BMW introduced the 1-series last year, making it the starting point for a gradual upgrade in power, price and driving panache as owners graduate upward through BMW’s 3, 5, 6 and 7-series, where the top base price for a sedan can exceed $122,000. The 1-series puts a driver in a Beamer for under $30,000. The least expensive BMW is the 128i coupe with a 3.0-liter engine and 230 horsepower that also is available as a convertible for $4,600 more. Both use manual transmission. All of the 1-series are rear wheel drive and our tester was the 135i coupe (which also comes as a convertible for $3,300 more). It boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter engine with 300 horsepower and plenty of punch off the starting line. Enhancing the driving experience were $9,520 in options, including a premium package for comfort, a sports package that added 18-inch tires and high-performance braking, a voice activated navigation system, automatic transmission and satellite radio, among other add-ons.

Anyone who yearns to be a BMW owner will feel the effects of 40-plus years of German engineering that have made BMW’s one of the most desirable cars to drive, especially for anyone lusting for performance. Our 135i gobbled corners, shot past slower cars on the highway with an engine that grumbled with pride. The twin low-mass turbochargers are fed by direct gasoline injectors, resulting in instant response to power requests. The sophisticated suspension, sitting on the larger tires, meshes with dynamic stability and traction control to grip the road firmly and adjust tire spin when needed. BMW says the coupe’s setup is performance oriented and handling under stress proved it time and again. Speed tops out at 130 mph and the manual option switches on the steering wheel generated expected power. The 135i coupe’s rich red Boston leather seats with side bolsters are an indication of the high-quality materials, sport car orientation and inside fit and finish inside. Front seats are comfortable but the two rear seats are confined, as in most coupes. They fold down 60/40 for additional cargo space. Knick-knack areas are few and smallish.

BMW’s iDrive operates from a central knob that activates the 8.8-inch dashboard high-resolution monitor and can be used in conjunction with navigation and other voice commands. It offers numerous options and is easy to reach and use. The turn signal requires getting used to, with signals remaining off and requiring a measured touch to cancel. Safety features are excellent.