BMW->ke178 is currently working on a number of facelifts and redesigns for its current lineup, and the second-generation 1 Series is one of them. The updated compact is scheduled to arrive in dealerships for the 2015 model and, as the latest batch of spy shots we received in our inbox reveals, work is well underway.
Along with the regular model, which has yet to show its face on public roads, the facelifted 1 Series range will also include a slightly upgraded M135i. The refresh won't bring many changes to the hatchback->ke304, which is scheduled to remain on sale for another three model years until the third-generation 1 Series arrives, but will help keep it fresh in the eyes of potential customers.
Only the front and the rear fascias of the M135i appear to have undergone surgery, and this pretty much explains why the vehicle spotted by our paparazzi is wearing very little camouflage. More changes will occur under the compact's skin, where BMW will add a number of improved gadgets and more environmentally friendly engines.
Click past the jump to read more about the facelift BMW 1 Series.
Spy Shots
Aside from the headlamps and the trademark kidney grille, the M135i's front end is starting to look more like its coupe->ke141 counterpart, the M235i. The updated front bumper shares an identical configuration, with two large side intakes flanking the trapezoidal mouth in the lower apron. Setting the M135i apart from the M235i, though, are the round fog lights mounted at the outer edges of the bumper.
Another detail, this time invisible to the untrained eye, lies in the twin-kidney grille. Although its shape remains pretty much unchanged, BMW opted to use a nine-bar design instead of the previous eight-bar configuration. At the back, the bumper sports mild modifications, while the taillights appear to be same as on the 2014 model. However, we expect for BMW to fit the entire 1 Series lineup with new lamps, as the compact moves closer to launch.
Further updates were operated under the car's skin and include a new iDrive system and updated Driver Assistance features. Mild modifications are likely to occur in the cabin as well, with a few nips and tucks carried out on the center console area and in the trim and color options department.
The engine will remain unchanged, meaning customers will get the same 3.0-liter, six-cylinder plant generating 320 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. There's still no word whether or not the 1 Series will arrive Stateside, but don't get your hopes up until 2018.
Why It Matters
At first glance, the facelift won't bring major changes to the M135i, but these updates are enough to keep the compact fresh for three more years. The new bumper is a nice addition to the hatchback's front fascia, as it enhances its sporty appearance and moves it closer to the more attractive M235i. The new iDrive system will help improve the vehicle's performance and maybe shave a couple of tenths of a second off its 0-to-60 mph sprint.