Best Car Reviews - 2009 BMW 128i Convertible

Introduction

The 2009 BMW 128i Convertible debuted as a part of the BMW 1 Series, targeting driving enthusiasts who desire a compact, performance-oriented vehicle with the added thrill of open-air motoring. As an entry-level convertible, it offers a blend of sporty dynamics and luxury features that appeal to younger buyers and first-time BMW owners. What stands out in this model is its balanced performance, coupled with the trademark BMW rear-wheel-drive layout, providing an exhilarating drive.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2009 BMW 128i Convertible exhibits a classic, yet contemporary design that exudes elegance and sportiness. The vehicle's compact dimensions and well-sculpted lines contribute to its athletic stance on the road.

Size and Shape: The subcompact size makes city driving and parking a breeze while maintaining a robust convertible body style.
Hood and Grille: Features BMW's iconic kidney grille and long, sculpted hood.
Wheels and Body: Comes equipped with stylish alloy wheels and body-colored bumpers.
Top: Fully automatic fabric roof that can be opened or closed at speeds up to 40 km/h.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping into the BMW 128i Convertible, you are greeted by a driver-centric layout, characteristic of BMW's design ethos. The cabin combines premium materials with ergonomic design to ensure an enjoyable riding experience.

Materials: High-quality leather seats and a soft-touch dashboard.
Space: Despite its compact nature, it comfortably seats four passengers.
Convenience: Dual-zone climate control and an automatic seat adjustment system.
Luxury Features:
- Ambient interior lighting
- Heated front seats
- High-fidelity sound system

Performance and Handling

Under the hood of the 128i Convertible lies a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 230 horsepower. It pairs with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering a pure driving experience for enthusiasts.

Acceleration: Achieves 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.4 seconds, showcasing impressive energetic performance.
Driving Dynamics: The rear-wheel-drive setup provides precise handling, making it fun to drive in the city and stable on the highway.
Cornering: Sharp and spirited in turns, providing confidence and control.
Fuel Efficiency: Averaging 14.2 l/100 km, which is respectable for its performance class.

Key Performance Highlights:

Responsive throttle response
Refined ride quality, supple over bumps
Quick manual gear changes

Technology and Connectivity

The 2009 BMW 128i Convertible offers a suite of technological features that cater to both entertainment and driver assistance needs.

Infotainment: Equipped with a straightforward audio system and optional navigation.
Connectivity: Offers Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports for easy pairing with devices.
Standout Tech Features:
- Optional iDrive controller
- Multi-function steering wheel for seamless control
- Premium sound system

Safety Features

Safety in the 128i Convertible is comprehensive, with several standard and advanced features ensuring peace of mind on the road.

Standard Safety: Anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, and multiple airbags.
Advanced Safety:
- Available Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Reinforced roll-over protection

While exact crash ratings are not provided in this review, BMW's commitment to safety and engineering excellence suggests robust performance in safety evaluations.

Pricing and Variants

The 2009 BMW 128i Convertible starts at approximately $34,000 USD, offering a competitive price point for those seeking a luxury convertible without tipping into the higher echelons of the market.

Variants: Mainly offered as a standalone model with optional packages.
Market Comparison: More affordable than the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class and comparable to the Audi A3 Cabriolet.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Engaging driving experience
Premium interior quality
Classic convertible design
Strong brand reputation
Manual transmission availability

Cons

Limited rear seat space
High fuel consumption
Minimal advanced tech features for the year
Pricey maintenance costs
Lack of modern safety tech

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the BMW 128i Convertible average around $1,200 USD, reflecting the premium nature of the vehicle.

Common Problems:

Water pump failures
High-pressure fuel pump issues
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket
Window regulator failures
Electric top malfunctions

Rating

Overall Rating: 7.8/10

Design: 8/10
Comfort: 7.5/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 7/10
Safety: 7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"Absolutely love the driving dynamics, makes every drive enjoyable!"
"The interior feels luxurious, but maintenance can be expensive."
"Performance is brilliant but be prepared for fuel costs."
"Converting the top is smooth and works well at city speeds."
"I wish it had more modern tech features, but it does the basics well."

Common praises center around its driving performance and build quality, while criticisms commonly cite fuel efficiency and the cost of ownership.

Best Cars in this Category

2009 Audi A3 Cabriolet
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
2009 Volkswagen Eos
2009 MINI Cooper Convertible
2009 Saab 9-3 Convertible

Summary

The 2009 BMW 128i Convertible is best suited for enthusiasts who prioritize performance, brand prestige, and the joys of open-top driving. Its appeal lies in its sporty dynamics and luxury touches, making it a compelling choice for those wanting a convertible with character. While it lacks some modern tech and fuel economy, its performance and design make it a worthy contender in its class.