BMW M135i receives upgrades for 2022 including improvements to the chassis.
Two years after it was launched to less than stellar reviews, BMW has revealed an update for its M135i xDrive hot hatch in order to close the gap to superior hot hatchback rivals like the Volkswagen Golf R, Mercedes-AMG A35 and Honda Civic Type R. Tweaks range from suspension and chassis adjustments to the option of BMW’s extended Individual paint options. The updated M135i will arrive in Australia early next year.
Most significant are the chassis tweaks, with BMW claiming the updated chassis calibration offers improved roll behaviour and better high speed stability than the original. Front camber has been increased, springs and dampers re-tuned and suspension mounting points stiffened both front and rear.
Also new to the 2022 car is a new ‘optimised’ engine note, but these changes are restricted to the cabin. As before, the sound of its 2.0-litre turbocharged B48 four-cylinder is augmented by artificial sound pumped through the speakers; BMW claims it has made this sound more authentic and responsive to throttle movements.
Power output remains at 222kW and 450Nm of torque, leaving its 0-100km/h time at the same 4.8sec and top speed at 250km/h – these figures put it a tenth behind the Volkswagen Golf R in terms of acceleration, but a 270km/h top speed makes the VW faster. Drive is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission and through a front limited-slip differential as standard.
The M135i is also now available with a number of striking BMW Individual paint options, ranging from Sao Paulo Yellow seen on the G82 M4, to matt-finish Frozen Orange and Frozen Pure Grey.
Pricing and specifications for Australia will be announced closer to the updated model’s arrival.
Sam Jenkins