The BMW M135i xDrive puts the hot into hot hatch and the automaker is putting the finishing touches on the facelifted variant.
Dressed in heavy camouflage, the updated model looks a bit sleeker as it adopts slimmer headlights with a rounder design. They’re joined by a new front bumper, which has a revised lower air intake with horizontal bars. The model also appears to adopt a revised grille, although it’s hard to be certain at this point.
The modest updates continue out back as the car has been equipped with a new four-tailpipe exhaust system that replaces the previous dual exhaust setup. That isn’t the only change as we can see a new rear bumper as well as updated taillights.
Also Read: BMW M135i xDrive Facelift Spied With Quad Exhaust Pipes
Spy photographers didn’t snap interior photos this time around, but previous pictures have shown the cabin will get a significant update that incorporates a number of cues from the 2-Series Active Tourer. In particular, we can expect a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a new 10.7-inch infotainment system. They’ll be joined by revised switchgear including a minimalist shifter.
While the four-tailpipe exhaust system seemingly hints at a high-performance variant, the model is expected to use a familiar turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It could be updated for improved performance, but the engine currently develops 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque, which allows for a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.8 seconds.
Those numbers are certainly respectable, but they’re no match for the Mercedes-AMG A45 S which features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder pumping out 415 hp (310 kW / 421 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the extra oomph, the A45 S hits 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds and doesn’t stop going until maxing out at 167 mph (270 km/h).
Picture credits: CarPix for CarScoops
