BMW has given its compact hatchback a welcoming facelift. This is also no slight facelift, but a rather comprehensive one that puts the car in line with its sibling, the 2 Series.
The update at the front now incorporates LED daytime running lights. Buyers will also be able to choose the optional LED headlights at the front and the rear.
The cabin also features the latest technology from BMW. For instance, two infotainment system options are available. The 6,5-inch central display with the standard iDrive control knob, or a larger 8,8-inch screen with a bigger iDrive control system.
It is highly likely that both three- and five-door derivatives will become available in South Africa. If they do, here are the engines we can expect to see:
- 116i, 1,5-litre, three-cylinder (81 kW/180 N.m)
- 118i, 1,6-litre, four-cylinder (101 kW/220 N.m)
- 120i, 1,6-litre, four-cylinder (132 kW/250 N.m)
- 125i, 2,0-litre, four-cylinder (163 kW/310 N.m)
- 116d, 1,5-litre, three-cylinder (86 kW/270 N.m)
- 118d, 2,0-litre, four-cylinder (112 kW/320 N.m)
- 120d, 2,0-litre, four-cylinder (142 kW/400 N.m)
- 125d, 2,0-litre, four-cylinder (167 kW/450 N.m)
- M135i, 3,0-litre, six-cylinder (240 kW/450 N.m)
According to BMW, the M135i will hit 100 km/h in 5,1 seconds with the manual gearbox and 4,9 with the 8-speed automatic transmission.
Expect the new range to arrive in South Africa within the next three months.
