New BMW M135 1st Drive & Updated 1 Series Review!

Описание: The M135 xDrive video is sponsored by Manscaped! Get The Chairman™ Pro Package for 20% OFF + Free International Shipping this holiday season with promo code “RBR” at https://manscaped.com/removebeforerace

The 1 Series has seen quite the evolution over the last 20 years (though some any argue a devolution!) and now we welcome what BMW are calling the new generation F70 #BMW #M135 #1series. And we’re lucky to have it, because they could have followed the trend of axing hatchbacks in favour of SUVs and Sedans, like main rival Mercedes! Instead, we what appears to be a heavily redesigned F40 1 series, albeit with a reduced engine line up, at still a very reasonable price. A welcome rarity in today’s market!

What’s changed? Technically, not much! In fact, for performance it’s a little heart breaking. Like the F40, we are still based on BMW’s FAAR front drive platform as shared with Mini, X1, X2 etc. Essentially, it’s a big facelift, as this new model aims to refine the formula, retaining hatchback practicality while offering updated tech and a simplified engine lineup. And in the UK we have 2 cars, the 120 and the M135, not “I”, its now gone as they use it for EV only.

Design has been updated to be fair, which we will compare to the previous car. The front features a more aggressive design, with a revised grille, sharper LED headlights etc. The rear sees new lights like the X2, and the M135 is the only one to get exhausts, with a new quad pipe set up. What does the new M135 exhaust sound like? Tune in to find out!

Interior improvements are huge and welcome: they include the awesome new OS9 system, M seats with lighted logo, panoramic sunroof, a whole new interior dash, and more that we will go into.

PERFORMANCE

Just like the F40 it’s a far cry from its now cult classic predecessor. In fact, those 3% of purists who bought the M-lites in the past have been in uproar since the f40. To understand why, we will discuss what the 1 Series used to be, and explain the RWD longitudinal engine format vs the current transverse engine set up. We will thus cover from generation 1 E87, to the F20 M135i N55 powered car of Gen 2, the peak M140i B58, and the previous F40.

In terms of F70, all cars are automatic only, though every model does get a new 7 speed dual clutch replacing the old 8 speed now! A 2 series Gran Coupe is here too, as a body style option with much of the same in terms of engine, and a similar look too.


120 Sport: 1.5L inline-3 with mild hybrid, 170HP, 280NM, 0–60 in 7.8s. Starts at £31,000, offering good value in today’s market.
M135: 2.0L B48 inline-4, 300HP, 400NM, 0–60 in 4.9s. However, it’s 6HP and 50NM less than its predecessor, starting at £43,000.

The F40 was already 35hp less than the one before this, and 20HP less than the M135i of 12 years ago! What the heck is up with that?! So it appears to remain subdued compared to its iconic predecessors like the M140i, despite a starting price of £43,000.

However M say they have used more rigid suspension components, and improved m adaptive chassis with sport steering, and massaging to the other components like steering etc, in order to improve the drive.

Our test car features the M Sport Pro Pack (£2,075) with red calipers, M sport seats, and more, but requires the tech pack, making it £3,500 in total. And finally, the M Dynamic Pack at £3,000 — with M compound brakes in grey, 1085M lightweight wheels, sport tyres and a Dynamic Chassis Set up. Finally, we have the M sport design parts available which are quite extensive.

You’ll note from the performance figures, the body style, the drive train, it’s all very very similar to it’s Audi, VW, Ford and AMG rivals. Closest perhaps to the new A35 at 46k. While the M135 offers competitive pricing and solid performance, it faces stiff competition in a market where hot hatches are becoming increasingly refined.

So with its updated design, practical interior, and competitive pricing, is the F70 a worthy successor? Or will we still long for the days of rear-wheel drive and inline-6 engines? Let’s take it for a drive and find out!

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Sound effects obtained from www.zapsplat.comDj Quads - Game Time NBA2k17

Driving disclaimer:
All driving shots were filmed by professionals in safe environments or on closed roads. Please drive safely!