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Driving
The way the Coupe goes and slows is simply exceptional. The 135i gets a remarkable twin-turbo petrol engine, that blasts it to 60mph in only 5.1 seconds. That’s in the same league as an Aston Martin V8 Vantage! But the two diesels are brilliant too, particularly the twin-turbo 123d. This 2.0-litre four-cylinder has 204bhp and hits 60mph in just 7.0 seconds – and is one of the best diesels we’ve ever driven. Even the single-turbo 120d is impressive, and all 1-Series Coupes are backed up by excellent brakes. It’s a pity the chassis isn’t up to the same standard. It’s well balanced and wieldy to drive, but the suspension isn’t that supple. The BMW gets pitched around, so the steering requires constant correction, which limits your confidence in the car. It doesn’t truly come alive – instead, it feels slightly numb and disinterested.