We told you the story and showed you the spy pictures, but today, BMW officially revealed the new M135i sports hatch, ahead of its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show.
Despite the fact that the Bavarian company is calling it a concept, it’s not hard to see that the M135i is essentially ready to enter production, which it will within the next year.
Aside from previewing the next member of BMW’s new M Performance range, the M135i also gives us our first look at the three-door version of the latest 1-Series range, which is currently available only in five-door form.
BMW’s answer to the Audi RS3 is the first M Performance car with a gasoline and not a diesel engine. Under the hood lies a 3.0-liter Twin Power Turbo straight-six that BMW says delivers “more than 300 HP”. Our sources state that it will produce 320-horsepower in production trim.
Other upgrades include a reworked suspension, larger brakes and 18-inch M light alloys with a double spoke design.
The concept model that will be on display in Geneva sports an aero kit comprising a new front bumper with large air intakes, a different rear bumper with a diffuser and double tailpipes in a dark chrome finish, while the sides of the body and the lower end of the tailgate are adorned by decals in the distinctive M Division blue and red colors.
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