New BMW 128ti 2022 review (finally a good FWD 1 Series?)

The launch of the front-wheel drive BMW 1 Series didn’t go that well. After two generations of the RWD 1er, the FWD 118i and M135i did not thrill us when they were first released. In response, BMW has quickly released an all-new model: enter the new 128ti grade, equipped with a front LSD and a detuned version of the 2.0-litre turbo from the M135i. But can the 2022 128ti finally impress us? Can it rival the AMG A35 and Audi S3? What about the Golf GTI which reigns supreme in this part of the premium hot hatch space?

In today’s episode, Chasing Cars journalist John Law conducts an independent and in-depth review of the 2022 BMW 128ti hot hatch ($57,900 plus on-road costs).

Chasing Cars is Australia's most independent source of new car reviews, car industry news, comparisons and car guides. We give you a critical look at every new car you should consider!

[danielreynolds]

Nice review! I've owned one for a few days shy of a year and 14, 000km now, and it's been a heap of fun when roads and traffic have allowed. Mine being an early 2021 car also means that it has all tech that later cars don't, so that's a bonus. It lacks the absolute last-degree involvement of a Ford hot hatch but it's streets ahead of the M135i, which while being faster is dull to drive by comparison... yes, it has character! I concur on the front-end styling. Let's just say there's a reason I chose black: painful as it is to keep looking decent, it hides the oversized grille. Overall it looks special, though. Being a long-time hot hatch fan, the red bits (both inside and out) were a big drawcard for me. A year later, I still love that it stands out from the rest of the range, while still retaining a level of class. So... it's a grown-up hot hatch.

[adams]

Replaced my highly modified Late model GTI Mk7 with the 128ti in Sept 21. In Melbourne Red with black highlights it looks even better. Every option including 19 inch alloys, and a few months back wireless charging and heads up display were still fitted. As I’m 54 it does what I was after, a semi hot hatch with grown up looks 👍

[pietroferrari]

Just for curiosity why do you have an “underpowered” version?, in EU the power is 265hp and 400nm of torque

[dariopaolini]

Love the way you described the ride! Exactly my thoughts when I back to back test drove the M235i Gran Coupe vs the Audi S3. The Audi felt like a run of the mill A3 unless you were gunning it, whereas the BMW always lets you know you're driving something special. It just gives you the slightest bit of feel all the time, even when you're taking it easy. And that's why I bought the M235i instead of the S3.

[KS-roin]

I am due for a replacement for my 2018 Audi TT ( by spring/summer 2023) and would love this offered in the USA as I am considering a Mk 8 VW GTI as well and a BMW this would be even better . Any word if this is coming in the next year for the US?

[geraldoconnor]

Nice to have someone behind the wheel who does not drive so boringly slow.

[EnShinNoi]

Why does 'hot hatch' automatically mean the car has to have a tacky interior? At least it's not on the tackiness level of a Golf GTI with its plastics, carbon fiber patterning and LED lights.

[steamroller]

Just had a look online and this is a cool looking car however with options a nice 60k car can easily become over 70 which for most people is still a stretch

[mrwilliamhope]

Great review! The dashboard and interior of the 1 series are something else compared to its competitors. I'm hoping to test one of these cars shortly. I'm naturally a VW guy but their interiors are terrible these days...

[davidperry]

A great review John but you are far too young to remember those early Ti cars. It looks good going through those twisties (unless you increased the video speed??). Seems to be reasonable value in Australia and obviously meant to be a direct competitor to the Golf GTI.

[toka.lifeworld]

Doesn't admit it's detuned for Australia?

[GlowingTube]

I’m keen on a car with no spare wheel, oil dipstick, high ownership costs, great dynamics, good looks and engineering designed to have it in a crusher within a decade.

[fale]

Euro car reviews: mostly interior review

Japanese cars: straight to driving review

[johnfranklin]

I agree about the tires. Mine came on the Pirelli's, and they are average at best. I was hoping for the Michelin Pilot Sport 4s, as I optioned the performance tyres. But, it's luck of the draw in terms of what you actually get.

[bradleybprentice]

Good review. thanks. I came close to purchasing a BMW M135i XDrive in January 2020. I delayed because I saw what was coming in terms of Covid. It was a great car. the 118i seem to be a more competitive option but lacking in some areas. The Ti option in my opinion is good but the red external highlights really cheapen the look of the car.

[casey]

As a BMW fan boy, this like the 2 Series Gran Coupe and the X1/X2 are just Mini Countryman's in drag.
Aisin auto, FWD architecture
It's just not a BMW
However I do like the interior!

[Mexxx]

Oh my comment, think 1 or 2 here bother to read Lol

BMW have sold out! The ultimate driving machine FWD? After all their years of feeding us some of the very best RWD cars. Hell even this one, deserves, and looks like it should be RWD!!! Rather pricey i30N alternative.

Good review John, as always mate, enjoyed it!!

[Fingerproduction]

My 128ti has 265hp and 400 NM of torque... What's wrong with yours 😁🍻😁

[sbusisozulu]

This review was about what the car is NOT rather than what it is. I heard so many cars being thrown around / compared that I was like just buy other cars if you want those. Are you reviewing a BMW or what BMW is not!

[Jake-iebi]

Still pissed that they dropped the rwd set up, now it’s literally just a mini clubman