2010 BMW 1 Series: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 BMW 1 Series is mostly a carryover, with standard HD Radio on the 128i as the main change. Automatic high beams also joined the options list across the range.
About the 2010 BMW 1 Series
1st-generation U.S. 1 Series coupe/convertible (E82/E88), pre-refresh, third U.S. model year; last year before the 2011 update.
BMW positioned the 1 Series as a compact, rear-wheel-drive driver’s car that distilled the brand’s classic formula into a smaller two-door. Its main draw was simple and unusual for the class: six-cylinder power, balanced weight distribution, and a more playful feel than larger luxury coupes and convertibles. The coupe emphasized a tight, sporty four-seat layout, while the convertible added open-air fun without giving up the same rear-drive, performance-focused character.
The 128i is the more traditional choice, pairing a 230-hp six-cylinder engine with a compact rear-wheel-drive coupe or convertible body. The 135i is the performance-focused version, with a 300-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive xenon headlights, and more aggressive body details.
What changed, by category
2010 BMW 1 Series specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, 3.0 Liter / 6-Cyl, SULEV, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Steptronic / Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Steptronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 17–18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27–28 mpg | 25–26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 230 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 200 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 8–10 cu-ft | 8–10 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.3–32 in | 31.3–32 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Headlights | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| HID Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Wood Interior Trim | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2010 BMW 1 Series compared with the 2009 model?
The 2010 1 Series received only minor equipment updates. HD Radio became standard on the 128i, and automatic high beams were added to the options list across the lineup; the engines, transmissions, body styles, and rear-wheel-drive layout carried over.
Was the 2010 BMW 1 Series redesigned?
No, the 2010 BMW 1 Series was not redesigned. It remained the pre-refresh first-generation coupe and convertible, with no major styling, chassis, or suspension changes.
Did the 2010 BMW 1 Series get a new engine?
No, the 2010 engines carried over unchanged. The 128i retained its 230-hp 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, while the 135i retained its 300-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine.
Is the 2010 BMW 1 Series meaningfully different from the 2009 model?
No, the differences are small. The main reasons to favor a 2010 are the 128i’s standard HD Radio and the addition of optional automatic high beams across the range.
Did the 2010 BMW 1 Series keep a manual transmission?
Yes, both the 128i and 135i kept a six-speed manual transmission for 2010. A six-speed automatic was also offered, with no transmission changes from 2009.