Next BMW M135i Shows Up on the Scoop Radar With Shrunken Grille and Quad Exhaust Pipes

One of the most significant changes revolves around the kidney grille, which was significantly shrunken. As a result, the entire nose looks pointier. We can also see the trapezoidal air intake in the new front bumper and a pair of smaller side vents.

The roof spoiler seems to have been tweaked, and the rear bumper and diffuser are likely new. More importantly, this prototype had quad exhaust tips that are normally reserved for full-blown M models. Does this mean that it boasts more power? Is the 1M moniker returning from the dead? And is it really a brand-new car or just the mid-cycle refresh of the current one?

These are all questions that will be answered in due course. For what it's worth, it looks like it builds on the current-gen 1er, as the profile lines seem to be identical. It still features traditional door handles and not flush-mounted ones, and the fuel filler cap sits in the same place. Even the overall footprint of the premium subcompact hatchback signed by the Munich auto brand looks unchanged.

Mind you, it has been reported that the model code will change to the F70 from the current F40 next summer. That suggests an entirely new generation, but it does not fall in line with what we see in these scoops. On the other hand, the mid-cycle refresh changes could be so significant that BMW could try and market it as a new vehicle and not a facelift.

Together with its hot hatch sibling, the next 1er will likely retain the UKL2 platform. It is a front-biased construction that also underpins the 2 Series Gran Coupe, 2 Series Active Tourer, X1, X2, and a few MINIs. Customers will have a generous powertrain choice, starting with the 1.5-liter three-pot reportedly powering the 116i base model, going through the 2.0-liter diesel and gasoline options, a potential plug-in hybrid, and ending with the M135 – unless BMW finally decides to launch a rival to the likes of the Audi RS 3 Sportback and Mercedes-AMG A 45 S.

In its current form, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine powering the M135i develops 302 hp (306 ps/225 kW) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. It's mated to an eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive, enabling 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) in 48 seconds and a 155 mph (250 kph) electronically limited top speed. The M135i takes on the Audi S3 Sportback and Mercedes-AMG A 35. The next 1er and its hot hatch range-topping flavor will remain forbidden fruits in the US.