The 1-series BMW coupé/convertible has already caused sensation amongst customers. With the introduction of the first ‘affordable’ 1M, we come to see what more the 1M can offer…
· Design & Engineering:
Take a standard 1-series Coupé. Add Bavarian tuned sports car kit from front bumper to back bumper. Widen the wheel arches. Add 19-inch wheels. Upgrade the brakes. Increase the size of the front air vents. Add quad-exhausts. Add stripes. Christen the M-badge. Really—that’s what the boffins in Bavaria have done to the originally petite 1-series Coupé. The result? A more hardcore, muscular M approved vehicle. One simply cannot help but be impressed. The rear lift has a dual purpose—it serves as a mini spoiler, yet as a brake light. Overall, the most obvious change to the car would have to be the rear. The enhanced grooves and curves for increased aerodynamics, the warning exuded from the quad exhausts, along with the M badge.
· Interior
From the driver’s seat, one immediately notices the attention to detail, lovingly placed by the M-division. The Alcantara, orange stiched dashboard extends to where brushed aluminum would be. The squishy M steering wheel differs from a standard BMW steering wheel. For instance, an extra M button is featured for enhanced performance, and the leather is stiched in signature blue and orange stitching, topped off with an M badge on the bottom of the steering wheel. The speedometers are the real game changers. Unlike the standard white dials on black background, in the 1M, orange dials on a black / ash gray background reign, with the top speed reaching up till 300km/h. BMW’s intelligent i-Drive is featured in the 1M with crystal clear graphics, and connected to a Harman/Kardon sound system. Reminding one that even though an M is a power packed beast, comfort and safety is also taken into consideration. A start-stop button takes the place of a key slot, and along with automatic headlamps, etc. At the back, space is tight—no doubts about it, the 1M’s back seats are made for children, not adults. Another setback would be that no rear air conditioning is provided. Though, in such a monster, who cares about rear seat air conditioning when clinging onto your seats is much more important. Like the 1-series Coupé, rear boot space is surprisingly large enough to gobble up a golf bag or two.
· Ride & Handling
The powerhouse of the 1M is BMW’s renowned 3.0-liter, twin turbo charged engine, found in the 135i, 335i, 535i, 740i, X3, and X5. One thing. This already ‘hungry’ engine has the special touch from M GmbH. The elevated engine lets out a gentle, deep-throated growl, especially when starting the engine or revving it above 4000 revolutions. By the time the gearbox (auto/manual) has leaped into 4th gear, and one is soaring past competition. What I love about the engine is that in any gear and at any time, the 1M is always ready to push forward. With 340BHP on hand, the 1M still feels agile and zippy. Around tight corners, due to its small size and fantastic grip, one can zoom ahead with great confidence. Put together, the 1M is an amazing car to drive, anywhere, anytime. Indeed, good things come in small packages.
· Verdict
Exterior—either love it or hate it, rear legroom is tight. Overall, the sporty interior, and the great engine make it more lovable. Finally, a more affordable M series vehicle for the masses.
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