2012 BMW 1 Series M Coupe: First Look
For the first time, BMW’s high-performance M heritage will be available on the automaker’s most affordable entry: the 1 Series.
The 2012 BMW 1 Series M coupe will feature a 335-horsepower, twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six producing 332 pounds-feet of torque. It’s equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The combination allows the coupe to accelerate from zero to 60 mph 4.7 seconds.
The vehicle is lighter than the standard 1 Series because of a sportier suspension system that is almost entirely made of aluminum, BMW says.
Exterior changes include redesigned side mirrors, larger and lowered front intakes, a chrome grille and a small spoiler lip. The coupe also has standard xenon adaptive headlamps with LED-encased rigs.
On the inside, there’s Alcantara trim and orange contrast stitching on black leather, as well as M logos embossed on the front headrest. The steering wheel has an “M Drive” button, which temporarily boosts peak torque to 369 pounds-feet.
The 2012 1 Series M coupe will go on sale later next year. The model will officially debut at the 2011 Detroit auto show next month.
