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BMW’s M division has started development of an M version of the 1-series coupé, set to be equipped with a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 350bhp.

The new two-door, details of which were first uncovered by Autocar back in November, has now been added to BMW’s stable of future production models, with right-hand-drive UK sales set to begin in mid-2011.

Artist renderings of how th...Read the full article

Autocar:

BMW’s M division has started development of an M version of the 1-series coupé, set to be equipped with a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 350bhp.

The new two-door, details of which were first uncovered by Autocar back in November, has now been added to BMW’s stable of future production models, with right-hand-drive UK sales set to begin in mid-2011.

Just when I was thinking how to replace my 135i M Sport Coupe we get this super bit of news. If they can sharpen up the stability (ideally to 3 series standards), and keep the CO2 low it'll be just the job. Mind you in this weather the 135 is about as much use as a chocolate fire guard, good job I have a tired Skoda for trips in the snow. By the way this car still looks like Bangle design, even with the bulges. I reckon we will all miss his sculpted styling.

 this car is already hugely over priced for what it is   an M1 version will just be mad money! me personally i'd rather have a 3 series coupe  rides better interiors better and looks a lot better

Clever marketing but aint 8k a lot for an extra 48bhp and how much faster would it be in the real world than an already fast car.

Still if thats what lights your fire go and spend your "accessable 38k" . Just go and check my bank for my accessable stacks of 38k that I have laying about like everybody else at the moment .

    

 A good idea and concept but it really does need to carry the M1 moniker to get taken seriously.

At 38K is is pretty much the same cost as the E46 M3 when it was introduced at with similar power. Is it going to really be worth the extra 8K for 50Bhp and M division tweaks to the suspension over the 135i or even a remapped 135i? If they call it M1 then maybe yes but if not then anyones guess......

It should be M1 but unless they call it the M1 or maybe the Tii it is going to be a bit of a damp Squid if it ends up a 140i or something.

 

 £8k more for 48 bhp is a lot, but if drives like an E30 M3 could be money well spent.

 

Personally I'd dump the rear seats and all toys, add carbon fibre roof, boot, doors and bonnet, loose as much weight as possible and make it driver focused, the current 135i is close enough in terms of performance to satisfy those with comfort needs. I'd aim the M1 at a small niche and call it the 135tii not an M1.

I like the concept of a small powerful RWD car.
It's just a pity that BMW chose to put in a body that has the looks of a worn out shoe.

JezyG:

it is going to be a bit of a damp Squid

always thought Bangle's designs looked fishy.

Sales set to begin mid-2011?  Why so long to get it ready for production.  The 1-Series coupe isn't exactly a new model anyway.  By the time the "M1" hits the road how long a shelf life will it have after someone has shelled out their £40,000-plus for it (including the mandatory raft of optional extras you need on any BMW to be able to get rid of it secondhand).

As for using the "M1" name - it shows how desperate BMW are to get sales at any cost - including the expense of their heritage.  This dreadful looking car ain't an M1 proper, that's for sure!

It's a bit late in the life cycle of the current 1-series to be bringing out an M model, isn't it? Why don't they wait for the next generation?

icsunonove:

It's just a pity that BMW chose to put in a body that has the looks of a worn out shoe.

 

 

I actually like th look of this car, though I'll allow it's.. er.. quirky.

 

But I agree with other posters - why bother with the M1 namefor 50 odd bhp more ? Now the really interesting 1 series coupe would be the 135d, with the twin turbo diesel from the 335d...

A very exciting prospect. Sounds like great engine with good mpg. Lets hope the new 1 series coupe is lighter and looks better.