BMW 1 Series 2011Change

The amazing thing about this car is the size of the trunk - for a convertible. Even with the top down there is room for two suitcases, a cooler, and several smaller bags. We've taken it for holidays all over the Atlantic provinces and as far South as Virginia on a couple of occasions. The rear seat is surprisingly roomy, but is low and wouldn't be very suitable for adults on long trips. However, for our granddaughters in their booster seats, riding in the back is a blast.

The engine is plenty gutsy, but this is not a fuel-efficient compact car by any means. It averages around 8.5 to 9 L/100 km urban and highway driving. But that's how it's advertised. That's the price you pay for the in-line 6 with the distinctive snarly exhaust note. (End of an era? The new BMW dual turbo 4's sound like giant sewing machines.)

Even though this was BMW's smallest North American export at the time it was introduced, you can get all the comforts and features imaginable. The Harmon Kardon sound system is fantastic, and the "driver's memory" function, which automatically adjusts the position of the seat, side mirrors and instrumentation (even tuning in to your favourite radio station) is indispensable for us aging baby boomers who switch drivers frequently.

I owned an M3 and would take this little rocket instead. Quite an eye catcher. I have owned the car from 28Kms to 37K Kms and it still runs like new.

Absolutely love this car, terrific handling and endless power at any speed. Great fuel economy at 8.8l/100kms. Beautiful exterior design, well assembled with no gaps. Very capable with winter tires in deep snow, always felt in complete control.

The car is a very nice little car. Come loaded with lots of bells and whistles. The car feel heavy and sturdy. Takes lots of gas for city driving. It takes more gas than my previous 330i in the city. Highway mileage is very good. Car does not feel fast at all. I found the previous 330i 5 speed steptronic matches the engine better than the new 6 speed.

I've had nothing but great times driving this car! Being real wheel drive, it's probably not the best for Canadian winters, but in the summer, you'll turn heads when you whip past them in this comfortable 2 door sports car.