The BMW M135i sits in the top echelon of hot hatchbacks, with 316bhp and a 4.9sec 0-62mph time





























BMW’s new M135i looks set to shake up the hot hatchback class. It’s part of the company’s M Performance line up (like the diesel powered M550d) rather than a full-blooded M Car, but with a 3-litre turbocharged straight-six engine, its performance won’t be far off the 1-series M Coupe of 2011.

Its maximum outputs of 316bhp and 332lb ft are around 10 per cent shy of the 1M’s, but more than enough to place the M135i in the highest echelon of hot hatches. Only Audi’s 335bhp RS3 Sportback current bests it.

Unlike the Audi, the go-faster 1-series is rear-wheel drive, though xDrive all-wheel drive will be an option in left-hand drive markets. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, while an optional eight-speed automatic provides the M135i with its best performance figures, 0-62mph taking a claimed 4.9sec. The Audi RS3, aided by its Quattro traction, is around half a second quicker.

Fitted with BMW’s Efficient Dynamics tech, including stop start and brake energy recuperation, the M135i achieves a claimed 35.3mpg (37.7mpg if you pick the auto gearbox) and 188g/km (175g/km).

The M135i tops the new BMW 1-series three-door range, and looks good value at £29,995, the RS3 costing ten grand more while a £29,745 Volkswagen Scirocco R has just 261bhp. There’s set to be a five-door M135i, too. UK sales start this autumn.

 

But not in the USA

 

According to this article it might come later. Can anyone confirm please?

http://www.carbuzz.com/news/2012/5/1...M135i-7708794/

 

Don't do it! My 135i is slow as hell and totally lacking any feedback, too much insulation, weight and crappy BMW legendary quality.... But chicks dig it!

It is not a fun car but a decent status symbol as compliant DD, that's all.
It is so devoided of any sensational feedback.

I'd look into the upcoming Toyoburu coupe...

 

i saw that first pic and was all excited. then i saw the rear end...

 

The rear end is what makes the car, IMO. We need more hatches like this.

 

I want to see a one series with the new 2 L turbo engine in it

 

it was already available in the USA once. didnt go well

 

i love that its a hatch but the taillights are a bit goofy and the rear bumper could be a little more aggressive i suppose...

 

With the AWD, that's like a baby this:


Except no USA, fail.

 

its not that bad looking. I really liked the z4 coupe though

 

Not bad looking

 

Kinda reminds me of a 2dr Lexus ct200h

 

That car looks funny.

 

^ I never really got the purpose of a hatch.