During the Industry Pool at the Nürburgring I have filmed the 2021 BMW 128 ti testing on track.

The 2021 BMW 128ti is a performance-oriented version of the third-generation (F40) 1 Series. The 2021 128ti slots between the 120i and the M135i xDrive models in terms of equipment and performance. It borrows some styling features from the range-topping M135i xDrive, but its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is detuned from 302 to 261 horsepower. It’s also a rear-wheel-drive model with no option for an AWD system.

More importantly, the 128ti revives the iconic "ti" badge that BMW first introduced in the 1960s and used most recently in 2004.

Styling-wise, the 128i looks a lot like the range-topping M135i xDrive. It features a similar front bumper with a wide bumper vent and vertical air curtains, as well as a black kidney grille. But while it features the gloss-black finish of the M135i, the grille is far from identical. Specifically, it doesn’t borrow the unique design of the M-spec model, featuring the regular vertical slats instead. To set it apart from other 1 Series models, BMW added red accents around the vertical air curtains.

There are no red accents around back, but the black exhaust pipes are larger than the regular 1 Series, so you’ll know it’s a special model.

If you like the red accents, which are actually very cool, even when compared to the blacked-out M135 model, you should know that their not available on all body colors. If you opt for the flashy Melbourne Red or Misano Blue paint, the red accents in the front become black, while the side sills and "ti" decals are changed to body color. If you like a more subdued look, you have the option to delete all contrasting features, as well as the "ti" decals.

There’s red stitching on the beefed-up bolsters and the headrests, as well as a red pattern on the seatbacks. The armrests, the door panels the dashboard, and the steering wheel also include red contrast stitching and there’s also a red "ti" badge stitched into the center armrest. Everything else remains similar to lower trims like the 120i, but you have access to a long list of options like with any other 1 Series model.

Specifically, the turbocharged four-banger generates 261 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, which places the 128ti right between the 120i and the M135i xDrive. That’s 85 horsepower more than the 120i model. Compared to the M135i xDrive, the 128ti falls behind by 41 horses and 37 pound-feet of twist, which isn’t all that much. However, while the M135i comes with an xDrive AWD system as standard, the 128ti is available with front-wheel drive only, which makes a big different on the performance front.

Down to the numbers, the 128ti hits 62 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is a notable 1.3 seconds slower than the M135i xDrive. But that’s also a full second quicker than the 120i trim, so you get to beat that model on the drag strip. Top speed is limited to 155 mph, identical to the M135 xDrive.

On top of being more powerful than other 1 Series models, the 128ti is also sportier thanks to a bunch of upgrades borrowed from the M135i xDrive. The hatchback is fitted with beefed-up anti-roll bars and stiffer springs and shocks, but it also comes with a Torsen mechanical limited-slip differential for the front axle. The 18-inch wheels can be wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires at no extra cost for enhanced grip on the race track.

U.S. pricing information is not yet available, but the new hatchback starts from €41,574 in Germany
That’s a €7,262 premium over the 120i, but a solid €6,678 less than the M135i xDrive. Compared to the Volkswagen Golf GTI, priced from €37,607, the BMW 128ti commands a €3,967 premium. The Bimmer is also notably more expensive than the Focus ST, which retails from €30,674. The 128i is almost €11,000 more expensive.

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*Michael - Automotive Mike

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