Silky-smooth straight-six screamer
128i is motivated by one of BMW's famous inline-six engines. A three-liter unit, it twists the rear wheels with a silky 230 horsepower while smoothly transitioning between a torque-monster and rev-happy screamer as the tachometer counts to seven. There isn't a definable power curve so much as a buttery-smooth surge of acceleration whenever the driver's foot drops.

The 128i is motivated by one of BMW's famous inline-six engines.

Said acceleration is zippy, and the engine zings delightfully when pushed hard. Some may find it slightly loud, partly due to a free-flowing dual-outlet exhaust system that seems tuned to make sound effects a younger-than-average BMW buyer would find appealing.

Fuel mileage averaged about 10L / 100km in the city, and 8L / 100km during highway cruising.

The engine is attached optionally to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. It shifts imperceptibly on the way up and matches revs on the way down and there's even a 'sport' setting which engages a hair-trigger throttle and more aggressive gear changes. Not a stick, but BMW's programmers have made the automatic nearly as much fun.

You won't likely find the 128i lacking in the power department, but there's also a twin-turbocharged 135i designated model available, with 300 horsepower. If you've ever wanted your own pet monster that loves to wag its tail, this one's for you.

Handling and Ride
The tester rode a set of 17-inch wheels wearing run-flat tires, hung from the body by a double pivot strut front suspension and a five-link independent rear suspension. It's tuned for a touch of comfortable softness around a tight and sporty attitude. In English? The 128i does nasty things to corners without beating occupants to a pulp every time it hits a bump.

The heavy steering and thick steering wheel help drivers lock onto the road's surface in fast corners, and the brand's typical telepathic feedback is largely present. Push the car hard and handling remains neutral, the rear never getting out of line beyond a little squirm unless drivers are really ambitious. The 128i probably offers more grip than you'll ever exploit- though an open differential and fast-acting stability control system are installed to help keep things civilized if you try.

The tester rode a set of 17-inch wheels wearing run-flat tires.