These spy pictures show the most potent version of the new BMW 1-series, which is set to launch alongside the new three-door model later this year.
A BMW M insider confirmed to Autocar that the new model was likely to wear the M135i badge and would be part of the firm’s upcoming M Performance Automobiles line-up.
See pictures of the new BMW M135i
According to the insider the M135i model, pictured here in testing for the first time, was likely to be powered by the same 316bhp turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine found in the BMW 640i.
Like all M Performance models, the M135i will also sport a whole host of chassis and styling tweaks as part of its makeover. Insiders say the model should be viewed as a three-door hatchback version of the current 135i coupé, with a more focused M-honed chassis and more muscular styling.
The spy pictures also reveal the look of the three-door 1-series for the first time. It gets a gently sloping roofline and a more angular rear glasshouse for a sleeker profile than the five-door model.
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Re: Hottest BMW 1-series spied
This decision by BMW to introduce a 'M Performance Automobiles Line-up' leaves the door open to move the M vehicles further up market? Or is that just me being cynical. As some have already pointed out, the perfomance difference and kit difference between existing M products and these new 'M Performance' models could become very slim. Clearly BMW is aware of that, which begs the question will BMW increse the difference by moving the M cars to a higher price point, like Mercedes has with Black Series versions of its AMG range?
Re: Hottest BMW 1-series spied
An M150d xDrive would weigh about 1615kg as an F20 (5 door) and 1595kg as an F21 (3 door). I wouldn´t worry too much about the handling as BMW destest the Audi understeer and avoiding that is a priority. The Autocar idea that "they forgot the handling" is a rather strange notion and hardly a representative one.
What would be interesting to hear is what competitors an M150d xDrive would have. Would there be anything similar?
Re: Hottest BMW 1-series spied
Confident about the handling? A recent 1 series road test by Autocar said 'shame they forgot the handling'.