what could be a potentially boring little car and enlivens its spirit and that of the driver. It makes the pilot want to nail the throws and feel the interaction. I didn't really drive this thing hard, but it feels like it needs some hard cornering and intense maneuvers to really be at its best. The straight six is reasonably powerful for this application, and merging on to the freeway is easy and brisk if the driver wants to move with verve. I realize this is still a luxury-level BMW, but it seemed a little Spartan and the price a touch steep with a sticker of more than $36,000. Small cars can be premium and luxurious--no argument there. It just seems like this car commands its sticker because it has three certain letters on the badge. The car is Exhibit A in how a small coupe should handle and behave. The six-cylinder is strong and willing, meshed with a terrific six-speed gearbox with nice short throws. Greg sort of hit nail on the head in that the interior does have a rather Spartan feel, harking back to German cars from 20 or 30 years ago. Obviously it's more updated than that, but manual seats in a $36,000 car. Source: autoweek.com
