Hot BMW 1-Series concept – the M1?

Click here for more pictures of the BMW 1 Series concept tii

BMW has unveiled a 1-Series Coupe concept at the Tokyo Motor Show with ‘an uncompromising focus on motorsport,’ and could become a hot M-badged version of the entry-level Beemer.

The BMW Concept 1-Series tii is inspired by the legendary 2002 tii coupe of the Sixties and Seventies and is claimed to be light, agile and powerful with unparalleled ultra-sporting handling.

On the outside the tii features an aggressive sculpted bodykit, 18-inch alloys, a twin exhaust and sporty white and blue stripes which run over the top of the car.

To improve handling and aerodynamics, the 1-Series tii has a front air dam, side sills and special ‘gurney’ flaps at the rear which generate increased downforce, giving the BMW a more planted feel.

The coupe’s design is defined by ‘three-box architecture’ where there is a clear distinction between the engine compartment, passenger cell and boot.

Inside, the BMW 1-Series Concept is adorned with Alcantara, bucket seats, a three spoke steering wheel and a white rev counter.

BMW hasn’t revealed engines or performance figures for the concept. But we’d expect to see a tuned version of the 3-litre engine BMW uses in its 1-Series meaning a 0-60mph dash of around five seconds and a top speed limited to 155mph.  

While this is the clearest indication of a full-on M-powered 1-Series it is unlikely to take the name M1 as that was bestowed on upon the Lamborghini-designed supercar from the 1970s.

BMW hasn’t confirmed whether the concept will see production, but if it does expect to pay around £35,000 for the sexy coupe.

Click here for more pictures of the BMW 1 Series concept tii

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