BMW Adds M135i and 3-Door Model to 1 Series | BMW

BMW 1 Series

M135i and 3-door Models Added to 1 Series

The BMW 1 Series, previously only available as a 5-door model since its launch, will now include a 3-door version. Additionally, the 'M135i',concept modelwhich debuted at the Geneva Motor Show as a concept, will be mass-produced in 3-door, 5-door, and all-wheel-drive 'xDrive' variations.

Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

Largely Unchanged

A 3-door variant joins the second-generation 1 Series. However, with longer doors, the profile, particularly the side windows, presents a slightly different impression. Otherwise, it remains largely the same as the 5-door model, with identical dimensions: 4,324mm (length) x 1,765mm (width) x 1,421mm (height) and a 2,690mm wheelbase. Interior dimensions are also the same. The body, extended by 85mm in length and 30mm in wheelbase compared to the previous generation, offers 21mm more rear legroom and an additional 30 liters of luggage space.

The model range also remains extensive. The '114i' and '116i', powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger, produce maximum outputs of 75kW (102ps) at 4,000rpm and 100kW (136ps) at 4,350rpm, respectively, with peak torque figures of 180Nm at 1,100rpm and 220Nm at 1,350rpm. They accelerate the 1,285kg vehicle from 0 to 100km/h in 11.2 and 8.5 seconds, respectively. Like the 5-door model, they feature 'ECO PRO' mode, 'VALVETRONIC' variable valve control, and 'Double VANOS' variable camshaft timing, boasting fuel economy of 5.5ℓ/100km and CO2 emissions of 129g/km on the EU test cycle.

The '125i' weighs 1,340kg. It is equipped with a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 160kW (218ps) at 5,000rpm and 310Nm of torque between 1,350-4,800rpm. 0-100km/h acceleration takes 6.4 seconds. Fuel economy is 6.6ℓ/100km, with CO2 emissions at 154g/km.

The '116d', '118d', and '125d' models are all powered by a 2-liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine. Their respective maximum outputs are 85kW (116ps), 105kW (143ps), and 160kW (218ps) at 4,000rpm, with peak torque figures of 260Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm, 320Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm, and 450Nm at 1,500-2,500rpm.

BMW's Best Environmental Performance: The 116d EfficientDynamics Edition

Additionally, the diesel engine lineup includes the 1.6-liter 4-cylinder '116d EfficientDynamics Edition'. Through engine component optimization and aerodynamic improvements, this model achieves BMW's highest environmental performance, with fuel economy of 3.8ℓ/100km and CO2 emissions below 100g/km at 99g/km. It produces 85kW (116ps) of power and 260Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.

All models come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. An 8-speed automatic transmission is available as an option for all models except the 114i and 116d EfficientDynamics Edition.

Furthermore, starting in November, the '118i' with 125kW (180ps) of power, the '120d' with 135kW (184ps), and the all-wheel-drive '120d xDrive' will be introduced. The '120d xDrive' will also be added to the 5-door model lineup.

M135i Production Confirmed

The most significant announcement in this release is the confirmation of mass production for the 'M135i'. OPENERS has already reported on the unveiling of theconcept modelbut this model will be launched under 'M Performance Automobiles', a new brand established by BMW M GmbH for owners who desire sporty driving without compromising everyday usability and practicality.

Beneath the hood lies a 3-liter inline 6-cylinder twin-scroll turbo engine, marked 'M Performance' on its cover. It produces 235kW (320ps) at 5,800rpm and 450Nm of torque between 1,300-4,500rpm, accelerating the 1,425kg vehicle from 0 to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds (4.9 seconds with the 8-speed automatic). Fuel economy is 8.0ℓ/100km, with CO2 emissions at 188g/km.

Visually, it distinguishes itself from the standard models with a large air intake, slightly flared side skirts, 18-inch double-spoke wheels, blue brake calipers, and distinctive dual tailpipes.

Two transmission options are available: a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. The manual transmission is a sporty unit with a dry-sump lubrication system, often found in recent BMW M models. The automatic transmission features paddle shifters and a 'Sport+' driving mode.

In addition to the 3-door version, the 'M135i' will also be available as a 5-door model, with all-wheel-drive 'M135i xDrive' variants offered for both the 3-door and 5-door body styles.

BMW has also released a video showcasing the 'M135i' in a 'game of tag', highlighting its performance with its four-piston front and two-piston rear brakes, large brake discs, high-grip tires, and dedicated suspension.