The 1 series died for many enthusiasts when BMW retired the second generation model in 2019. Compact slanted rears are still a lucrative segment even in the SUV age, which is why the Bavarian brand continues to sell a 1 Series. Like its F40 predecessor, the new F70 is a car with front-wheel drive that reproduces the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class. These two competitors offer performance derivatives that are based directly against the M135.
But how much speed do you get from the smallest M -Performance -car from BMW? A new video on an unreserved section of the highway shows the M135 in full inclination. Painted in Thundernight Metallic, the 1 series is built on European specifications. As a result, the “B48” engine is selected to 296 hp to meet the harder emission rules of the EU. Elsewhere, the turbocharged 2.0-liter device pumps 312 hp. The torque does not change, with all markets preserving the same 400 Nm (295 LB-FT).
Although it is The new M135 is not a six -cylinder M140i and offers an appropriate performance for daily use. Sure, it is not nearly so exciting, without a large 3.0-liter N55 engine, but we have to view the M Performance 1 series as a VW Golf R-Rivale and not something of a higher pen. The days of RWD 1 generations are long gone and they do not return. Emission regulations have strangled performance cars, And from here it only gets worse.
Like its predecessor, the M135 is only sold with XDrive. BMW has not yet said anything about making another front-wheel drive 128ti a competition with the Golf-GTI. More variety would be great, but do not expect manual gears to return. There is simply no solid business case for a hot swallow flap, since even the GTI and R have dropped the manuals for 2025. Three pedal fans can still get a Honda Civic Type R or a GR crown, but how long?
The M135 fits into the bill for a compact all-rounder with some performance chops, although it does not match the M140, which is no longer existing. The attractiveness of the new model is also negatively influenced by the controversial styling and the simplified interior, in which the iDrive dial is nowhere to be found. The sales figures show whether the downgraded 1 series remains an appealing offer in the compact luxury segment.
Video: Autotopnl / YouTube
