Munich. BMW has honed the track-inspired
characteristics of its four-cylinder high-performance model for the
premium compact segment. Detail upgrades to its chassis components
endow the BMW M135i xDrive (fuel
consumption combined: 7.8 – 7.3 l/100 km [36.2 – 38.7 mpg imp] as per
WLTP; CO2 emissions combined: 177 – 167 g/km as per WLTP) with
noticeably enhanced performance qualities. And the retuned drive
soundtrack in the cabin makes the driving experience even more
emotionally engaging.
The standout power of the 225 kW/306 hp four-cylinder unit with BMW
TwinPower Turbo technology under the bonnet of the BMW M135i xDrive is
harnessed more effectively than ever to produce the captivating
dynamics and driving experience for which BMW is renowned. Detailed
set-up modifications for the bespoke chassis technology result in even
better mounting, ensuring precisely controllable driving
characteristics even when pushing hard on the track. The optimised
traction enables drivers to explore the car’s performance limits with
confidence, especially when cornering at extremely high speeds.
Sharper cornering dynamics thanks
to optimised camber values, new mounts, and precision tuning of
spring and damping systems.
The camber values for the front wheels of the BMW M135i xDrive have
been increased to optimise absorption of lateral forces when powering
through corners. A new hydromount has additionally been used to attach
the front suspension wishbones, while the mounts for the trailing and
control arms at the rear axle have also been redesigned. At the same
time, the spring and damping systems have undergone recalibration. The
result is a significant improvement in roll behaviour in corners,
which has a further beneficial effect on steering feel when the car’s
sporting abilities are put to the test.
This latest raft of modifications reinforces the commitment of the
BMW M135i xDrive to delivering BMW’s hallmark driving pleasure. Its
chassis technology combines with the engine’s extremely sporty
performance characteristics and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive
to create a flawlessly composed overall package for a richly engaging
drive. The compact BMW M model comes as standard with near-actuator
wheel slip limitation integrated into the engine control unit. The
resultant shortening of the signal paths allows traction to be
controlled up to ten times faster than with conventional systems when
pulling away, on slippery surfaces and during dynamic cornering. The
BMW M135i xDrive additionally benefits from a mechanical limited-slip
differential at the front axle. Built into the car’s standard
eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, it enhances traction and
directional stability along with agility and cornering dynamics. With
locking factors of 36 per cent when accelerating and 26 per cent on
the overrun, the differential is capable of transferring extra torque
to the front wheel with better grip as and when required. The
customary Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) functions are complemented
in the BMW M135i xDrive by Performance Control, which optimises the
car’s steering behaviour with judicious applications of the brakes.
Specially tuned M Sport steering and exceptionally powerful M Sport
brakes can also be found on the standard equipment list for the BMW
M135i xDrive. The compact sports car leaves the factory on 18-inch M
light-alloy wheels as standard, with the option of 19-inch light-alloy
items available in a variety of designs.
Dramatic acoustic experience in the cabin.
The twin-tailpipe exhaust system facilitates power delivery from the
engine with its reduced backpressure, while also producing a
characterful acoustic accompaniment. The distinctive, emotion-stirring
sound is also transmitted into the interior, where it is carefully
amplified through the audio system’s speakers.
The revised soundtrack conveys the signature four-cylinder engine
note of a BMW M model to those on board more authentically than ever.
The instant response to every movement of the accelerator is
translated into corresponding acoustic signals. From the powerful
building of torque under acceleration through to the drop-off in load
on the overrun, the power unit’s operating state is clearly
discernible at all times. Starting the engine prompts a sound
composition specially created for this model, adding another facet to
the rich acoustic experience inside the car.
New paint finishes for a high-impact look.
A new selection of particularly striking paint finishes has been
introduced to accompany the performance enhancements and underscore
the individual character of the BMW M135i xDrive. BMW Individual paint
finishes and special customer requests can also now be incorporated
into the manufacturing process at BMW Group Plant Leipzig, where the
compact model is built. The special colours require additional
servicing and technical support work, with an increased number of
manual processes. To cater for this, an existing paint shop was
modified and the number of employees working there increased by ten.
The BMW Individual paint finishes bring even greater visual impact to
the high-performance model’s modern design language and bespoke
styling features. New additions to the range of exterior colours for
the BMW M135i xDrive include the M paint shade Sao Paulo Yellow
non-metallic, as well as the Frozen Orange metallic and Frozen Pure
Grey finishes.