If you first look at the all new 2012 BMW 1 Series, you might not immediately recognize that it has been refreshed. So, if you don't already know, we'll walk you through the subtle changes, starting with the most obvious… the 128i Coup and Convertible's front fascia.

When compared to earlier version, the front fascia of the 128i Coupe and Convertible looks far less conservative. The lower fascia has been re-sculpted and the fog light housings redone. Tucked discretely toward the outer edge of the fog light housings and barely visible in the photo are air ducts that are part of BMW's Air Curtain feature.

The exterior of the 135i Coupe and Convertible is changed even less. The top-of-the-line 1 Series already comes standard with the M Aerodynamic Kit and will not add Air Curtain in 2012. Headlights and taillights of both the 128i and 135i have, however, received a welcome refresh.

The Air Curtain feature, which directs high-pressure air from the front end to the sides of the front wheels to help combat the natural turbulence generated by the wheel's rapid rotation, was first introduced on the 1 Series M Coupe. It will now be standard on all 2012 128i models.

The interior, on the other hand, is where you'll see more drastic changes. A lux Glossy White interior trim is the latest option for the 2012 model year. In addition, select switches and controls have been refined, offering an improved look and feel.

The engine of the 128i remains the same powered by the 3.0-liter inline-six with 230 horsepower (hp) and 200 pound-feet of torque. The 135i, on the other hand, now boasts 300 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is the norm for both the 128i and the 135i. However, a six-speed automatic 128i and seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission (135i) are available too.

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