M135i and M235i go to make way for M140i and M240i
The turbocharged 3.0-litre engine is new, from the B58 family, and replaces the single-turbo N55. In practice, it gains 14 bhp and delivers a maximum torque of 500 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 RPM. It matches the power delivered by the 1 Series M Coupé (E82), but with slightly improved performance. According to the manufacturer's technical data, acceleration 0-100 km / h improves 0.3 seconds over the previous generation, while achieving a slight reduction in consumption, 7%.
BMW has not detailed what has been done to achieve this reduction. The homologation is in a range from 7.8 to 8.4 l/100 km, depending on the body (the Cabrio weighs more and consumes more). You can opt for a six-speed manual gearbox (only with rear-wheel drive) or an eight-speed automatic. If we choose the latter, not only spends a little less, but the performance improves a little. In any case, it pays a 9.75% registration tax, as the reduction is not enough to lower the stretch.
The manual gearbox has a rev-matched function for smoother shifts... and it will extend the life of the clutch. Early versions of the turbocharged 3.0 that debuted in the 3 Series (335i E92) weren't available with a manual gearbox because they feared for the life of the clutch in certain hands. As for the all-wheel drive xDrive, they accelerate faster despite the logical fattening, because they have better traction.
Otherwise, there are no changes worth mentioning. The M140i and M240i, in any of its body styles (3p, 5p, coupe and cabriolet), have the suspension lowered 10 mm M Sport as standard, 18-inch M wheels with double spokes, reinforced brakes, variable assistance steering, M aerodynamic package and the mirror housings in gray. Inside, you'll find Alcantara seats with blue contrast stitching, M steering wheel and aluminum pedals/footrest.
Thanks to the existence of these engines, we accept that there could be three-cylinder versions for the entry-level versions, even if we don't like it very much. The 1 Series is still the only compact three-door and five-door on the market that has rear-wheel drive, until they kill it off and make it more front-wheel drive. The 2 Series seems to be "saved", for the time being.
