Check out the new BMW M135 xDrive

It would be fair to say that the BMW M135i xDrive has never quite captured the imagination like previous fast 1 Series did. Even against comparable all-wheel-drive, automatic, 2.0-litre turbocharged rivals, the M Performance 1 Series has always wanted for a bit more edge in virtually every department. The 128ti was a step in the right direction – and now there’s a fourth generation 1 Series, headed up by a new M135 xDrive. 

Note that’s without the ‘i’ at the end of the name, as BMW is ceasing its use on combustion-engined models to prevent any confusion with its electric i cars. Fundamentally, though, the configuration is similar from old M135i to new M135: the 2.0-litre B48 turbo four makes 300hp, xDrive AWD scoots it to 62mph in less than five seconds, and there are four exhaust pipes to let everyone else know this is no mere 120. There are one or two interesting changes for the flagship 1 Series this time around, however, including the introduction of the seven-speed DCT (where once an eight-speed torque converter resided) – although there’s no explanation for the swap as yet. Let’s hope it can introduce some excitement to a powertrain that’s always needed it. 

BMW also claims that the handling of its hot hatch will be improved thanks to increased rigidity, plus new damper technology, optimised kinematics and 20 per cent more front caster. The rest of the interesting stuff looks set for the M135 options list, though does at least demonstrate that BMW might be keen to make the 1 Series fun again. The extras are set to include an M Technology Package with ‘specific suspension components, stiffness and lightweight measures’, M Compound brakes and lighter alloy wheels. We can but hope that some of the M fairy dust from further up the range makes it to the 1 Series. 

Inside, the M135 – and the rest of the new 1 Series range, in fact – gets brought bang up to date with BMW’s latest interior design language, plus the addition of iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9, which might make this the first application of it. The BMW Curved Display uses a 10.25-inch driver’s display and 10.7-inch infotainment screen. A leather-free cabin is available, with the promise of a ‘modern premium ambience with sporty accents and generous space for up to five occupants’. Given the mess made by some car makers and their small hatch interiors of late, a quick sit in the new BMW might prove very persuasive. 

Plus it would mean a distraction from the outside. Never known as the prettiest BMW in the world, the 1 Series probably won’t win any additional fans for its styling the fourth time around. There’s some X2 influence to the rear, a bit of new M3 in the headlight redesign and ‘hallmark BMW proportions’; it’s probably more memorable than what came before, so that’s something, though whether it’s better is hard to say. Marking out the M135 from a standard 1 Series are bigger intakes, ‘pronounced’ side skirts and a more aggressive rear diffuser. The standard 18-inch wheels will eventually be upgradeable to 19s. As for colours, there will be two solid paints and seven metallics offered. For the first time ever on a BMW, a black contrast roof will be offered, and the Individual paints will be optionally available.

On sale from today, the new 1 Series will be with customers from October. The price is £29,950 for a 120 with the mild-hybrid three-cylinder turbo (RRP, excluding on-the-road costs) or £41,000 for the M135 (again RRP). Perhaps the ‘extensively improved chassis technology’ can finally unlock what potential there is in the xDrive 1 Series – alternatively, you could take a punt on the previous version, which is available for a little over £20k.