A ultimate driving machine – the new BMW 128ti.
The BMW 128ti with a distinctive character is placed just below the range-topping BMW M135i xDrive. With its specially tuned and 10mm lowered M Sport suspension, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and a bespoke steering application, the front-wheel-drive compact model is all about highly engaging driving pleasure. The BMW 128ti carries over the firmer anti-roll bars and anti-roll bar mounts with high preload from the BMW M135i xDrive. Stiffer springs and shock absorbers tuned to provide excellent driving dynamics. In addition, the front-wheel-drive 128ti is around 80 kilograms lighter than the M135i xDrive.
The 2.0-liter engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology is close relative to the BMW M135i xDrive – the BMW most powerful four-cylinder unit – and delivers 195 kW (265 hp). The eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is standard. As in the BMW M135i xDrive, the standard-fitted M Sport braking system with red-painted brake calipers provides impressive braking performance. The 18-inch Y-spoke 553 M bi-colour light-alloy wheels are reserved exclusively for the BMW 128ti, while sport tires (Michelin Pilot Sport4) can be specified as a no-cost option.
Exclusive distinguishing features on the inside and outside of the BMW 128ti give the car a distinctive appearance. Taking the M Sport model as a basis, it adds specific covers and trim moldings, side skirt trim, and a “ti” badge ahead of the rear wheels in a sporting red color. If the BMW 128ti is ordered with the Melbourne Red or Misano Blue metallic paint finishes, the accents and “ti” badge (which can be deleted, if desired) come in black.
The standard specification includes extended Shadowline trim with black BMW kidney grille and black mirror caps, while the optional BMW Individual lights Shadowline for the headlights creates a darker appearance, helped by the absence of various chrome trim elements.
The interior also contains a host of red accents, including a large Race Red surface in the backrests of the standard sport seats, the embroidered “ti” badge in the central armrest, and contrast stitching in the other armrests, door panels, and instrument panels. The steering wheel rim and the airbag cover in the M Sport steering wheel feature red stitching.
The BMW 128ti breathes new life into a long tradition at BMW. Since the 1960s the “TI” badge has stood for “Turismo Internazionale” and marks out particularly sporty models – from the iconic BMW 1800 TI and BMW 2002 TI to the BMW 323ti Compact and BMW 325ti Compact of the late 1990s.
