New Car Review Areas


General Car Topics

2011 BMW 1 Series M Review

January 2011
Filed under: BMW Car News | BMW Headlines

Latest BMW Headlines

The letter M now comes to the segment of the BMW 1 Series to symbolise outstanding power delivery and the highly dynamic driving properties of a high-performance sports car. In the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, the technology of a high-performance car is combined with the agility and lightness of a compact model to create a whole new dimension of sports-style driving pleasure. With this 2-door model, BMW M GmbH is now realising for the first time in this vehicle class its concept of racing-oriented performance characteristics in a car developed for everyday use . This further extends the company's model range, paving the way for younger target groups to be able to access the hallmark driving experience offered by an M car.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe embodies the unmistakable M feeling in a highly concentrated form. Its in-line 6-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo and petrol direct injection develops a maximum output of 250 kW/340 bhp with an engine-speed-oriented characteristic curve typical of BMW M cars. With chassis technology derived directly from motor racing, a power-to-weight ratio reduced to 4.4 kilograms per bhp and precisely optimised aerodynamic components including innovative air curtains at the front end, supreme conversion of superior propulsion power into thrilling driving dynamics is guaranteed. The BMW 1 Series M Coupe accelerates in 4.9 seconds from zero to 100 km/h and reaches the 200 km/h mark after 17.3 seconds. In the area of efficiency, too, it achieves top figures within its performance category. Its average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres, while CO2 emissions are at 224 grams per kilometre.

The outstanding sporty flair of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is outwardly expressed by the athletic character of its body design. In the exclusively designed interior of the 4-seater, high-quality materials and an M-specific cockpit create the ambience of a premium sports car. In its standard configuration, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe displays the concept harmony so characteristic of M cars: able to cope both with the extreme demands of the race track and the diverse challenges of everyday traffic. What is more, individual preferences in terms of comfort, safety and infotainment can be fulfilled with a model-specific selection of equipment options also available for the BMW 1 Series Coupe, including the BMW ConnectedDrive program.

Design: classic coupe proportions, M-style aesthetic appeal.

The dynamic proportions with which the BMW 1 Series Coupe proclaims a brand of driving pleasure unique within the competitive field provide the perfect foundation for the instantly fascinating appearance of the first ever high-performance model in the compact segment. Measuring 4,380 millimetres in length and 1,420 millimetres in height, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is the both the shortest and the flattest model in the BMW M GmbH range. It is also 55 millimetres wider than the BMW 135i Coupe: the width of 1,803 millimetres is the result and the expression of a track width at the front and rear axle optimised to enhance driving dynamics in a way which is specific to this model.

The design of the front end impressively reflects the outstanding performance capabilities of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. The powerfully shaped front apron forms a homogeneous surface, dominated in the lower section by three large-format air intakes. In order to optimise the aerodynamic properties, so-called air curtains are used for the first time in serial production vehicle. The in-flowing air is routed into two ducts by means of openings in the outer section of the front apron. These openings are designed so that the air flows along the inside of the front apron in a closed duct to the wheel arches, where it is discharged through a very narrow opening at high speed, just passing the outer wheel flanks. The escaping air stream covers the side of the front wheels like a curtain, thereby reducing aerodynamically unfavourable turbulence around the wheel arches.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe is fitted as standard with bi-xenon headlamps. The twin circular headlights characteristic of the brand are truncated in the upper section by an LED-fed positioning light. This is what creates the typical focussed look of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe.

With the greenhouse conveying an impression of lightness, the powerfully distinctive shoulder line and the elaborately sculpted surfaces symbolise precisely controllable athleticism from the side perspective. The wheel arches of the 2-door model bulge out especially voluminously at both the front and rear. One hallmark M feature is the chrome gill element on the front wheel arch which is particularly elongated. It bears both the side turn indicator and the M brand logo, as well as forming the starting point of the bead line running via the door openers to the rear. What is more, a vertical contour edge starts at the gill element which leads down to the side sill. Fine-tuning in the wind tunnel has also shaped the design of the exterior mirrors. In their basic shape they are the same as those of the BMW M3.

The powerfully arched wheel arches also make the rear of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe seem especially broad. Horizontally arranged lines accentuate this impression. A discreet spoiler lip on the luggage compartment lid generates additional downforce on the rear axle at high speeds. The rear apron has side openings which echo the look of the air intakes in the front apron. The characteristic M visual symmetry is created by chrome twin tailpipes, each positioned towards the outer edges. L-shaped rear light clusters with red glass covers create a characteristic night-time illumination. Inside these, the rear light is provided by two light banks fed by LED units.

The exterior paint finishes Alpine White non-metallic, Sapphire Black metallic and the exclusive Valencia Orange metallic are available for the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. The standard 19-inch M light alloy wheels in Y-spoke design provide perfect road contact and a striking appearance.

In-line 6-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo and engine-speed-related performance characteristics. An in-line 6-cylinder engine with outstanding performance, sensational free-revving properties and long-lasting thrust provides the BMW 1 Series M Coupe with its power source for delivering supreme driving dynamics. The 3.0-litre power unit combines hallmark M performance characteristics with contemporary efficiency. It has been modified in M style so as to be able to handle the requirements of both everyday traffic and the race track. The result: with an engine output of 250 kW/340 bhp, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe achieves almost exactly the level of the third-generation BMW M3, while in terms of driving dynamics this compact, top-flight athlete is clearly superior to the latter model, which was replaced just a few years ago.

The M TwinPower Turbo Technology used in the BMW 1 Series M Coupe consists of two relatively small superchargers which, because of their low inertia moment, are active even at low engine speeds, each providing three cylinders with compressed air. This results in an unusually spontaneous level of responsiveness. The drivetrain provides its maximum torque of 450 newton metres at as little as 1500 rpm. This is available up into the 4500 rpm range and can be increased by another 50 newton metres in full throttle by means of an overboost function. The maximum level of 500 newton metres permits highly dynamic acceleration manoeuvres, and the forward thrust once again available after each gearshift makes for a linear speed increase typical of M vehicles. The engine reaches its maximum output at 5,980 rpm. With this engine-speed-related performance curve, the 6-cylinder power unit embodies the characteristic M properties of a high-performance engine: the BMW 1 Series M Coupe spurts in just 4.9 seconds from standing to 100 km/h, and the urge to accelerate is limited at 250 km/h by means of intervention in the engine control system.

The cooling system of the power unit is designed to enable it to do justice both to its outstanding performance potential and to the particularly high demands of constantly drawing on maximum power output. An additional separate radiator and a specific air duct deal with the increased thermal stress which can be generated by driving in a particularly sporty style on the race track.

The engine's outstanding efficiency is mainly due to direct injection which allows for high-precision fuel supply by means of piezo injectors placed centrally between the valves. In addition, Efficient Dynamics measures such as brake energy regeneration and needs-based control of auxiliary units ensure that the average fuel consumption on the EU test cycle is limited to 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions to 224 grams per kilometre.

The transmission of propulsion power in the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is taken care of by a 6-speed manual transmission. This newly developed transmission is operated using a very short M gearshift lever.

Chassis technology: low weight, high rigidity.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe has a chassis whose elements have run through BMW M GmbH's racing-oriented development process. Numerous key components were originally conceived for the BMW M3 and are now to be found in the compact high-performance coupe in modified form specifically adapted to the new model. In creating the vehicle set-up, a procedure which includes test runs on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the interaction of the engine, chassis and body was optimised here again so as to create a characteristic, consistent overall set of properties taking into account the low vehicle weight of 1,495 kilograms.

Both the double pivot front axle and the five-link rear axle of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe are made almost entirely of aluminium. Tubular stabilisers, axle links made of forged aluminium and aluminium shock absorbers round off the lightweight construction concept as applied to wheel suspension.

As standard: variable M differential lock, compound brakes, DSC with M Dynamic Mode, Servotronic.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe is fitted as standard with a variable M differential lock. This generates lock-up torque as required and completely variably up to 100%, thus providing for optimum traction on all road surfaces. The variable M differential lock responds to differences in rotational speeds in the right and left rear wheel, redirecting drive torque within a fraction of a second. So where there are significant differences in friction coefficients between the right and left rear wheel, for example, optimum traction and maximum propulsion power are ensured. The principle of the engine-speed-sensing M differential lock supports the dynamic qualities of rear-wheel drive both on slippery surfaces and when accelerating out of bends.

The M-specific compound high-performance brake system of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe provides impressive stability even under extreme stress, as well as being extremely light. The design principle of the brake system is derived from motor racing and guarantees excellent deceleration figures with significantly reduced heat sensitivity. Their inner-vented and perforated grey cast iron discs with a diameter of 360 millimetres at the front and 350 millimetres at the rear are linked to the aluminium disc chamber on a floating basis by means of cast-in premium steel pins.

In the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, power transmission to the rear wheels also provides the ideal basis for thrilling driving dynamics due to the consistent separation of drivetrain and steering functions. The rack-and-pinion steering is fitted with the hydraulic power steering system Servotronic which regulates its supportive effect in relation to road speed.

The driving stability control system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe includes such elements as the Antilock Brake System (ABS), an anti-slip control function (ASC), the brake assistant Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), a drive-off assistant, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), an anti-fading function and a dry brake function. In the wet or on slippery surfaces the driving stability system intervenes early on but discreetly so as to prevent oversteering. As an alternative to normal operating status, the driver can activate M Dynamic Mode (MDM) by means of a switch on the instrument panel, thereby raising the intervention threshold of the driving stability control system. This facilitates driving off on snow or loose sand by means of controlled slip. MDM also enables specifically applied, dynamic oversteering.

Exclusive and characteristically M: sports car ambience on the inside.

It is not least due to the exclusive interior design that the unmistakable M feeling can be sensed even before the engine is started. The characteristic M cockpit and a model-specific colour and materials concept create a style which perfectly recreates a sports car ambience. The standard sports seats in Boston leather offer both driver and front passenger excellent lateral hold even when taking bends in dynamic style. The design, created exclusively for the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, includes orange contrast stitching on the black surfaces of the seats and backrests as well as the M logo embossed in the front of the headrests.

It is characteristic of sports cars that dark colours dominate inside the vehicle, thereby enhancing the driver's concentration on the road. In the BMW 1 Series M Coupe this effect is created by the anthracite-coloured BMW Individual roof liner but also by the exclusive design of the interior trim strips, door panels and cockpit scoop in dark Alcantara. These design elements also feature the orange-coloured contrast stitching, as do the gearshift and handbrake lever gaiter. An M driver footrest and M entry sills round off the exclusively styled interior.

The model-specific design of the characteristic M cockpit in the BMW 1 Series M Coupe also contributes to optimum vehicle control. In the instrument panel, grey dial faces for the tachometer and a speed indicator going up to 300 km/h with red needles are combined with white display illumination.

The M leather steering wheel, which also comes as standard, has multifunction keys for operating the audio and telephone systems. In addition, the characteristic M button on the right steering wheel spoke enables the driver to switch spontaneously to a sports-style vehicle set-up. This configuration activates a particularly sporty characteristic curve in the engine control. Here, accelerator pedal commands are implemented with greater spontaneity.

Extensive range of standard equipment, high-quality options and innovative BMW ConnectedDrive features.

In addition to those features characteristic of M vehicles and other elements specific to this particular model which directly contribute to creating an exclusive driving experience in a high-performance sports car, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe also features an extensive range of standard equipment which underscores its premium character. The 2-door model shows its practical qualities with such features as four fully-fledged seats, a level of comfort which is geared towards covering lengthy distances and a luggage compartment with a capacity of 370 litres. Additional comfort needs can be fulfilled with a range of innovative options which are largely unique within the competitive field.

In addition to air conditioning and cruise control, the audio system BMW Radio Business with MP3-capable CD player and six speakers come as standard. Optional extras include two-zone automatic air conditioning, comfort access, a rain sensor, automatic anti-dazzle interior and exterior mirrors, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and the navigation system Professional with hard drive storage. In conjunction with the navigation system the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is fitted with the operating system iDrive which enables control of infotainment, navigation and communication functions using the Controller and an 8.8-inch Control Display.

The range of features available from the BMW ConnectedDrive development area includes the driver assistance systems Adaptive Headlight and High Beam Assistant as well as Park Distance Control with sensors at the rear. In addition to unlimited use of the internet, BMW ConnectedDrive also provides access to internet-based services to optimise navigation and entertainment functions. Innovative technologies to integrate mobile phones and music players are available for the BMW 1 M Series Coupe in combination with the navigation system Professional including mobile phone preparation. Thanks to the new interface technology, the latest generation of the Apple iPhone and the Apple iPod touch can be controlled via the iDrive menu. As the latest addition to the range of office functions also developed within the BMW ConnectedDrive program, owners of a BlackBerry smartphone by the mobile phone manufacturer RIM (Research In Motion) can now display e-mails on the vehicle monitor of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe via Bluetooth.

Further information on the BMW 1 Series M Coupe:

Market launch in Germany in May 2011.
World premiere at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
Price incl. VAT in Germany: €50,500.
(Price quoted is the recommended retail price ex works, not including transportation costs. Errors and amendments excepted.)
Insurance group (KH/VK/TK): 18/26/25
The BMW 1 Series M Coupe is produced at the Leipzig plant.

USA:

The All-New BMW 1 Series M

With anticipation of enthusiasts around the world at fever pitch, today BMW M GmbH unveiled the newest member of its intimate product family. For the first time, the coveted M badge has been granted to the popular BMW 1 Series in the form of the all-new BMW 1 Series M Coupe. The M badge was imparted after a two-year development process through which BMW M engineers and test drivers achieved the exceptional power delivery and the signature, near-perfect driving behavior of a BMW M car. The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe will be available in limited quantities and with a limited range of options at Authorized BMW Centers in Spring, 2011. Final pricing, packages, and options will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

"Eigenwillig," a German word meaning "self-willed," "individual," and "determined to go its own way," has been the proper word to describe the most unique and memorable M cars of the past three decades. With the original 1988 BMW M3 as its inspiration, the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe combines the raw capabilities of a race car with the agility, versatility, and seating position of a compact BMW Coupe to create a pure Ultimate Driving Machine®. In doing so, the 1 Series M Coupe continues the eigenwillig tradition of BMW M. With its latest two-door model, BMW M is illustrating its ability to build race car performance into a small car, capable of everyday use.

Dimensions and Construction.

The new BMW 1 Series M Coupe has been developed for near-perfect balance and a large, square footprint. It is 71 inches (1803mm) wide - 4.8 inches (122mm) wider than its 1988 M3 ancestor - yet only 1.3 inches (33mm) longer at 172.4 inches (4379mm) long. The new 1 Series M Coupe weighs in at 1,495kg DIN (3,296 lbs, preliminary), and features a 104.7-inch (2659mm) wheelbase, three inches longer than the 1988 M3. Front and rear track widths are exactly the same on the 1 Series M Coupe at 60.7 inches (1542mm) each. Compared to the 2011 BMW 135i Coupe, the 1 Series M Coupe is 0.2 inches (5mm) longer, 2.1 inches (53mm) wider, 0.5 inches (13mm) taller, and rides on the same 104.7 inch (2659mm) wheelbase. It features a track 2.8 inches (71mm) wider up front and 1.8 inches (46mm) wider in the rear, and weighs 35kg DIN (77 lbs, preliminary) less.

The new 1 Series M Coupe features a high-strength steel unibody, with unique, widened fenders and rear quarter panels to house the substantially widened track. It also features a metal roof panel which saves about 35 lbs (15kg) compared to BMW 1 Series models equipped with a moonroof. The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe, constructed as one of BMW's most performance-oriented vehicles in recent years, will not be offered with a moonroof. This weight savings - at the tallest point of the vehicle - provides a corresponding drop in the center of gravity, which contributes to improved driving dynamics. It also helps maximize head room (or helmet room, as the case may be).

Engineering a chassis which is "faster than its engine"

Providing sure-footed responsive handling for a high-performance, powerful and luxurious coupe, while keeping mass under control, presented numerous challenges for BMW M's engineers. The result is an aluminum suspension originally conceived for the current-generation M3, and tuned specifically for this model at BMW M's Nϋrburgring Nordschleife test center. Of course, every BMW design begins with arranging major components in a way that facilitates near-perfect front/rear weight balance (51.7/48.3).

Virtually all of the front-end components are aluminum, including the front struts, swivel bearings, central subframe and an additional thrust panel below the engine serving to maximize lateral stiffness of the entire front section.

At the rear axle, the subframe, transverse arms, track arms, and wheel hubs have been reconfigured by M for ideal kinematics, geometry and stiffness. Virtually every detail on the five-arm rear axle is made of aluminum and is new for this generation of BMW M vehicles, including the aluminum dampers.

Both the front and rear axles feature hollow anti-roll bars optimized for their function and weight. Incorporating two additional longitudinal reinforcement bars, axle kinematics are perfectly tailored to the overall street and track character of the car. The result, in terms of both stability and weight, conforms to the balanced performance concept of every BMW M vehicle.

Compound Brakes and Wheels

A suitably powerful braking system for a car with this much performance was originally developed for the current-generation BMW M3. The internally-vented, cross-drilled cast iron discs measure 14.2 inches (360mm) in diameter at the front and 13.8 inches (350mm) in the rear. Featuring large compound disc brakes and electronic anti-lock, stopping power for the 1 Series M Coupe is strong, precise and consistent. Each disc is connected to a floating aluminum hub by cast-in stainless-steel pins. This configuration reduces the thermal loads on the discs, thus increasing their performance and service life. An electrically-driven pump provides the system's vacuum power.

Service - and safety - are enhanced thanks to an integrated wear indicator which, through a dash display, allows the driver to monitor the condition of the brake linings. Brake service - covered for four years or 50,000 miles under BMW Ultimate Service - can thus be administered when necessary without guesswork.

The 1 Series M Coupe is equipped with the M-specific, light-alloy cross-spoke wheels from the M3 Competition Package and limited-production M3 GTS. They measure 19 x 9 inches with 245/35/R19 low-profile tires at the front and 19 x 10 inches with 265/35/R19 tires at the rear, and are silver in color.

In the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, power transmission to the rear wheels also provides the ideal basis for thrilling driving dynamics due to the consistent separation of drivetrain and steering functions. The rack-and-pinion steering is fitted with the hydraulic power steering system called Servotronic, which regulates boost in relation to road speed.

Engine.

The heart of every BMW is the engine, and so an inline-6 with outstanding performance, free-revving behavior, and endless thrust propels the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. The concept is familiar: in the model history of BMW M, the high-revving inline-6 is one of the classic engine formats. In the second and third generations of BMW M3, the inline-6 became famous for combining high output, razor-sharp response, and sonorous sounds. In the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, the inline-6 engine concept is realized in its most up-to-date form.

The twin-turbocharged, all-aluminum, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine is characterized by instantaneous response to the accelerator pedal, fantastic sounds, and a free-revving spirit. The combination of twin low-mass turbochargers and BMW's High Precision direct injection offers an output a naturally-aspirated engine would only be able to provide through more cylinders and larger displacement.

The turbocharger system developed for the engine of the new 1 Series M Coupe maintains a high output throughout the entire engine speed range. Maximum output of 335 hp (250 kW) is delivered at 5,900 rpm. Nominal peak torque is 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) from 1,500 rpm to 4,500 rpm. Redline is 7,000 rpm. The enhanced engine management system of the 1 Series M Coupe includes an electronically-controlled overboost function to briefly increase torque under full load by another 37 lb-ft (50 Nm). This temporary torque peak of 369 lb-ft gives the car a substantial increase in acceleration. The 1 Series M Coupe will complete the sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds (0-100 kmh in 4.9 seconds). The standing quarter-mile mark comes up in 13.2 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 155 mph (250 kmh).

Signature sound to accompany the surge of power.

The exhaust system of the 1 Series M Coupe has been tuned by M specifically for this new model. Acoustic engineering gives the car a unique personality in all phases of operation. The M exhaust system is easily recognized by the presence of its four signature exhaust pipes.

M Drive Button.

The new 1 Series M Coupe also features the steering wheel-mounted M Drive button that made its first appearance in the 2006 M5. In the 1 Series M Coupe, the M Button activates a razor-sharp throttle response program for the sportiest driving. This means that the performance characteristics of the engine can be varied according to the driver's wishes.

6-speed Manual Transmission.

A close ratio 6-speed manual transmission is used for power transmission to the rear wheels in the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. It was specially designed to interact with high-torque engines and has been fitted for this purpose with a dry sump cooling system. An upgraded flywheel for high-torque applications is installed between the engine and transmission. The transmission is operated using a very short M gearshift lever. Final drive ratio is 3.15: 1.

Variable M differential lock, DSC with M Dynamic Mode.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe is fitted with a variable M differential lock. This generates lock-up torque on-demand and variably, thus providing for optimum rear-wheel drive traction on all road surfaces. The variable M differential lock responds to differences in rotational speeds in the right and left rear wheel, redirecting drive torque in a fraction of a second. So where there are significant differences in friction coefficients between the right and left rear wheel, for example, optimum traction and maximum possible propulsion are ensured. The centrifuge principle of the variable M differential lock supports the dynamic qualities of rear-wheel drive both on slippery surfaces and when accelerating out of bends.

This gives the BMW 1 Series M Coupe traction benefits on slippery surfaces, snow and sand. It also supports sporty-style motoring on narrow, winding roads such as mountain passes since optimum traction and maximum drive torque are available when accelerating out of a bend. So in this model, too, the variable M differential lock proves ideal support for the driving dynamics properties of rear-wheel drive.

The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe includes such elements as the Antilock Brake System (ABS), an anti-slip control function (ASC), the brake assistant Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), a hill-hold assistant for starting off, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), a brake fade compensation function and a brake drying function. In the wet or on slippery surfaces the DSC intervenes discreetly to limit oversteer.

As an alternative to normal operating status, the driver can activate M Dynamic Mode (MDM) by means of pushing the MDM Button between the front air vents, raising the intervention thresholds of the DSC system. MDM enables slight amounts of dynamic oversteer under specific circumstances to enable optimum vehicle yaw for maximum performance. Demonstrations at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, S.C. have proven MDM mode to enable the fastest-possible lapping performance while still providing the assurance and protection of Dynamic Stability Control. MDM also facilitates starting off in snow or loose surfaces by means of carefully controlled amounts of wheelspin. DSC may be fully disabled via a long-press of the MDM button (ABS remains active).

Innovative Aerodynamics: Air Curtains.

Consistency between form and function is crucial to engineers at BMW M, who seek perfect balance of various aerodynamic factors in the wind tunnel. As a result, the 1 Series M Coupe has been equipped with BMW's latest aerodynamic innovation. Air curtains, used here for the first time in a BMW production vehicle, improve air flow around the wheel arches with the benefit of significantly reduced turbulence.

This innovative aerodynamic feature consists of openings in the outer section of the lower front fascia that route high-pressure air through ducts at each front corner. The ducts are approximately 10 x 3 centimeters wide and are designed to channel air to openings at the front of each wheel arch, where it is discharged through a very narrow opening at high speed. The escaping air stream covers the side of the front wheels like a curtain, thereby reducing aerodynamically unfavorable turbulence around the rotating wheels.

This feature has a key role to play in the development of future aerodynamic innovations. An example of the air curtain principle was first presented in the concept study BMW Vision EfficientDynamics at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in 2009, and the developers of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe took on the pioneering task of applying this element to a production vehicle. To do so, they utilized the unique capabilities of the new full-scale "rolling road" Aerolab wind tunnel at the BMW Group's new Aerodynamic Testing Center.

Design.

There are three exterior paint finishes to choose from for the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. In addition to Alpine White non-metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic, Valencia Orange Metallic is available exclusively for this compact high-performance sports car.

The powerfully shaped front fascia is dominated by three large air intakes which secure cooling air for the high-performance engine. The wide central air intake is covered by a honeycomb-structured grille, while the two outer intakes are completely open. This means that in every situation on the road or track, a sufficiently large quantity of cooling air is fed directly to the engine oil cooler on the right and to the supplemental coolant radiator on the left.

With the greenhouse conveying an impression of lightness, the powerfully distinctive shoulder line and the elaborately sculpted surfaces symbolize precisely controllable athleticism in profile. The wheel arches of the 2-door model bulge out especially voluminously at both the front and rear. One hallmark M feature is the chrome gill element on the front wheel arch which is particularly elongated. It bears the side turn indicator and the M brand logo, as well as forming the starting point of the character line running along the door handles to the rear. A vertical contour edge starts at the gill element which leads down to the side sill. Fine-tuning in the wind tunnel has also shaped the design of the exterior mirrors. In their basic shape they are the same as those of the BMW M3.

The powerful wheel arches also make the rear of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe seem especially broad. Horizontally arranged lines accentuate this impression. A discreet spoiler lip on the luggage compartment lid generates additional downforce on the rear axle at high speeds. The rear fascia has side openings which echo the look of the Air Curtain intakes in the front fascia. The characteristic M visual symmetry is created by two sets of chrome twin tailpipes, each positioned towards the outer edges. L-shaped rear light clusters with red glass covers create a characteristic night-time illumination. Inside these, the rear light is provided by two light banks fed by LED units.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe features standard Xenon Adaptive headlamps. The twin circular headlights are truncated in the upper section by an LED-fed "eyebrow." This is what creates the focused look of the 1 Series M Coupe.

Focused Interior.

The M-specific cockpit developed exclusively for the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is designed to facilitate focused, sporty driving. High-quality, dark Alcantara with orange contrast stitching covers the door panels, door pulls, instrument cluster binnacle, dash panel, and gearshift and handbrake lever boots. The driver's attention is focuses on an M-specific instrument cluster with gray dials, classic M red pointers, and white backlighting. An M driver footrest and M entry sills round off the unique interior.

The black sport seats in standard Boston leather have orange contrasting stitching and an M logo embossed in the front of each headrest. Seat heating is available for both front seats. The orange contrast stitching is also echoed on the rear seats and on all design elements featuring Alcantara. The leather M multifunction steering wheel features the now-ubiquitous M Button for spontaneous activation of the sharpest throttle response and M Dynamic Mode of DSC.

The dominance of dark surfaces, including the A pillar trim and anthracite headliner reduces sun glare and promotes focus on the road. In combination with high-quality materials, carefully planned contours, and selective color accents, the interior of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe provides a perfect environment in which to pursue driving pleasure.

Safety Equipment

BMW passionately pursues a safety philosophy with three key modes: a) superior accident avoidance, b) superior crash survivability, and c) comprehensive post-crash notification. The 1 Series M Coupe features an extensive range of standard equipment which underscores BMW's safety research culture. Standard safety features include front, pelvis-thorax and side curtain head airbags, three-point automatic seatbelts for all seats with belt force limiters and belt pretensioners at the front. Models equipped with BMW Assist feature BMW's Enhanced Automatic Collision Notification, which alerts authorities when an airbag deployment has occurred. Furthermore, data from on-board safety systems is processed and analyzed through the proprietary URGENCY algorithm so that the vehicle may provide the BMW Assist call center with special notice when occupants are likely to have sustained severe injury.

BMW Group In America

BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 and X3 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 336 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 143 BMW motorcycle retailers, 100 MINI passenger car dealers, and 31 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

UK:

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe

Every new BMW M car forms part of a very special family tree that can trace a lineage of iconic performance road cars back to the legendary BMW M1 from the 1970s. The latest car to feature the letter M comes with stunning performance from a race-bred powertrain, a controllable, agile and exploitable chassis, the finest materials and components, and an attractive, sporty design to ensure it takes a deserved place among these icons.

The new BMW 1 Series M Coupé heralds the introduction of a high performance sports car into a compact design that extends the BMW M portfolio and paves the way for a wider audience to appreciate M car ownership.

An M car has to have sublime driving characteristics first and foremost, but it must look stunning too, and the BMW 1 Series M Coupé does not deviate from this formula. The new entry point to M car ownership, the BMW 1 Series M Coupé's dynamic looks also have a role to play.

The sporty character of the BMW 1 Series M Coupé is expressed by a dramatic exterior design, with widened wheel arches, exclusive 19-inch Y-spoke M alloy wheels, and dual chrome tailpipes. A discreet spoiler lip generating additional downforce and a rear apron with side openings echoing the look of the front air intakes ensure the look of sporting intent matches the model's sporting ability. L-shaped rear light clusters with two light banks fed by LED units complete the M car look. Exterior paint finishes are Alpine White non-metallic, Black Sapphire metallic and the exclusive Valencia Orange metalic.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupé is fitted as standard with twin corona bi-xenon headlamps, and LED-fed positioning lights. A hallmark M-branded feature is the elongated chrome gill element on the front wheel arch, while the door mirrors are from the BMW M3, but tuned for the specific aerodynamic characteristics.

The standard sports seats in Boston leather feature Kyalami orange stitching and offer both driver and front passenger excellent lateral hold. The interior is exclusively modelled for the BMW 1 Series M Coupé, with an M leather steering wheel and the use of Alcantara with Kyalami orange contrast stitching on the door trim, door inserts, handbrake and gear lever gaiter and instrument binnacle cove. The M logo is also embossed in the front of the headrests.

Drivertrain

The new BMW 1 Series M Coupé has at its heart a high revving, in-line six-cylinder engine with twin turbocharger, direct injection technology and double VANOS variable valve timing to develop a maximum output of 340hp. Such performance equates to a highly desirable car that takes just 4.9 seconds to accelerate from zero to 62mph. The BMW M tuned twin-turbocharger technology used consists of two relatively small turbos which, because of their low inertia characteristics, are active even at low engine speeds, ensuring no turbo lag, yet a peak power output which is achieved at 5,900rpm.

Model Power Hp Torque Nm Zero - 62mph Seconds

0 - 62 Top Speed Mph Combined Mpg CO2 Emissions g/km

BMW 1 Series M Coupé 340 500* 4.9 155** 29.4 224

Note: *With overboost. **Electronically-limited.

The great flexibility of the 2,979cc engine means that maximum torque of 450Nm is produced from as little as 1,500rpm. A flat torque curve for swift in gear acceleration sees peak torque maintained up to 4,500 rpm. This figure can be increased by another 50Nm when the car is under full throttle by means of an overboost function. With this performance the BMW 1 Series M Coupé will blast to 62mph from standstill to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. In fact, such is its stunning performance and handling, it is expected to be significantly faster around the Nürburgring Nordschleife than the previous generation E46 BMW M3.

The engine control system of the car allows two differing performance curves: in standard mode the BMW 1 Series M Coupé offers a more torque-orientated, flexible character to the engine's performance delivery, while in M Dynamic Mode (MDM), activated by a button on the steering wheel, engine speeds rocket instantly, accessing the highest power levels as quickly as possible.

The cooling system of the BMW 1 Series M Coupé has been designed for constant high load, high speed track driving, through the use of an additional separate radiator and a specific air duct to deal with the increased thermal stress which can occur when driving in a particularly sporty style on the race track.

The efforts made in optimising performance and efficiency are also reflected in a newly developed dual-mass flywheel. Its lightweight construction benefits the engine's efficiency and it also has an increased solidity which is able to cope with the six-cylinder engine's high level of torque.

In addition, EfficientDynamics measures such as brake energy regeneration and needs-based control of auxiliary units ensure that recorded combined fuel consumption is 29.4mpg and CO2 emissions are 224g/km.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupé is only offered with a six-speed manual transmission, specially designed to work with high-torque engines. This newly developed transmission is operated using a very short-shift M gearshift lever.

Chassis

The chassis of the BMW 1 Series M Coupé has been tested using BMW M GmbH's racing-oriented development process, and uses numerous key components, originally conceived for the BMW M3, have been modified for use in this car.

Light weight is of course vital and the latest M car tips the scales at 1,495kgs courtesy of the extensive use of aluminium. The double pivot front axle and the five-link rear axle are made almost entirely of aluminium. Tubular stabilisers, axle links made of forged aluminium and aluminium shock absorbers round off the lightweight construction concept. With chassis technology derived directly from motor racing, a power-to-weight ratio of 227hp/tonne has been achieved. The footprint of the car is bigger than a standard BMW 1 Series Coupé with it being 55mm wider than the BMW 135i Coupé. The width of 1,803 mm is the result of optimisation of the front and rear axle to enhance driving dynamics.

As standard, BMW 1 Series M Coupé comes with Variable M differential lock, compound brakes, DSC with MDM and M Servotronic. The Variable M differential lock responds to differences in rotational speeds in the rear wheels, redirecting torque within a fraction of a second for optimum traction and maximum thrust on slippery surfaces and when accelerating out of bends.

The M-specific compound high-performance brake system of the BMW 1 Series M

Coupé uses inner-vented and perforated discs with a diameter of 360mm at the front and 350mm at the rear, providing impressive stability even under extreme stress, as well as being extremely light.

Rack-and-pinion steering is fitted with Servotronic hydraulic power steering while the

Dynamic Stability Control system that includes elements such as an anti-slip control function (ASC), the brake assistant Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), a drive-off assistant, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), an anti-fading function and a dry brake function is also standard. The driver can activate M Dynamic Mode (MDM) on the instrument panel, raising the point at which the driving stability control system intervenes.

Specification

The BMW 1 Series M Coupé comes with an extensive range of standard equipment, including 19-inch Y-Spoke alloy wheels, two-zone air-conditioning, cruise control, BMW Radio Business with MP3-capable CD player and six speakers. It also has a Boston leather interior with Alcantara trim with Kyalami orange stitching in the cabin.

Optional extras include Comfort Access, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Professional Navigation system with hard drive storage, Adaptive Headlights and High beam Assistant.

The BMW 1 Series M Coupé goes on sale in May 2011 priced at £39,990 OTR, with the first customer deliveries expected in May.

Latest Car News

All images courtesy of and copyright their respective manufacturers, unless otherwise indicated. They may not be reproduced or retransmitted in any way without the express written permission of their respective owners. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Model news and specifications are presented as provided by manufacturer, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DIGIADS. No warranty is made by DIGIADS with respect to the accuracy or timeliness of the information contained herein.