2013 BMW 135is: First Look
- Competes with: Audi TTS, Infiniti G37 coupe
- Looks like: A possible placeholder for the next 1 Series M?
- Drivetrain: The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine makes 320 hp in this application
- Hits dealerships: This fall
BMW may have canceled the 1 Series M for 2012, but a sport-tuned model is coming to the lineup for 2013. Coupe and convertible versions of the BMW 135is go on sale this fall.
The 2013 135is coupe and convertible will cost $44,145 and $48,845, respectively (including $895 destination and handling) and feature a slew of performance-oriented enhancements. Both models use the 135i’s direct-injected twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-cylinder, but it makes 320 horsepower and 317 pounds-feet of torque in this application — up 20 hp and 17 pounds-feet over the traditional model. A six-speed manual transmission is standard; a seven-speed double-clutch automatic is optional on both body styles.
Other performance upgrades include a sport suspension and a performance exhaust system. For extra fun, BMW recalibrated the car’s traction control system, giving it a higher threshold before it activates. “This allows the driver to experience more spirited driving on dry roads and offers more flexibility when driving in more challenging conditions such as in snow,” BMW said in a statement.
Model-exclusive exterior updates — unique 18-inch wheels, a high-gloss black kidney grille, black mirror caps and specific badging — add on to the M Sport Package and add some visual drama. The interior is decked out with more badges, stainless-steel pedals and standard black sport seats with blue contrast stitching.
As for the 2012 1 Series M, we’ve inquired as to whether the car was officially canceled, but haven’t heard back yet.
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