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BMW F21 M135i Facelift Goes Out for Tests Barely Camouflaged

Launched back in 2011, the second 1 Series model in BMW’s history is bound to get a mild facelift in 2015. The updated version is already testing and our spy photographers caught up with it, once again.
BMW F21 M135i Facelift 7 photos
Photo: CarPix
BMW F21 M135i FaceliftBMW F21 M135i FaceliftBMW F21 M135i FaceliftBMW F21 M135i FaceliftBMW F21 M135i FaceliftBMW F21 M135i Facelift
Don’t expect big changes on the new model though. The sales of the 1 Series have been satisfactory and the car is already fitted with every bit of new tech from BMW you could need.

On the outside, only the front and rear bumpers are expected to sport a different look in the future but the googly eyes seem to stay for now. Small details will set the new model apart though, it’s just that you’ll have to squint to see them.

The biggest changes are expected to be on the technical side of things. The new iDrive system with touch-sensitive controllers will be introduced as well as new Driver Assistance features, more eco-friendly engines and, possibly, even 3-cylinder 1.5-liter units.

That would only change the entry-level models though. Judging by the twin tailpipes at the back and the grey mirror covers, the car we’re looking at here is an M135i, using the N55HP engine. In this regard, don’t expect any change.

The same 3-liter inline 6-cylinder plant will keep on being used on this M Performance Automobile with the same 320 HP and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque going towards the rear wheel or all four corners of the car, if fitted with xDrive.

A possible unveiling of the production version of the LCI model could take place at Geneva, at the latest, despite having the Detroit Auto Show in the meantime. Since BMW is not currently selling the 1 Series in the US, an unveiling at the American show doesn’t seem feasible.
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