2011 BMW 1 Series: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2011 BMW 1 Series is the arrival of the limited-production 1 Series M Coupe, a new 335-hp performance flagship. The regular models receive lighter updates, so this is not a full redesign.
About the 2011 BMW 1 Series
First-generation U.S. 1 Series coupe/convertible (E82/E88), late-cycle year; 128i and 135i are just before the 2012 styling update, and the 1 Series M Coupe debuts this year.
BMW markets the 1 Series as a compact, driver-focused coupe or convertible that distills classic BMW traits into a smaller package: rear-wheel drive, near-50/50 balance, straight-six power, and a cockpit built around the driver. Its core appeal is giving shoppers a more tossable, more intimate BMW than a 3 Series, while still offering real everyday usability and premium materials.
The 128i is the calmer, everyday model, pairing rear-wheel drive with a 230-hp six-cylinder engine in coupe or convertible form. The 135i adds a 300-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, sport-tuned suspension, stronger brakes, and adaptive xenon headlights. At the top, the coupe-only 1 Series M uses a 335-hp twin-turbo six, a six-speed manual transmission, a locking rear differential, and specialized M suspension and brakes.
What changed, by category
2011 BMW 1 Series specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0L | 6-Cyl, 3.0 Liter / 6-Cyl, SULEV, 3.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0L |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Auto 6-Spd w/OD & Stptrnc | Automatic, 7-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 28 mpg | 27–28 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 230 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft | 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 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Retractable Soft Top | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 BMW 1 Series?
The biggest change is the debut of the limited-production 1 Series M Coupe. It becomes the lineup's performance flagship with 335 hp, a six-speed manual transmission, widened bodywork, and specialized M suspension and brakes.
What changed on the 2011 BMW 135i?
The 2011 BMW 135i gets BMW's newer N55 turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. It retains its 300-hp rating while improving response and efficiency compared with the previous twin-turbo engine.
Was the 2011 BMW 1 Series redesigned?
No, the 2011 BMW 1 Series was not redesigned. The 128i and 135i remain part of the first-generation coupe and convertible family, while the new 1 Series M Coupe accounts for the year's most substantial changes.
How is the 2011 BMW 1 Series M different from the regular models?
The 2011 BMW 1 Series M is a more focused performance model with a 335-hp twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, a six-speed manual transmission, a locking rear differential, wider bodywork, and specialized M suspension and brakes.
Did the 2011 BMW 1 Series gain any standard equipment?
Yes, USB ports and leather seats become standard across the 2011 BMW 1 Series lineup. There is no broader infotainment or safety-system update for the year.