As cool as the 1-series is (particularly the 135i), I’ll be most curious to see if BMW ultimately releases an M1 here in the USA. :)

While I’d love to see it, I don’t believe BMW will release a proper “M” version of the 1 Series. The 135i already has the “M” suspension and an “M” bodykit. Oh and 300 freaking horsepower. I feel like BMW wanted to release what everyone has been wanting from day one and let the sales and good press just roll-in – hence the 135i has about everything you could want.

That said I can totally see a tii version with some added lightness and trinkets.

I’ve already ordered an Alpine White 135i which is due sometime in March.

Send pictures.

I’d say BMW’s marketing has already worked on me.

Since my wife and I were off work today we headed to the local BMW dealer for information on arrival of their first and ordering information. They have two coming in, a 135 coupe and a 128 convertible, late February or early March. This puts the time line of ordering one, if my wife chooses to do so after reviewing one in person, in perfect sync to dump the leased VW, POS as she puts it. She’s still dead set on a 128 though. Hey, it still has enough power to play on occasion. :)

The MINI’s marketing worked well so why not repeat what’s successful? This is especially important to sell small premium cars in the US. I don’t doubt that the 1-series will take some sales away from MINI, but I also wonder how many people will go to see it, and find it not as much in their price range as the MINI (conveniently sold next door).

Having said that, it’s too bad the one I want runs upwards of $40k, because I do think it’s one helluva looker and in contrast to the E90, the size seems just right to me.

It remains to be seen how the coming of the 1-series will affect MINI’s bottom line.

Keep in mind that many current and former R53 MINI owners are not necessarily seduced by the R56. This new offering seems to be the “next logical” step.