[MarkR171]

Engine
- 2008 - 2010 models have the twin turbo N54 engine
- 2011 models have the twinscroll (single) turbo N55 engine

Sport / M-Sport
- 2008 only had the Sport Package option which included shadowline trim, sport seats and the M Steering wheel
- 2009-2011 models had the M-Sport option which included sport package + M Sport style 261M wheels, M door sills, and Anthracite (black) headliner.

Transmission
- 2008-2010 had the option of Steptronic or 6MT
- 2011 128i maintains Step or 6MT
- 2011 135i has the option of Dual Clutch transmission or 6MT
- 2011 128i Steptronic paddles are right side up and left side downshift instead of previous method of push for up and pull for down

Mirrors
- 2008-2009 have smaller mirros
- 2010-2011 have larger mirrors

Colors
- 2008 model year was the only year to offer Sparkling Graphite Metallic
- 2009-2011 introduces Le Mans Blue Metallic available only with the M-Sport Package
- 2008-2009 offered Monaco Blue
- 2010-2011 Deep Sea Blue replaced Monaco Blue

Value Package
- 2011 models have the Value Package option which includes leather interior and i-Pod connectivity at no cost