Why the BMW 128ti is the 1 Series you might want to have

Reviving the “ti” badge’s legacy, the BMW 128ti will come back carrying its long and iconic history. And here are some reasons why the BMW 128ti is the 1 Series you might want to have.

The “ti” name first appeared with the “Neue Klasse” models fifty years ago. These models include the BMW 1800 TI, 2002 TI or the 1802 TI, and 2002 TI. And in 1964, iconic racer Hubert Hahne took the “TI” badge to fame. He finished the European Touring Car Championship with 14 wins of 16 starts behind the 1800 TI. Therefore, the new BMW 128ti will carry this legendary history of the “ti” name and revive its popularity.

The upcoming 128ti sits below the top-class BMW M135i xDrive. Nevertheless, there are reasons why the BMW 128ti is the more fun car to have. First, it weighs 80 kg lighter than the M135i xDrive. With its front-wheel-drive platform, the lighter weight makes it more exciting to drive around. BMW also tuned the steering for the 128ti’s structure for a more engaging drive.

Second, the BMW 128ti also has an impressive engine producing ample power and torque. Under the hood, it has a powerful 2-liter engine four-cylinder with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. This engine produces a power output of 265 bhp and 400Nm of torque. It reaches 100 km/h within 6.1 seconds from a standstill. On the other hand, M135i gets to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The M135i xDrive has 306 HP and 450 Nm of torque from a 2-liter 4-cylinder. Obviously, the numbers are not that different.

Third, the upcoming 128ti also wears M Sport brakes, like the M135i. It will have four-piston monoblock calipers upfront. And at the rear, floating single-piston calipers will complete its sporty aura. The 128ti will have the calibers in red, distinguishing it from the blue calipers of the M135i.

Lastly, BMW made the new 128ti as an entry into a new iconic segment. The BMW 128ti will arrive as a competitor to the legendary Volkswagen Gold GTI. That fact alone says a lot about what BMW did to this new-gen “ti” bearer. Changes to the chassis and driving dynamics of this new 128ti are clear signs of its iconic return.