We just learned that BMW has officially replaced the 1 Series with a brand-new model that not only looks different but is also more interesting and possibly US-bound. The best version of the cute hatchback is the M135 xDrive. Here's what's worth knowing, besides the fact that its front end is surprisingly similar to the 2020 Kia Sportage's face from afar.
But that's just an unfortunate visual similarity that could happen with any other car.
The most important tidbit about the new M-ified 1 Series is that it comes with different power outputs. Per BMW, the hot hatch puts out 296 hp or 312 hp, depending on the market where the vehicle is sold. That could be an indication that the M135 xDrive is coming to the US. Typically, new cars that are sold in both US and Europe develop more power on the left side of the pond because there aren't as many restrictions as on the Old Continent.
We asked BMW about it, but the marque refused to confirm or deny that a stateside arrival might happen. However, the marque's spokesperson didn't say no.
Moreover, one cool thing BMW launched with the 1 Series is the Xperi TiVo video app, which includes a healthy portfolio of streaming platforms and television channels. The Bavarian marque thinks you might want to check your favorite game while stuck in traffic or listen to a concert while waiting for your kids to jump inside the car.
That's cool and might come in clutch for some commuters, but what's of interest to us is that BMW made it clear that the app is available in the US, the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and South Korea.
Besides the Xperi TiVo app availability, there's the AirConsole gaming feature, which is supposed to make traveling with a buddy or a kid much more entertaining. Using the iDrive 9 infotainment screen and a smartphone (or more) paired to the car, you could play games like "Who wants to be a Millionaire?" The AirConsole is available in multiple countries, which include Canada and the US.
Photo: BMW
So, there's a chance that the 2025 BMW 1 Series could come stateside. We just need to wait for an official confirmation. Let's hope that the German automaker won't change its mind.
Other notable things we should remember about the M135 xDrive, it's the fact that it rides on 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, it has a specific suspension setup that increases rigidity for an improved spirited driving experience, and it comes with M Sport Boos and M Launch Control.
BMW thought you might want to take this car to the track, so it created 19-inch light alloy wheels and it'll even offer track-specific tires to those willing to pony up.
The seven-speed automatic transmission has an integrated mechanical differential lock that can reduce the speed difference between the front wheels. Paired with all-wheel drive, that brings us an M135 xDrive that can send power to the rear axle and choose what needs to be prioritized when the driver puts the pedal to the metal and the road begs to be driven on with haste.
Finally, this is the only new 1 Series that shows off its exhaust system tailpipes.
Car shows on TV and his father's Fiat Tempra may have been Florin's early influences, but nowadays he favors different things, like the power of an F-150 Raptor. He'll never be able to ignore the shape of a Ferrari though, especially a yellow one. Full profile
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