BMW introduced the 2021 BMW 128ti as a direct rival for the Volkswagen Golf GTi. The 2021 BMW 128ti will sit below the range-topper BMW M135i xDrive due to the lack of four-wheel drive system and its lower output.
The name ti which is stands for Turismo Internazionale has been used befor by BMW on 1800Ti, 2002ti and etc and now the BMW 1-Series is the first BMW in 21th century to carry this name.
Under the hood there is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produce 261 hp and 400 nm of torque connected to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. Power sent to front wheels and enables the 128ti to hit 100 kph in 5.1 seconds.
The BMW 128ti is not just a fast hatchback in straight-line. BMW also improved its stability and ride by using a tuned M Sport suspension that lowered the car by 10 mm. Stiffer anti-roll bars and anti-roll bar mounts are all driven from the more powerful M135i xDrive and the car is also 80 kg lighter than the flagship M135i xDrive model.
Other highlights are M Sport braking system with red painted brake calipers, 18-inch Y-spoked 553 M alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, black kidney grille and mirror caps, side skirt trim, and a ‘ti’ badge. Inside the cabin there are ‘ti’ badge in the central armrest and contrast stitching interior.
Pricing for the 2021 BMW 128ti will start at $48,779 and it will go on sale from November.