When BMW created the 128ti it was pretty obvious that it was squarely aimed at taking on the very popular Golf GTi. 180 kW, 4 cylinder turbocharged engine, front-wheel-drive with a limited-slip differential is a recipe for an epic driving experience. I recently headed to Johannesburg to sample the GTi fighter.
When it comes to looks, the BMW 128ti is a little different compared to the other models in the 1 Series range. What sets it apart is specific covers and trim mouldings, side skirt trim, and a “ti” badge ahead of the rear wheels in a very eye-catching red colour. It comes standard with Shadowline trim with the black BMW kidney grille and exclusive 18-inch Y spoke wheels. Some might say that the red trim is a bit much, but I like it, it adds some character to the car. The BMW 128ti can be ordered in Alpine White, Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral Grey Metallic, and Storm Bay Metallic. It can also be ordered in Misano Blue or Melbourne Red with the “ti” badge in black. The badging can be deleted on request.
The unique styling characteristics also make their way into the cabin. There is a host of red accents, including a large Race Red surface in the backrests of the standard sports seats, embroidered “ti” badge in the central armrest and contrast stitching in the other armrests, door panels and instrument panels. The M Sport steering wheel also features red stitching.
Powering the BMW 128ti is a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 180kW and 380 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission which is good for a 0 – 100 km/h sprint in just 6.3 seconds. The European market gets the full fat 195 kW version, whilst our local gets the 180 kW model. Honestly speaking it felt like the full 195 kW by the way it pulls. For the 128ti to stand a chance against the Golf GTi, the engineers at BMW has to really go to work. They specifically tuned the M Sport suspension and lowered the ride height by 10mm. They also added a Torsen limited-slip differential and bespoke steering application. Carried over from the M135i are firmer anti-roll bars and anti-roll bar mount with high preload. In addition, it also gets stiffer springs and shock absorbers.
Without the all-wheel-drive system, the BMW 128ti weighs 80kg less than the M135i. With the aforementioned, this is a recipe for one hell of a drive. Compared to its sibling the M135i, it’s more exciting to drive. Thanks to a limited-slip differential and Bridgestone Turanza T005 tyres you find yourself in and out of corners with confidence accompanied by blistering pace.
The 128ti has a lot of character in terms of aesthetics and driving dynamics, its just a pity that the exhaust note doesn’t exude the same. Bury your foot to the loud pedal and it barrels down the road in a not so aurally pleasing fashion. I feel BMW could have added a sportier exhaust that’s accompanied by a few pops would have been the icing on the cake.
This is one car that completely blew me away. I was expecting one thing, but what I got was another – and I must say that I am thoroughly impressed. The 128ti is priced quite aggressively starting at R 697, 000 before you start exploring the options list. This begs the question of how VW will price their incoming Golf 8 GTi. If you love driving, this should definitely be on your shortlist as it has more character than the M135i and will probably give the Golf GTi a serious run for its money. BMW is definitely going to shake up the hot hatch market with the 128ti.
Images: BMW SA
