This is our first unofficial look on the upcoming
BMW 1-Series, here in top M135i guise, thanks to a set of images posted by
Bimmerfile. The two images reveal what looks like a final production example of
the BMW M135i xDrive resting under a cover that was lifted to reveal both ends
of the bodywork. The front fascia of the new baby Bimmer features a more pronounced
version of the brand’s kidney grille finished in satin aluminum that probably
is reserved for the M135i. The bumper follows suit with two vertical air
intakes on the sides and an aggressive black chin spoiler underneath the lower
grille.
Looking at the rear we can see that the whole
arrangement looks the same with every camouflaged test car we’ve seen so far; a
set of slim taillights makes the new 1-Series almost angry from behind,
especially when its combined with the M135i-specific rear bumper that
incorporates a two-tone finish, dual exhausts and prominent side air outlets
-which are probably fake. However, the M135i
xDrive you see in the pictures will employ a model-specific version of the
company’s all-wheel drive system, together with their new turbocharged
2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
The specific TwinPower Turbo engine made its debut
at the 2019 X2 M35i, producing 302 hp and 450 Nm of torque,
figures that we expect to see repeated here in the M135i xDrive. An eight-speed
automatic transmission is also expected to be the only option while the chassis
will feature a limited-slip differential on the front axle.
Another highlight of the new 1-Series will be the
ARB traction control system that debuted in the i3S. The ARB (actuator
contiguous wheel slip limitation) system features its controller directly on
the engine, enabling it to act 10 times faster than a traditional traction
control system and be more accurate with its interventions. This technology,
which will be standard fit to all 1-Series models, also works together with the
vehicle’s stability control and the new BMW Performance Control, with the
combination allegedly making the new M135i a much better drive than the
outgoing -and more powerful- six-cylinder M140i.
BMW is expected to launch the new 1-Series in Europe
towards the end of the year, with the model’s public debut rumored for the
Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
