The sharp version of the number one is still powered by a petrol four-cylinder with an output of 225 kW. However, it got a redesigned chassis, as well as an otherwise tuned engine sound.
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In 2019, BMW launched its first compact hot hatch with a classic concept for this type of car – with the engine at the front across it, in the form of the top version of the 1 Series, the M135i xDrive model. After only two years on the market, however, the car underwent its first innovations.
These focused primarily on the chassis, the aim is to ensure better performance in sports driving and more efficient use of engine capabilities, which still remains a supercharged petrol two-liter with an output of 225 kW. BMW promises better traction for greater confidence in examining the car’s limits, as well as more precise control and better driving characteristics when driving on circuits.
And how did the designers achieve this? The front wheel deflection values have been increased to further enhance the ability to absorb lateral forces when cornering. Hydraulic silent blocks were newly used to connect the lower wishbones of the front axle to the body, while the transverse and longitudinal arms of the rear axle were also redesigned. There has also been a re-tuning of the springs and shock absorbers, as a result of which there are also smaller inclinations of the body in corners.
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M sports steering or M sports brakes remain the standard, as does the anti-slip system integrated in the engine control unit. This solution shortens the signal paths between the individual components and provides up to ten times faster slip control than conventional systems, especially when starting off on slippery surfaces and during dynamic cornering. Traction and agility are also aided by a mechanical self-locking front axle differential, which is integrated in the standard eight-speed automatic.
However, BMW also fine-tuned the car’s sound system, which provides an exhaust system with two tailpipes and an amplifier in the cab, via the speakers of the audio system. According to the manufacturer, the sound of the car is now more authentic and immediately responsive to the response of the accelerator pedal. In addition, you will experience special sound compositions at start-up.
In addition, the carmaker recalls that The 1 Series is now also available in colors from the BMW Individual range. Specifically, there is a non-metallic yellow varnish M Sao Paulo Yellow, as well as matt metallic varnishes Frozen Orange (orange) and Frozen Pure Gray (gray).
At the moment, it is not clear whether the innovations of the BMW M135i xDrive after only two years were planned in advance or whether they responded to previous experience. From our impressions so far, it follows that The M135i xDrive is infernally fast, but as a result a rather boring hatch. Will this change the adjustments made?
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