BMW reveals hot 1 Series
22 July 2005 The 130i will become the most powerful 1 Series when it goes on sale in September, with its output of 265bhp. This makes the 130i considerably more powerful than any other hot hatch in its class, with nearly 30bhp more than the new 237bhp Vauxhall Astra VXR. However, the BMW will face stiffer competition later this year with the introduction of the 247bhp Audi A3 3.2 V6 Quattro and similarly powered VW Golf R32. Alfa Romeo's 147 GTA musters 250bhp. Perhaps more important to keen drivers is the fact that this scorching performance is married to BMW's customary front-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout - making it unique among the current crop of front-wheel-drive hot hatches. The 130i will be offered in SE version for £24,745, or in M Sport guise for £26,515. The latter includes 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels, a lower front spoiler, part-leather upholstery and sportier suspension. Also joining BMW's line-up in September are the new 520d saloon and Touring. Using the 163bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine from the 320d, the 520d will become the cheapest model in the 5 Series range, with prices starting from £25,925. The 520d M Sport Touring will be the most expensive version, at £31,345. It will initially be offered with a six-speed manual gearbox, with an optional six-speed auto 'box on the way in early 2006. BMW 130i SE Price: £24,745 Target Price saving: 5% Rivals: Audi A3 3.2 V6, VW Golf R32 Engine 265bhp 3.0-litre straight six 0-62mph 6.1 seconds Top speed 155mph (limited) Monthly company car tax bill for lower-/higher-rate earner £139/£254 Combined economy 30.7mpg BMW 520d Price: £25,925 Target Price saving: 6.5% Rivals: Audi A6 2.0 TDI SE, Mercedes-Benz E220 CDI Classic Engine 163bhp 2.0-litre diesel 0-62mph 8.6sec Top speed 139mph Monthly company car tax bill for lower-/higher-rate earner £99/£180 Combined economy 47.9mpg |
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