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BMW 135i Outpoints Its Competitors to Become Consumer Reports' Top-Rated Sporty Car

kthor submitted on 09/03/2008 Official AutoSpies Timestamp: 11:58 AM
from: www.marketwatch.com

[31] user comments | category: Reviews

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Tags: BMW, 135i, Autospies Car of Year, Consumer Reports, Top-Rated Sporty Car

Tag Links: BMW, 135i, Autospies Car of Year, Consumer Reports, Top-Rated Sporty Car

BMW 135i Outpoints Its Competitors to Become Consumer Reports' Top-Rated Sporty Car

YONKERS, N.Y., Sept 02, 2008 -- CR tests BMW coupe against Subaru Impreza WRX STi, Volkswagen R32, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and others for October issue
The BMW 135i achieved an "Excellent" overall score and outpaced all its competitors to become Consumer Reports' top-rated sporty car in testing for the October issue. The 135i drew praise for its splendid handling, a punchy engine delivering a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 5.2 seconds, and its overall fun-to-drive quality.
Other highly-rated cars in this month's test group of eight sports and sporty cars were the Subaru Impreza WRX STi, Volkswagen R32, and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, in that ranking order. All three of those vehicles achieved overall scores that were also in the "Excellent" range, but lower than the 135i. The four top-rated vehicles ranged in price from $33,630 for the R32 to $38,078 for the "Evo."
The October test group also included four other cars, which are priced about $10,000 less and delivered impressive performance for the price. They included the Subaru Impreza WRX, Chevrolet Cobalt SS, Nissan Sentra SE-R, and Dodge Caliber SRT4. Prices for those models ranged from $23,310 for the SE-R to $25,169 for the WRX.
The issue also includes an "Auto Test Extra" report on the Volvo C30 hatchback, which is less sporty than the other eight models tested but is stylish and capable. It earned a "Very Good" overall score.
"The new 135i is quick, well balanced and a lot of fun to drive," said David Champion, senior director of automotive testing for Consumer Reports. "The engine is smooth and powerful and returns relatively good fuel economy. Steering and brakes are excellent, and the cabin is well finished and quiet, with comfortable front seats."
Full tests and ratings of the sporty cars group and the C30 appear in the redesigned October issue of Consumer Reports, which goes on sale September 2. The reports are also available to subscribers of www.ConsumerReports.org.
The only vehicle that Consumer Reports is Recommending from this month's testing are the Subaru Impreza WRX and the more aggressive WRX STi, based on previous Subaru models' reliability. The other tested vehicles are still too new for Consumer Reports to have reliability data on them. CR only recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's annual survey of its more than seven million print and web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.
BMW began selling the 135i in the U.S. this year, but the 1 Series has been sold elsewhere since 2004. In addition to having the quickest 0-to-60-mph acceleration time in this group, it also had the shortest braking distances on dry and wet surfaces, and the highest speed through CR's avoidance maneuver, which measures at-the-limit handling. The 135i ($37,650 Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price as tested) is powered by a 300-hp, 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine that delivers uninterrupted punch and pulls powerfully from idle to redline. Expect 23 mpg overall on premium fuel. The six-speed manual transmission shifts accurately and smoothly but is a bit notchy. The brakes are excellent.
Redesigned for 2008, the WRX STi delivers impressive acceleration, braking, and handling. Still, the STi doesn't live up to the standards set by the previous generation car. It isn't as exciting to drive, the steering isn't as sharp, and the shifter and clutch require lots of effort to use. The STi ($37,640 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 305-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers quick acceleration when pressed except in very low revs. The STi returned 21 mpg overall on premium fuel in CR's own fuel economy tests. Braking is excellent.
The limited-production Volkswagen R32 ($33,630 MSRP as tested) is a more powerful, luxurious, and pricier all-wheel-drive version of VW's impressive GTI. It provides superior handling balance, accelerates briskly, sounds muscular and brakes well. It pampers occupants with comfortable seats, a high-quality cabin, and decent ride-comfort and noise levels for this class. The R32 is powered by a 250-hp, 3.2-liter V6 that is both responsive and strong. The six-speed, automated manual transmission shifts smoothly and quickly. CR averaged 22 mpg overall in its tests on premium fuel. Braking was very good.
The Lancer Evolution, or Evo, is an uncompromising high-performance sports car. With quick acceleration and impressive handling, it is a lot of fun in the right conditions. But its frenetic highway behavior, stiff ride, raucous cabin, spartan interior, and confining seats mean that this car is not for the average driver. The Evo ($38,078 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 291-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is a strong performer. Its five-speed manual transmission performs well, but its short gearing adversely affects noise and fuel consumption on the highway. CR recorded 21 mpg overall on premium fuel. Brakes are excellent.
The WRX is roomier, quieter, and more comfortable and refined than its predecessor. But it's lost some sportiness that made the original so much fun to drive. It still remains a practical, affordable, sedan that's quick and fairly agile. The WRX ($25,169 MSRP as tested) is propelled by a 224-hp, 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides effortless power while averaging a respectable 24 mpg on premium fuel. The five-speed manual transmission shifts well. Braking is excellent.
Swapping out a supercharger for a turbocharger and implementing other tweaks make the revised 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS a better car and a more credible sports coupe. It accelerates quickly and has capable handling, excellent brakes, and a tolerable ride. The engine and exhaust note sound invigorating. But its score was hurt by unimpressive interior fit and finish, wind noise, and rear-seat access. The Cobalt SS ($24,535 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 260-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine that delivers excellent acceleration and 22 mpg overall on premium gas. The short-throw five-speed manual transmission shifts crisply.
Years ago, the Sentra SE-R was a fun-to-drive little pocket rocket, but no more. CR tested the sportiest, most powerful current version, called the Spec V. Yet when it comes to sporty driving, it's unimpressive. It has decent power and a fairly roomy interior. But there is little that is special about its handling. The Sentra SE-R Spec V ($23,310 MSRP as tested) is equipped with a 200-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers lively acceleration and averaged 30 mpg on premium. Its six-speed manual transmission is a bit clunky. Braking is very good. The SE-R was the only car in this group without electronic stability control, a valuable safety feature.
An attempt to make the mediocre Caliber into a sports car, the SRT4 succeeds only in creating a faster version of a car that was crude to begin with. The SRT4 is relatively quick, and the engine sounds good, but it fails to deliver where it matters most: the fun-to-drive factor. Clumsy handling, a balky shifter, a heavy clutch, a very stiff ride, and constant loud noise compromise the driving experience. The SRT4 ($24,930 MSRP as tested) is powered by a 285-hp, 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers strong acceleration but feels coarse. The six-speed manual transmission has long throws and heavy shifter effort. Brakes are very good.
With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To become a subscriber, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org.
OCTOBER 2008 Read Article

BMW 135i Outpoints Its Competitors to Become Consumer Reports' Top-Rated Sporty Car

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topneuro - 9/3/2008 1:11:35 PM

-8 Boost

Great another BMW ultimate driving machine with no spare tire and battery in the rear of vehicle.
I guess my riding lawn mower could be considered a BMW convertible.

reply to this comment

AgentOrange - 9/3/2008 2:55:50 PMView My AgentSpace

+10 Boost

The battery under the trunk floor is for better front/rear 50/50 weight distribution.
As for the no spare, it's not needed as the 1er has run flat tires. if the tire goes flat, you can still drive 60mph for several hundred miles.
I've been running RTFs on my bimmers for the past 6 years.

America - 9/3/2008 4:27:23 PM

+7 Boost

Congratulations to BMW for another solid win!!! topneuro, you should go back to mowing lawns and save up for a car. Once you have driven a real car you won't say totally stupid comments.

Whelan - 9/3/2008 1:13:44 PM

-5 Boost

If the BMW 135i is supposed to be an entry level luxury coupe, then why pin it against a STi or R32. Those are very niche performance cars that go against the likes of the Evolution, and such. No wonder it did so well, you put a luxury performance driving machine up against a stiff, strictly performance minded STI, and R32. Personally if I was in the market for either of those or the 135i. I would not be cross shopping. Price does not always determine what you shop against, so them being in the same range does not automatically denote competition.

I dont go shopping for a $60,000 M3 and cross shop it to a $60,000 Range Rover? Maybe that's a bit far-fetched, but BMW competes against other luxury brands, not Subaru and VW. It would go against an Audi S3 in my opinion before going up to these two.

CR can maybe next time give me a comparo that means something.

reply to this comment

HSCenterconsole - 9/3/2008 1:17:18 PM

+4 Boost

The Audi S3 isn't sold here in the States, home of Consumer Reports. Does it make sense now?

david999 - 9/3/2008 1:54:54 PM

-6 Boost

"The only vehicle that Consumer Reports is Recommending from this month's testing are the Subaru Impreza WRX and the more aggressive WRX STi"

reply to this comment

AgentOrange - 9/3/2008 2:57:52 PMView My AgentSpace

+8 Boost

CR never recommends a 1st year production vehicle because no quality or repair history, hence they can't recommend the 1er..

david999 - 9/3/2008 3:39:33 PM

-6 Boost

The 1 series has been around at least 3 years in Europe, and owners curse this car.

HSCenterconsole - 9/3/2008 3:55:47 PM

+7 Boost

David999, could you at least back up your absurd statements with a link?

America - 9/3/2008 4:35:51 PM

+7 Boost

The 1 Series was just recently voted World Green Car of Year in Europe. They LOVE this car!!!!!!

http://www.automotoportal.com/article/bmw-118d-wins-world-green-car-of-the-year

Whelan - 9/3/2008 3:05:32 PM

-4 Boost

I know the S3 is not available in the states, why, I have no clue. But these two cars the STI and R32 are by no means a competitor in the same segment as the 135i.

Not to mention the 1 series I got to drive at a dealer, nice car, but waaaay to small for me, and I have drive a Civic Coupe and now a Matrix.

reply to this comment

topneuro - 9/3/2008 3:11:58 PM

-6 Boost

A vehicle with no spare tire is a dismal engineering design whether is Lexus, Mazda, BMW, or any other car maker that does it. Run flat tires are expensive to repair and give a lousy ride. Check any BMW blog and feast on flat tires horror stories. The battery in the trunk weight distribution story is an old one and it does not fly, considering the battery cable connections have to be 3 to five times longer, jump starting a car becomes grotesque and hilarious with the hood and trunk open.

reply to this comment

America - 9/3/2008 4:27:02 PM

+5 Boost

Congratulations to BMW for another solid win!!! topneuro, you should go back to mowing lawns and save up for a car. Once you have driven a real car you won't say totally stupid comments.

America - 9/3/2008 4:33:43 PM

+6 Boost

topneuro, you really are an ignorant fool. Every BMW has clearly marked jumper points under the hood! You sound sooooo stoooopid! You can't repair runflat tires so there goes another comment of yours right into the bin of retardation. When one of your family members gets two flats at night in bad neighborhood, which car would you wnat them in? An old design with one manually replacable spare or car engineered from the ground up to run on runflats that can continue on it way for 150 miles. Unless you would don't care about your family there is no question that BMW's solution is a MILLION TIMES BETTER.

America - 9/3/2008 7:51:49 PM

+2 Boost

topnuero, this might help clear up the RunFlat tire issue for you:

"Most complaints are probably due to a misunderstanding of runflats and their underlying technology. Getting 20-25k miles out of ANY Z,W,Y,U "ultra-performance" tire is a feat in itself. The tires are designed with a bias toward handling, grip and water dispersion. After having numerous sets of runflats on my BMW, Carrera, and MINI, I am very aware of the faults ofter associated with the tires. One of the most common complaints I know of is noise and harshness. This is usually attributed to the fact that the tire(s) were driven for an extended period of time in an underinflated condition. By this time, even when the tire pressure has been corrected, the damage was done to the tire internally and will be apparent as noise, vibration or harshness, especially at lower highway speeds. If you expect a soft ride, very long treadwear life or noiseless tires, you probably shouldn't be driving a BMW (or Porsche, Corvette, MINI or performance model Lexus, Acura, Infiniti, etc.). Nowadays, the auto manufacturers design the cars while collaborating with a select few tires manufacturers to achieve extreme handling, roadholding and braking levels that were never achieved in the past. It is understood that these special car and matched tire combinations are going to come at a price. "

Whatthe - 9/3/2008 4:19:41 PM

-5 Boost

CR is a JOKE. Don't get me wrong, the 1 is a great car, but best, I think not. First, look at the sticker. There are a lot of great cars around $40,000, including other BMW's.
Second, it is a bit of a clown car. Did I say expensive.
By the by, R32, is this another joke...

reply to this comment

topneuro - 9/3/2008 4:38:38 PM

-5 Boost

Sorry my mistake, I forgot BMW drivers do not change flat tires and do not jump start their cars.

There are several class action lawsuits in progress against BMW of North America, LLC and Bridgestone Firestone regarding RFT.
I will acknowledge there is only ONE good thing about RFT, a tire rupture at very, very high speed, but otherwise they are noisy, vibrate, develop bubbles on the sides of the tires, tend to tramline road irregularities, increase wear and tear in your suspension, run like rocks, for any minor mishap most of the time you end up replacing them instead of a simple repair.

http://www.bmwrunflattire.com/

reply to this comment

America - 9/3/2008 6:55:27 PM

+3 Boost

Great Site! Thanks!! Here's a quote from the front page:

"Ever had a front tire failure at 110+ MPH? If I had conventional tires, I most likely would not be here to type this note! I was able to safely pull over to the side if the roadway and call roadside assistance. THe tire carcass was destroyed but it remained intact enough to allow me to control and slow the car. The safety benefits of runflats are numerous and are worthy considerations when deciding to either buy a car equipped with them or deciding to replace them. As for me, I'm a believer. I'll put up with shorter treadwear life and somewhat harsher ride as compared with conventional tires, but I will not compromise my family's safety to save a few bucks. I bought a BMW for its performance and handling characteristics. It is a well engineered car and the safety features built into the car are are too numerous to list, but one must not forget that no matter what car you are in, the only contact you have with the road is through the four little contact patches where the tire meets the road. Runflats are better able to maintain a flat contact patch even when deflated and will also remain attached to the rim. Conventional tires' sidewalls collapse and the tire will easily separate from the rim at highway speed. I no longer feel comfortable driving a car with conventional tires, especially when driving spiritedly. I will not compromise safety for $$$. If you are driving a BMW and the issue of replacing runflats comes up, and you choose the cheaper route rather than the safer route, you are doing a disservice to all who ride in the car with you. Would you inform your passengers that you have chosen to replace the runflats with cheaper conventional tires which are not as safe as runflats in event of a failure? I doubt you would."

America - 9/4/2008 3:58:02 PM

+2 Boost

There are obviously other commenters on this site, but the one by this guy is so much more informed and intelligent that it would make no sense to post something from the people who just don't understand tire technology. Just because someone is successful enough to afford a great car like a BMW does not neccessarily mean they understand the complexities of modern tire technology. But thanks again top! Great Site!!

1995e34 - 9/3/2008 5:36:09 PM

+5 Boost

it looks even better in person. i want the 5 door hatch, though.

reply to this comment

SixxFive - 9/3/2008 5:42:33 PM

+5 Boost

topneuro: your comments illustrate the car you would probably relate to most: Toyota Corolla.

reply to this comment

topneuro - 9/3/2008 8:35:35 PM

-2 Boost

Please read again my post "only ONE good thing about RFT, a tire rupture at very, very high speed". America is a good example of BMW fanatic/lunatic objectivity, the site list responses of 141 die hard BMW owners about RFT, and he pick ONE of the 8 favorable comments i.e. 5% and disregards the other 133 i.e. 95% who say RFT suck.

reply to this comment

America - 9/4/2008 4:05:45 PM

+2 Boost

We Americans are sick of being bashed by you name-callers. If you don't care enough about yourself and your family to transport them in a car properly engineered to utilize state-of-the-art tire safety technology then so be it, but how dare you try to convince intelligent, hard-working Americans not to be safe. If you can't figure out to take care of RFT tires then buy yourself a basic transportation appliance and roll the dice. For everyone else ready to graduate to next level... Welcome!

investor27 - 9/3/2008 9:22:05 PM

+1 Boost

A 5 door hatchback is great, so bring it over BMW.

Now seriously, how often are you going to be able to drive over 100 mph in the US and experienced a blow-out?

reply to this comment

Whelan - 9/4/2008 8:40:42 AM

+1 Boost

So nice to get deboosted for making comments that again are non-bashing but simply pointing out differences in the article. I'll probably get deboosted again here for something by a 10 year old.

reply to this comment

topneuro - 9/4/2008 4:41:24 PM

-1 Boost

Usual behavior, find the enlighten BMW owner (1/141), blame the ToyoLex conspiracy, then blame the ignorant (133/141) BMW owners, this will be followed by blaming the tire company and after that blame the unscrupulous BWW dealer, salesmen and service department, because BMW is perfect and the umbilicus of the Universe.

reply to this comment

NISSANINFINITI - 9/4/2008 5:10:09 PM

+3 Boost

good job BMW

reply to this comment

huu76 - 9/5/2008 12:51:21 AM

-1 Boost

I bet BMW fans now consider CR as the automotive bible.

Kind of funny that the BMW isn't the most expensive car.

Oh well, maybe the 135i will be compared to SUVs next (that's about the only class of vehicle they haven't tried yet) and be deemed the most rugged and best off-roader.

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