Given the 1-Series’ transition to a front-wheel drive platform, it is unlikely that a new BMW 1M will be launched. However, the new M135i xDrive fitted with M Performance Parts is almost as good as we’d expect an 1M to look.
The car, put on display during the ongoing press launch for the new 1-Series, looks exceptionally aggressive and has been adorned with heaps of new parts.
Also Read: BMW Wastes No Time Revealing New 1-Series M Performance Parts
Up front, it is the gloss black kidney grille of the hot hatch which make sit immediately stand out. We’re still not sold on this new-age of oversized kidney grilles, but they do look a little better when blacked out. Adding to the aggressive front fascia are subtle canards on either side of the bumper and a protruding front splitter.
The sides also stand out thanks to the presence of distinctive alloys in black and silver. There are also forged carbon fiber wing mirrors, an eye-catching livery, and custom side skirts. Rounding out the exterior design of this particular example are a forged carbon fiber rear diffuser and a large wing protruding off from the roof.
Powering the M135i is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumping out 302 HP . As the new 1-Series is no longer rear-wheel drive, the M135i won’t be the tail-happy monster its predecessor was. However, the AWD does promise to provide it with superb handling abilities and allow it to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in an impressive 4.8 seconds.