MONTEREY, California - Europeans have always taken to smaller cars. High fuel prices are part of the reason. But Europeans also favor vehicles that promise precise handling and nimble road manners. That lets out most larger automobiles.

BMW launched its 1 Series in Europe a couple of years ago, to considerable acclaim. For a while, it was uncertain whether the smaller-size BMW two-doors would ever reach American shores. American enthusiasts have put the 3 Series near the top of their "wanted" lists for a long time. Would they fall equally hard for a more compact cousin?

Well, BMW is indeed bringing the 1 Series to the U.S., in both coupe and convertible form. Judging by an early test-drive, this new compact model delivers virtually all the expected BMW virtues. It doesn't even seem especially smaller than an equivalent two-door 3 Series model.

With the 1 Series, BMW is actually looking into the past, to the period when the model 2002 captured the hearts of an earlier generation of BMW devotees. The new 1 Series is a "spiritual successor to the 2002," said communications manager Robert Mitchell. BMW launched the 2002 coupe in 1968. This is "BMW distilled to its purest form," added product manager Anthony Foulk. Differing in various details from its larger cousin, the 1 Series is "not to be confused as a small 3 Series."

Of course, things have changed over those past 40 years. BMW admits that the current 3 Series is about the size of the 5 Series from a few years back.

Two versions will be offered, each with its own engine. The 128i gets a 230-horsepower, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, capable of 0-60 mph acceleration in a claimed 6.1 seconds. Power-mad buyers will likely gravitate toward the 135i duo, with its twin-turbo six-cylinder engine generating an abundant 300 horsepower, which finishes the 60 mph run a second faster.

An abbreviated whirl around Monterey in a 128i convertible with an automatic transmission demonstrated that BMW has another winner on its hands. Just about everything that's likable about the 3 Series can be found in the 128i, which qualifies as another serious driver's car.

Operation of the refined automatic transmission is barely noticeable at higher speeds, but more evident at lower velocities. Paddle shifters work easily and effectively, though the way they're used to go up or down a gear is different than some rivals. There's little penalty with automatic in terms of response and abundant energy. Most buyers should be content with the 128i, rather than find themselves yearning for the additional power in a 135i model.

Like most BMWs, the 128i soft-top has a very tight overall feel, and promises precise control. The firm ride sometimes approaches stiffness, but it doesn't quite reach that point. Quiet running is another satisfying virtue.

Front seats are outstanding: comfortable and spacious, with essentially the same feel as a 3 Series. Side bolstering isn't particularly snug, but it does keep you securely in position. Backseat space is snug, especially if the front seat is pushed back somewhat.

Rear visibility is definitely limited with the top up, due to a squat back window, partially blocked by headrests if they're not all the way down. Over-left-shoulder views are excellent, but expect a big blind spot when trying to see over your right shoulder. Smallish mirrors hinder visibility a bit, too.

Coupes go on sale March 22, starting at $29,375 for the 128i edition. The 135i coupe goes for $35,675. Convertibles reach dealerships by May 1, priced at $33,875 and $39,875, respectively.

Attention Editors: The complete 2008 BMW 128i review is available now for your publication. Please contact us at JF@tirekick.com for details.