BMW Concept M135i

Next month’s Geneva Motor Show will see BMW unveil the latest addition to its new ‘M Performance’ line-up.

Although not quite as hardcore as full-on M cars like the M3 and M5, the M Performance models are nevertheless designed to offer sharper handling, sportier styling and a powerful engine.

The M550d xDrive, X5 M50d and the X6 M50d have already been announced as the first of the breed, but now it’s the turn of the F21 three-door 1 Series to get the M Performance treatment.

BMW Concept M135i (2012) Front Side

Powering the Concept M135i is a six cylinder petrol engine with Twin Power Turbo technology. For now, all BMW is saying is that it generates ‘more than 300 horsepower’, which makes it sound as if it could be very similar to the three-litre, 335 bhp (250 kW / 340 PS) motor that’s currently used in the 1 Series M Coupé.

As well as upgraded suspension, the Concept M135i also features 18” double-spoke alloy wheels, a sports braking system and bespoke aprons front and rear. The visual effect is completed by the traditional M ‘white and stripes’ colour scheme, which certainly suits the compact 1 Series.

Despite the ‘Concept’ prefix, it’s rumoured that a production version of the M135i will be arriving in dealer showrooms before the end of 2012.

BMW Concept M135i (2012) FrontBMW Concept M135i (2012) Rear Side

BMW Concept M135i (2012) SideBMW Concept M135i (2012) Rear

Related posts:
BMW introduces new M6
2012 BMW M5 revealed
BMW ‘M1’ here at last

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