2010 BMW 1 Series

BMW’s sedans and SUVs regularly earn CR’s recommendations for packing industry-leading comfort and technology into vehicles that are agile, quick, and even fuel efficient. Among luxury brands like Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Lincoln, and Land Rover, BMW’s SUVs often rank near the top of their category. Models like the X5 are remarkable for having powertrains that accelerate quickly while also managing above-average fuel efficiency. Some BMWs can be bought as plug-in hybrids, with useful electric-only range, or in performance trims, with more powerful engines and stiffer suspensions. BMW’s growing roster of EVs also generally rank high in our tests. Like most luxury cars from European manufacturers, BMWs fall on the expensive side of our assessments of maintenance and repair costs, but some specific models are a good option to buy used. However, shoppers considering a preowned BMW should opt for warranties or budget for repairs.

The compact 1 Series is available as a two-door coupe or convertible. Power comes from the same six-cylinder engines found in the 3 and 5 Series, including a muscular 300-hp twin-turbo. Excellent steering and body control, along with smooth shifter and clutch action, make the 1 Series a blast to drive. The 135i we tested was super agile, quick, and it even returned decent fuel economy. Although snug, the interior features high levels of fit and finish. Model year 2013 was the final year for this fun and agile car. The more refined 2 Series, with a choice of turbocharged four and six-cylinder engines replaced it for 2014, and offers all-wheel drive in coupe and convertible forms. Updates for 2020 included the Gran Coupe 4-door versions, 228i xDrive and M235i xDrive, which were based on a different less performance-oriented platform.