Earlier tonight I enjoyed the hospitality of Rolfe Classic BMW in Canberra at the launch of the new additions to BMW’s 1 Series range – the Coupé and Convertible. There has been plenty of hype about these cars on the net and I was keen to get a closer look for myself. The drinks were good, the music was good and the mingling was good. Most importantly, though, the cars were good. Rolfe had a 120i Convertible and a 135i Coupé on show and it was the 135i that I was most intent on seeing.

The 135i has the award winning twin turbo inline 6-cylinder that produces a very tidy 225kW (306hp in the old money) along with a nice round 400Nm of torque. That’s some serious mojo for a car weighing in at 1485kg. Sure, that’s no lightweight compared to BMW’s iconic 2002 Coupé of yesteryear. But, by today’s standards, and for its class, that’ll do very nicely thanks. Pricing for the 135i starts at $71,400 plus on-roads. For the average punter that may seem a lot, but compared to the 135i’s competition it is very well priced.

Coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission the 135i is capable of reaching the speed limit in just 5.3 seconds. I guess all that torque coming in at just 1300rpm really does work. There’s the usual alphabet of safety and handling acronyms to make sure the car keeps you in one piece and that it steers where you want it to steer. Nicely balanced 50/50 weight distribution and rear wheel drive contribute to what should be a very rewarding driving experience. From sitting in the car I can say the sport seats are very comfortable, yet hug you nicely and I would expect them to hold you in the corners quite well. The M sport steering wheel feels just right as well. I felt like nicking the keys there and then and doing a few laps around Canberra!

It comes as no surprise that the styling of this car has attracted a lot of attention, plenty of good and plenty of bad. I have to say when I first saw images of the car I was underwhelmed. However, the more I looked at the car the more the styling seemed to click. And in seeing the car in person tonight I am now an unabashed fan. The Coupé has that perfect mix of aggression and purpose in its stance, with enough fine details to keep it looking fresh.

Also launched tonight was the 1 Series Convertible. With an electric folding roof this car will be sure to enjoy a few sunny mornings outside the must see cafés around town. To me, the Coupé is a much more successful design execution. But then, as I mentioned to a guest tonight, Convertibles aren’t really my thing unless we’re talking Porsche – think classic 1960s 356. BMW haven’t held back with the Convertible however, with the full complement of engines available, including a 135i option. Pricing for the 120i starts at $52,900 and with a few gentle arm twists I’m sure Patrick at Rolfe could get you on the road under the Luxury Car Tax. Well, you don’t get if you don’t ask! These cars are well worth a look, and if you’re after a 135i, in particular, I suggest you get on down to your local BMW dealer as stocks are limited in the short term.

For a more comprehensive view of the 1 Series, check out the excellent independent BimmerFile website.