Great review! However, don't assume that you will get Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres if you tick the performance tyre option. I did, and I got Pirelli P Zeros. BMW will supply from a range of performance tyres for that option, at least that's the case in the UK. Also, the Golf GTI has 381 litres of boot space, so one litre more than the 128ti. The 128ti has way more torque steer than the VW. I switched a mk 7.5 GTI Performance DSG for a 128ti in late June, and the difference was noticeable immediately, and even at modest speeds and throttle inputs. Oddly, in the UK we get more power and torque than the Australian version (265ps and 400nm), but we don't get the bucket seats with electric adjustment. I agree about the ride comfort. Firmer than my old GTI, but more refined and better at keeping hard bangs from the rear out of the cabin over potholes. Also agree on the steering, I have set mine to comfort for all modes and it is weightier than the Golf, but very communicative. Overall, the 128ti feels like a significantly more premium car than the mk 7.5 GTI, from the cabin materials, to the engine refinement and ride quality. I ruled out the mk 8 GTI based on the cabin quality and touchscreen/haptic button hell that confronted me when I sat in one. I don't regret switching to BMW.
''Drivers Car'' or ''Fashion Statement'' New cars are like automatic washing machines, wheres the rumble and tumble, smell of petrol and rubber, suck of the carb and burble of the pipes!! I'm getting old.
Good question, Dean - and BMW Australia has been very vague about this, not even confirming whether it's the annoying 'Hot climate' issue that has seen Audi/VW detune their engines for Australia.
@@jezspinks426 it appears to be the same in Latin America. All the reviews from Colombia etc have the same figures as the Australian car. However, they get an all chrome grill, which I don't think suits the car as much as the gloss black you get in Australia and we get in Europe.
I have asked this question too....I dont think they can say its the hot climate issue as its the same engine in the heavier M135iXdrive in a hotter tune than the 128ti. Other reason I heard was to not cannibalise sales from other models or to fill the gaps in the range....When I looked at what other markets get with the 195kw tune 128ti there is nothing close at all??...will have to wait and see when they make an official statement!
Jez not sure when you drove mk8 GTI however whilst I’m glad this car exits its a BMW Mini platform yet I just don’t see any innovation and the styling is naff - mk8 GTI looks Hugo Boss and it’s engine transmission dynamic combination is more engaging for the enthusiast and everyday driver although getting exxy like everything in ‘21
Have already driven the GTI Mk8 a couple of times, Malcolm, the most recent being virtually back to back with the 128ti. Increased cost for the Golf aside, the GTI is still an easy car to recommend. The BMW has the edge dynamically for us and its cabin that bit more convincing in ergonomics and quality. As for the styling, I don't mind it - though BMW has yet to really nail the front-end design of a 1 Series. Cheers, Jez.
The 128 is a solid feeling, comfortable car with a bit of performance. It feels too big to me for what it is. The M2 though is next level for performance and handling and although it’s a bigger car it doesn’t feel it…I find the Mazda MX5 more fun to drive than either. I think it’s the lightness and feeling of connectedness with the whole driving experience that makes the difference.
M2 is undoubtedly some of BMW's finest work in recent years, David - and as much as we're fans of the 128ti, we're glad the next-gen will remain RWD. And who doesn't love an MX-5!
@@jezspinks426 I completely agree. I initially ordered the new M3, but after I drove it I decided it wasn’t as engaging a driving experience as the M2. It’s a generation behind the current models and lacks some of the conveniences of the 128, but to me it’s all about the drive and the M2 seems to have that sorted.
@@davidwilliams6249 If you’re after a small, light cart, cayman 718 is better. So what did you ended up settled in? I have got new rs3 recently and it is more fun than previous model.
What a stupid comment. You need to understand that building a 1 series with a 6cyl is next to impossible with the new regulations. Without this new 1 series, which has a 4cyl, it would be impossible for BMW to make some of their high end cars. You know it’s bad when Porsche had to switch to a 4cyl for the majority of there 718 line up. New times have come and sadly we can no longer pack v10 and v12 in family sedans and suvs.
@@madrx2 you clearly have little sense for these sorts of things. Mass production of vehicles is the problem companies have to keep there emmisons down which essentially forces every company to make cars that have lower ones to balance it out. In BMW case they are trying this with hybrids and the smaller 4cyl models. The cars that you are referring to “the v12” are not produced on the same scale. Aston Martin had to make he cygnet to lower there emissions. The m3 would not have a 6cyl if it was not for the lower cyl and hybrid models in bmw. That’s why Mercedes for example said fuck it and is making there new c63 a 4cyl hybrid. Plus may I remind you that in the old bmw line up only the m135i and m140i had 6cyl. Everything else was a 4cyl and 3cyl. You are living in the past my friend
I love it, its so fun and agile. I pre-ordered it last year and got it in Feb this year. No regrets! Also like to mention, some dealers might have the 128ti with a shadow line trim (can't remember the exact wording), but the part above the headlights are black, giving a much more aggressive look then to what it already is. And yes, if you are going for it, make sure to tick the box for pilot sport 4 tyres!
Would not be surprised the 128ti is comprised from the Hyundai i30N underpinnings, based on the fact that BMWs ex top engineers from the Bmw M division are working for Hyundai at their N division........??
My 128ti and my wife’s X3 go down to 16c. They kept us cool in 30c weather last week. But, I know that is not a particularly hot day by Australian standards. European cars do have to cope with temps well into the 40s Celsius in Spain each year. It’s 40c today in Cordoba for example.
@@carljohn9337 I just gone one in the UK. Not giving it full beans yet, but it is not slow. And feels quicker than my previous mk 7.5 GTI Performance DSG already.
The Hyundai i30N eats all over both the 128ti and Golf GTI. Both in excitement and flair,but ALSO in standard equipment that you have to pay extra for in the Bimmer and VW.
If we were given a money-no-object choice between M2 and 128ti, it's a no-brainer to pick the M2. But after BMW got things a bit wrong with the M135i xDrive, they deserve some credit for the more affordable performance hatch.
Great review! However, don't assume that you will get Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres if you tick the performance tyre option. I did, and I got Pirelli P Zeros. BMW will supply from a range of performance tyres for that option, at least that's the case in the UK. Also, the Golf GTI has 381 litres of boot space, so one litre more than the 128ti. The 128ti has way more torque steer than the VW. I switched a mk 7.5 GTI Performance DSG for a 128ti in late June, and the difference was noticeable immediately, and even at modest speeds and throttle inputs. Oddly, in the UK we get more power and torque than the Australian version (265ps and 400nm), but we don't get the bucket seats with electric adjustment. I agree about the ride comfort. Firmer than my old GTI, but more refined and better at keeping hard bangs from the rear out of the cabin over potholes. Also agree on the steering, I have set mine to comfort for all modes and it is weightier than the Golf, but very communicative. Overall, the 128ti feels like a significantly more premium car than the mk 7.5 GTI, from the cabin materials, to the engine refinement and ride quality. I ruled out the mk 8 GTI based on the cabin quality and touchscreen/haptic button hell that confronted me when I sat in one. I don't regret switching to BMW.
I bought one of these today. Got the black with the red accents. Hopefully get it next week sometime..
Considering the mk8 GTI is pushing 60k it makes sense to look at 128ti now. I think bmw have landed a winner.
FWD Bimmer... don't know about that. Thanks for bringing the fish bowl along so we could ride with you.
''Drivers Car'' or ''Fashion Statement''
New cars are like automatic washing machines, wheres the rumble and tumble, smell of petrol and rubber, suck of the carb and burble of the pipes!!
I'm getting old.
Even though I'm not in the market for a car, I love all tests of sedans.
Really intrigued by this car. Love that BMW is playing at this end of the market and has fixed the shortcomings of the xDrive 135i
Why is the 128ti been de-tuned more than the European version of the same car?
Australia - 180kw/380Nm
Europe - 195kw/400Nm
Good question, Dean - and BMW Australia has been very vague about this, not even confirming whether it's the annoying 'Hot climate' issue that has seen Audi/VW detune their engines for Australia.
@@jezspinks426 it appears to be the same in Latin America. All the reviews from Colombia etc have the same figures as the Australian car. However, they get an all chrome grill, which I don't think suits the car as much as the gloss black you get in Australia and we get in Europe.
I have asked this question too....I dont think they can say its the hot climate issue as its the same engine in the heavier M135iXdrive in a hotter tune than the 128ti. Other reason I heard was to not cannibalise sales from other models or to fill the gaps in the range....When I looked at what other markets get with the 195kw tune 128ti there is nothing close at all??...will have to wait and see when they make an official statement!
Australian summers reach 45c + and it’s hot throughout the year compare to to Europe
Jez not sure when you drove mk8 GTI however whilst I’m glad this car exits its a BMW Mini platform yet I just don’t see any innovation and the styling is naff - mk8 GTI looks Hugo Boss and it’s engine transmission dynamic combination is more engaging for the enthusiast and everyday driver although getting exxy like everything in ‘21
Have already driven the GTI Mk8 a couple of times, Malcolm, the most recent being virtually back to back with the 128ti. Increased cost for the Golf aside, the GTI is still an easy car to recommend. The BMW has the edge dynamically for us and its cabin that bit more convincing in ergonomics and quality. As for the styling, I don't mind it - though BMW has yet to really nail the front-end design of a 1 Series. Cheers, Jez.
I'm really into this, I must admit - although I'd prefer a new M2!
The 128 is a solid feeling, comfortable car with a bit of performance. It feels too big to me for what it is. The M2 though is next level for performance and handling and although it’s a bigger car it doesn’t feel it…I find the Mazda MX5 more fun to drive than either. I think it’s the lightness and feeling of connectedness with the whole driving experience that makes the difference.
M2 is undoubtedly some of BMW's finest work in recent years, David - and as much as we're fans of the 128ti, we're glad the next-gen will remain RWD. And who doesn't love an MX-5!
@@jezspinks426 I completely agree. I initially ordered the new M3, but after I drove it I decided it wasn’t as engaging a driving experience as the M2. It’s a generation behind the current models and lacks some of the conveniences of the 128, but to me it’s all about the drive and the M2 seems to have that sorted.
@@davidwilliams6249 If you’re after a small, light cart, cayman 718 is better.
So what did you ended up settled in?
I have got new rs3 recently and it is more fun than previous model.
Member when the GTI was around $30k?
The 1 series died when they got rid of the 6cyl.
What a stupid comment. You need to understand that building a 1 series with a 6cyl is next to impossible with the new regulations. Without this new 1 series, which has a 4cyl, it would be impossible for BMW to make some of their high end cars. You know it’s bad when Porsche had to switch to a 4cyl for the majority of there 718 line up. New times have come and sadly we can no longer pack v10 and v12 in family sedans and suvs.
@@markoobradovic1825 utter nonsense is that why the m3 runs a turbo 6, and many cars still run v12's
@@madrx2 you clearly have little sense for these sorts of things. Mass production of vehicles is the problem companies have to keep there emmisons down which essentially forces every company to make cars that have lower ones to balance it out. In BMW case they are trying this with hybrids and the smaller 4cyl models. The cars that you are referring to “the v12” are not produced on the same scale. Aston Martin had to make he cygnet to lower there emissions. The m3 would not have a 6cyl if it was not for the lower cyl and hybrid models in bmw. That’s why Mercedes for example said fuck it and is making there new c63 a 4cyl hybrid. Plus may I remind you that in the old bmw line up only the m135i and m140i had 6cyl. Everything else was a 4cyl and 3cyl. You are living in the past my friend
@@markoobradovic1825 still doesn't change the fact new 1 series doesn't hold a candle to the previous generation.
Yes, the days of hot-hatches applying the 'big engine, small car' formula are sadly gone. At least new RS3 is sticking with the 5-cylinder.
Should I get one?
Verdict seems positive...
I love it, its so fun and agile. I pre-ordered it last year and got it in Feb this year. No regrets! Also like to mention, some dealers might have the 128ti with a shadow line trim (can't remember the exact wording), but the part above the headlights are black, giving a much more aggressive look then to what it already is. And yes, if you are going for it, make sure to tick the box for pilot sport 4 tyres!
Would not be surprised the 128ti is comprised from the Hyundai i30N underpinnings, based on the fact that BMWs ex top engineers from the Bmw M division are working for Hyundai at their N division........??
I question how cold the a/c is in European cars. Very important where I live.
My 128ti and my wife’s X3 go down to 16c. They kept us cool in 30c weather last week. But, I know that is not a particularly hot day by Australian standards. European cars do have to cope with temps well into the 40s Celsius in Spain each year. It’s 40c today in Cordoba for example.
Incorrect information, Golf GTI is 20hp down on the 128ti
Not in Australia, Carl - here GTI and 128ti both have 180kW/240bhp.
@@jezspinks426 ok my bad then 🤣 in U.K. 128ti has 265. feels as fast as 135i
Can understand how my accent would have confused you, Carl!
@@carljohn9337 I just gone one in the UK. Not giving it full beans yet, but it is not slow. And feels quicker than my previous mk 7.5 GTI Performance DSG already.
Great car. Not quite affordable enough though!
This destroys the Golf MK8 interior. GTI not even in the same interior class now
The Hyundai i30N eats all over both the 128ti and Golf GTI.
Both in excitement and flair,but ALSO in standard equipment
that you have to pay extra for in the Bimmer and VW.
Don't worry, we still have huge love for the i30 N and can't wait for the updated version coming out later this year.
Build quality in the i30 is crap when compared to the Bmw.
@@mattyoz0 Performance and price my man, Hyndais N cars will be all over the road while the Euros they compete with wont be.
How not to build a BMW. I love BMW but they have lost me with the new cars. Up until the M2 I’m game, after that I’m out
If we were given a money-no-object choice between M2 and 128ti, it's a no-brainer to pick the M2. But after BMW got things a bit wrong with the M135i xDrive, they deserve some credit for the more affordable performance hatch.
@@jezspinks426 Personally I am not giving BMW any credit for going front wheel drive. It’s like using a boat to go cycling.
@@valentijn9 Yep, fair enough - in an ideal world BMW would've stuck to its RWD-hatchback USP.
Can we lose the red bits please
They look so cheap and nasty
Rather this than the new Hyundai i30n for the same money
and garbage build quality.
A.....manual
Would seal the deal