The 1 Series is still not deserving of the full-fat M treatment, but the M135i xDrive, which has been on the market for less than three years, is getting a series of mechanical improvements.
The Volkswagen Golf R, Audi S3, and Mercedes-AMG A35 will all be competing against this improved and updated variant. Keep in mind that this isn't a mid-cycle upgrade, which BMW refers to as Life Cycle Impulse (LCI).
While the feisty hatch is being pushed aggressively through the bends, re-calibrated springs and dampers enhance roll behavior. The mounts for the trailing and control arms at the rear axle have also been fine-tuned by the engineers. The front axle has new hydro mounts for attaching the front suspension wishbones, and the rear axle has a new hydro mount for attaching the rear suspension wishbones.
Under the hood, a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine produces 302 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque, which is distributed to all four wheels. The mechanical limited-slip differential integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission remains in the M135i xDrive.
It also comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, with a bigger 19-inch set available as an option, and the camber values have been raised to help absorb later forces while cornering.
The fake engine sound blasted via the interior speakers has been tweaked by BMW. With BMW now providing Individual paintwork for the standard 1 Series, it's only natural that the M135i xDrive receives the same treatment.
Sao Paulo Yellow hue, Frozen Pure Grey, and Frozen Orange are three new colors.