2008 BMW 135i

BMW's new 1 Series really is just that-the only one in its class. We recently took a 2008 135i out for numbers testing, track hot laps, and some real-world miles to see how it performed, and as we suspected, the small 2+2 BMW coupe scored high with editors and turned out some impressive numbers.

While BMW claims the 135i sprints to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, our test machine consistently ripped off 4.7-second runs, easily besting the factory estimate, and buzzed through the quarter mile in 13.3 seconds at 105.6 mph. Under braking, the 135i's six-piston front brakes, and wide, sticky tires haul it to rest from 60 mph in an impressive 102 feet, and the 1's average lateral acceleration checked in at 0.94 g.

The 135i's M-sport wheel is thick and meaty like Thanksgiving gravy and returns direct, seemingly telepathic sensations. Though our tester weighed 3425 pounds, the 135i feels like it carries more mass and grip during laps at Reno Fernley Raceway, where we put it through its paces. In high-g corners, the car leans, but returns stunning traction and a balanced, weighty feel. This is the most surprising revelation about the 135i: Despite the rear-drive layout and 300 pound-feet on tap, it resists all manner of sliding shenanigans.

For those who have a problem trusting sensors, differentials, and an ECU, there's always the BMW's traditional feel. No fancy transmission here, just a plain-Jane, automatic augmented with paddle shifters. And BMW may have a point: With an engine and chassis so responsive, no fancy transmission is needed. Step on it and the 135i goes.

Says editor at large Arthur St. Antoine, "I'm blown away by this little stealth fighter. I can't recall another car that's been more surprising to drive; I expected the 135i to offer solid performance, but it's breathtakingly quick. Refined, too-it's a bona-fide BMW. Direct and communicative steering feel, bags of grip. An absolute blast to drive."

On the road, the 135i delivers fine motoring without compromise. BMW says the torque sweet spot range is 1400-5500 rpm, but in real driving situations, it feels even broader than that. The 135i's interior and ride quality first rate and on par with its stablemates, though space is definitely at a premium.

The only major strike against the BMW is its high cost. Though a stripper 135i starts at $35,675, ours came in over $10,000 more with fancy bits like iDrive navigation ($2100), automatic transmission ($1275), satellite radio ($595), metallic paint ($475) and a $400 iPod/USB adaptor. You can get a nicely equipped 335i coupe for that much.

If you're interested in everyday driveability and can keep the cost down, the 135i really is the one.