2009 BMW 1 Series: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
For 2009, the BMW 1 Series adds the 128i and 135i trims. Beyond those lineup additions, there are no major changes to standard styling, safety, technology, or chassis hardware.
About the 2009 BMW 1 Series
E82 coupe / E88 convertible, first U.S. generation, second model year for the U.S. 1 Series range.
BMW positioned the 1 Series as a compact, driver-focused premium car that distilled the brand’s traditional formula into a smaller package: rear-wheel drive, six-cylinder power, balanced handling, and seating for four. Period BMW materials repeatedly tied it to the spirit of the classic BMW 2002, emphasizing agility, compact size, and an engaging feel over family space. Against rivals, its biggest differentiators were its rear-drive layout and true inline-six engines in both trims.
The 2009 1 Series is a compact, rear-wheel-drive four-seater sold as a coupe or convertible. The 128i is the more relaxed version, with a 230-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, while the performance-focused 135i has a 300-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, a sport suspension, xenon headlights, and a sport-styled body kit.
What changed, by category
2009 BMW 1 Series specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Steptronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 25–26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 230 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 200 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 8–10.1 cu-ft | 8–10.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.3–32 in | 31.3–32 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Headlights | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| HID Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 BMW 1 Series?
The biggest change is the addition of the 128i and 135i trims. Otherwise, 2009 is a quiet year without major lineup-wide revisions.
Is the 2009 BMW 1 Series a redesign?
No, the 2009 BMW 1 Series is not a redesign. It is the second model year of the first U.S. generation, using the E82 coupe and E88 convertible body styles.
How do the 2009 BMW 128i and 135i differ?
The 128i has a 230-hp six-cylinder engine and a more relaxed focus, while the 135i has a 300-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, sport suspension, xenon headlights, and a sport-styled body kit.
Did the 2009 BMW 1 Series receive new standard safety or technology features?
No, the 2009 BMW 1 Series received no significant lineup-wide changes to its standard safety or technology equipment.
Did the styling or chassis change for the 2009 BMW 1 Series?
No, the standard styling and chassis carried over without significant changes for 2009.