BMW M135 xDrive Is A Proper Petrol-Powered Hot Hatch

Gone are the days where hot hatch rivalries involve flyweight, 1,000kg track-derived monsters. Safety systems and strict CO2 emissions meant that cars simply cannot weigh as light as they once were.

Sure, electrification and its ease of power delivery made some question why petrolheads still harp on throttle responsiveness in naturally aspirated engines. Well, they ain’t built the same way, and resulting sensations won’t be comparable.

BMW has announced the force-fed M135 (note the removal of “i” at the back as we presume it’ll often be mistaken for their EVs). It weighs 1,625kg - a far cry from hot hatches of yore. But let’s face it, compared to current-day EVs strapped with bulky battery packs, this will still tug at the heartstrings of those craving for an older school, more visceral sensation. Let’s find out what BMW has concocted…

Slightly larger than predecessor

It now measures 4,361mm in length (an increase of 42 mm) with a 2,670mm wheelbase. The width is 1,800mm, and the height has grown by 25mm to reach 1,459mm.

M bits included

The BMW M135 xDrive showcases M-specific design features optimised for cooling and aerodynamics. It includes a front apron with large air intakes, side skirts, black M mirror caps, an M rear spoiler with a central air intake and a rear apron with diffuser. The front grille has double bars and an M logo, while the rear is distinguished by dual 90mm tailpipes.

Fiery turbo 4 pot

Its four-cylinder engine delivers 317hp. There’s adaptive M Chassis, sport steering and standard all-wheel drive, too. 0-100 km/h is dispatched in 4.9 seconds. M-specific enhancements include a strengthened crankshaft, optimised oil supply, upgraded main bearing components and a turbo with improved cooling.

Mechanical diff lock

Its 7-speed dual clutch transmission includes a mechanical differential lock to manage speed between the front wheels, enhancing traction and stability. Its xDrive all-wheel drive system distributes torque between front and rear wheels. This system uses a power take-off gearbox to redirect engine power from the front axle, and a hang-on clutch to send torque to the rear wheels when required.

---

Sell your car to us for up to $5,000 more than market prices. Get a quote now!