Nextourer

With BMW's 1-series is set to hit showrooms this March, the German automaker has announced that pricing will start at $33,900 for the 128i. This represents a new entry level into the BMW brand, opening a path to a new sort of BMW owner.

Standard on the 128's spec sheet are 17-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, automatic climate control, high-performance audio and a six-speed manual transmission. 128i is also available in a Cabriolet from $39,900. The unique, metal-look fabric top can be retracted in 22 seconds at speeds up to 40 km/h.

For a new level of compact fun, the twin-turbocharged 135i is available starting at $41,700. Its 300 horsepower engine is an international award winner, and generates enough thrust to blast it to 60 in just 5.4 seconds. Opting for the 135i Cabriolet model bumps the price to $47,200.

BMW says that the powerplants in each model follow their 'efficient dynamics' philosophy- namely unmatched fuel efficiency and rewarding performance in one package. The higher-performance 135 model is distinguished in the lineup by a unique aerodynamics package, sport suspension, 18-inch wheels and high-performance braking system.

1-Series goes on sale March 22.

Source: Auto123.com

For comparison, a 323i in Canada starts at $35,900 and the 328i at $41,000.

$41,000 for a 328i or $700 for a turbocharged 135i. Seems better priced than the US, no?