Soon after introducing the new 1-Series compact hatchback (F40), BMW took the wraps off a range-topping M135i xDrive wearing new M Performance Parts. The parts will go on sale simultaneously with the new 1-Series in late September 2019.
But before we go into any sort of detail, let us get just one thing straight: wouldn’t you say the car you see depicted here looks sort of like a mix between an A35 Mercedes-AMG and, say, a Hyundai i30N? You would? It does? We concur. The problem being, in our view, that BMW’s premium compact car has zero unique selling points in its market niche, and the latest M Performance kit does nothing to improve matters.
This isn’t even about looks this time, either. The tech is not mch better. Oh, the eight-speed automatic and AWD surely are nice, but how many of us would rather see an optional trim delivered with the rear drive? Modern V6 under the hood, maybe? Manual transmission? Sadly, none of this is even being considered for future releases.
What we get instead looks rather mundane. There is a front splitter with side winglets, side skirt extensions, a sporty-looking rear diffuser, and a large roof wing. The list goes on to include ‘aerodynamic’ side mirror caps, ornamental front grille inserts, larger brake discs with vivid red calipers, and alloy wheels available in 18 and 19 inches.
Interior options boil down to a new Alcantara-draped M steering wheel, a carbon paddle shifter, velour mats, and light projectors that project an image onto the asphalt whenever someone opens a door.
‘Boring’ pretty much sums it up, wouldn’t you say?
Photos: BMW