Is this the much discussed, but as yet unbuilt, successor to the original M3? BMW isn’t saying if it will make this lighter, lower version of the 1-series coupé, but it’s likely that something very similar will go into limited production next year. Named after the classic and highly desirable 2002 tii, the Concept 1-series tii is a motorsport-influenced, carbonfibre-rich two-door with a bespoke aerodynamic kit and a modified interior. The tii’s front and rear bumpers are new, along with the sill covers and bootlid, to improve the car’s aerodynamics. On the bootlid, a Gurney flap — a thin carbonfibre blade — increases downforce over the back axle. There are even fins on each side of the carbonfibre bonnet to improve airflow over the front of the car. As a result, BMW claims the tii is lighter and better-balanced than a standard 1-series coupé. It’s also lower (by 23mm) and slightly longer. Inside, the tii gets a severe-looking set of race seats, plenty of black Alcantara and contrasting white-painted trim on the dash, doors and steering wheel. The white-faced rev counter gets an oil temperature gauge.BMW won’t confirm the engine, but it’s likely to be a version of the 2005 320si’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit. And BMW has indicated it will have a turbo; the reversed tii logo on the bumper is a subtle nod to the original 2002 Turbo, which had ‘turbo’ written in reverse lettering in the same place. Although the 320si wasn’t particularly quick or powerful — 173bhp and 0-60mph in 8.1sec — its 7000rpm peak power delivery had something of the original M3’s engine, and its quick responses were well-received. In a lighter 1-series, with the tii’s efficient aerodynamics, performance could be much improved, especially with a turbo. Don’t expect the production car to be called M1 or tii, however. The most likely name for this 1-series is CS; BMW has always applied it to lighter, faster models.
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