BMW M135i Concept hints at M Performance touches coming to compact gasoline segment

With the debut of the first BMW M Performance Automobiles at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the German automaker will showcase the BMW Concept M135i – which is based on the new 1-Series Euro hatchback and studies the first BMW M Performance model with a straight 6-cylinder gasoline unit.

So how this any different from the current BMW 135i with an M Sport Package? While the BMW M Sport Package is mainly about appearance, BMW M Performance vehicles have noticeably increased agility, precise handling and of course a more emotional and aggressive design.

Power for the BMW Concept M135i comes from a straight 6-clyinder unit that will use M Performance Twin Power Turbo technology with output reaching more than 300-hp that will be sent to the rear-wheels. BMW says that M Performance Automobiles characteristics are brought into the pictures with ‘model-specific suspension technology’ that includes an M sports braking system.

Design wise, the BMW Concept M135i features 18-inch M light alloys with a double spoke design, large air intakes, three-dimensionally designed flaps on the air intakes with three-dimensional modelling of the surfaces and the lower section of the rear apron finished in Dark Shadow metallic. The rear apron holds the double pipe exhaust system finished in dark chrome. BMW also added exterior mirror caps in Ferric Grey and side window surrounds in BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line.

So will it be produced? All BMW is saying right now is that the ‘pre-series concept car BMW Concept M135i offers a fascinating outlook on a corresponding offer in the premium compact segment.’

– By: Omar Rana