The 135i is the halo car of BMW’s new 1-series coupe line.
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The twin-turbocharged three-litre inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower (225 kW) and 300 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque from as low as 1,400 rpm and slings the Munich automaker’s new baby to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.3 seconds on the way to an electriconically-nannied 255km/h (155mph) is sure to have set certain (well-heeled) young pulses racing well ahead of the on-sale date.
The sporty flagship model will also have an aero kit for additional downforce at speed, better brake cooling and enhanced aesthetics and its sports suspension offers higher traction and reduced body roll with 18-inch wheels and performance tyres. The sports suspension also includes a high-performance brake system incorporating six-piston fixed callipers on the front and two-piston fixed callipers at the rear.
BMW describes the new line on sale later this year as “a modern and authentic performance coupe that draws inspiration from iconic 2002 models of some 40 years ago.
“By combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the 1 Series coupe will reinvent the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created.”
The coupe will initially be available in four versions: 128i, 135i, 123d and 120d. The 128i has a three-litre, 230hp I6 with Valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminium/magnesium contruction while the 123d has a new two-litre four-cylinder diesel with variable twin turbo and common-rail technology, developing 200 hp (150kW).
Few will argue that the 1-series – five-door available a couple of years now; three-door added recently – looks a whole lot better as a coupe than as a hatchback.
A fabric-roof convertible is expected to follow soon.
Inside, a 60/40 split rear seat is standard and the controller featured in the iDrive system with the optional navigation system is integrated in the centre console.
Trim options will include leatherette or Boston leather and an optional sport package includes sports buckets seats with enhanced side support.
