What is it?
The M135i is the first petrol-powered product of BMW's new M Performance sub-brand - makers of the M550d and M50d X5 and X6 models. Officially a 'design study', the 300hp turbocharged straight-six powered car not only previews a possible hot version of the 1 Series but also the three-door model of the baby B M.
Why's it here?
The M Performance brand has only been with us for five minutes but has alright set the world alight with what is essentially a diesel powered M5 (that will not be offered in Ireland - boo hiss). BMW is obviously keen to push the brand even further and sees a hot hatch to rival the best Volkswagen, Audi and Renault have to offer without getting too close to the 'official' M 1 Series, the 1M.
Show stopper or floor filler?
Revealed alongside new M6 models, 6 Series Gran Coupé, refreshed X6 and BMW's i cars, not to mention its M Performance siblings, the M135i may just get lost in the hustle, though we are looking forward to driving a production version...
