The new BMW 1 Series will present itself at the 2019 IAA in the form of the top model M135i xDrive. But this is not your ordinary 1 Series. The BMW M135i xDrive features the new Storm Bay Metallic paint which was first seen on the BMW X1 Facelift. The M135i xDrive is the only model variant to feature the BMW kidney grille in a distinctive mesh design.

Its surround and three-dimensional elements come in Cerium Grey, likewise the additional model-specific trim of the outer air intakes and the mirror caps. Like the BMW M rear apron, the other elements of the exterior mirrors come in High-gloss Black.

As with M Sport specification, the window graphic surrounds adopt BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line trim, while the M135i xDrive also comes exclusively with a BMW M rear spoiler in body color.

Using the front-wheel drive architecture from BMW, the new hot hatch is still sending power to all four wheels, but this time, from a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbo engine. This engine is the BMW Group’s most powerful four-cylinder engine, extracting 225 kW (306 hp) between 5,000 and 6,250 rpm and has a peak torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) 1,750 rpm and stays there up to 4,500 rpm.

The flagship model races to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in just 4.8 seconds (4.7 seconds with M Performance package), while top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph).

A newly developed twin-pipe exhaust is also standard, with tailpipes measuring 100 millimeters in diameter.

BMW M135i xDrive is delivered from the factory with bespoke polished 18-inch light-alloy items. Newly designed 19-inch light-alloy wheels are optionally available for this and the M Sport model.

In Europe, the BMW M135i xDrive is available only with an automatic gearbox, starting at 48,900 Euros.

 

The top model is particularly evident in the design accents in Cerium Gray, which clearly differentiate the M135i from the less motorized 1s with the M Sport package.

The sportiest variant of the 1 Series F40 always comes with four-wheel drive, while the weaker entry-level models rely on the class-typical front-wheel drive.

[Photos: 7-forum.com]