BMW has unveiled the new 128ti performance oriented hatchback

BMW has unveiled the new 128ti. The new car caters to those looking for an unfiltered driving machine and sits below the range-topping all-wheel drive BMW M135i xDrive.

The BMW 128ti sports a specially tuned M Sport suspension and Torsen limited-slip differential, giving the exclusively front-wheel drive compact sports model an unwavering focus on providing highly engaging driving pleasure. BMW is targeting a young market group whose sights are set on BMW's signature driving pleasure with this new hatchback.

On the outside, the car sports a distinctive front apron with specially sculpted air intakes and the rear apron from the M Sport package finished in high gloss black.

The standalone character of the BMW 128ti is also underscored by the striking red coloured accents on the air vents at the front and rear.

The interior of the BMW 128ti features high-class materials and extends the use of red accents from the exterior into the cabin, creating a bold contrast against the sporty black headliner. A large Race Red surface adorns the backrests of the standard Sensatec/cloth sport seats, while the steering wheel rim and airbag cover of the standard M Sport steering wheel also feature red stitching. The sport seats can also be optioned in perforated Dakota leather. 

Access to the infotainment features of the BMW Operating System 7.0 is via a large display grouping, whose two displays are 10.25 inches in size. Gesture control is also available, and a 9.2-inch BMW Head-Up Display can be also specified. 

The load compartment has a capacity of 380 litres, rising to 1,200 litres with the rear seat bench folded. Electric tailgate operation is also among the items on the options list.

The new BMW 128ti is available exclusively with M Sport suspension specially tuned to its distinctive character, with a 10mm decrease in ride height for a lower centre of gravity and a sportier appearance. It also adopts the sitffer anti-roll bars, anti-roll bar mounts, springs and shock absorbers from the BMW M135i xDrive.

The result is even sharper driving dynamics, helped by the reduced body movement that comes with the bespoke M Sport suspension. This is further facilitated by a weight saving of around 80 kg over the all-wheel drive BMW M135i xDrive.

The front axle of the BMW 128ti is equipped as standard with the same Torsen limited-slip differential employed on the BMW M135i xDrive. It is a perfect solution for the engine output and front-wheel drive concept of the BMW 128ti. Beyond increasing traction, agility and stability, the limited-slip differential also gives the car superior cornering prowess.

If the inside wheel loses grip while powering through a bend and the driver accelerates at the same time, the limited-slip differential directs more torque to the wheel with greater grip, thereby preventing wheel slip and enhancing traction and agility.

During a dynamic lane change for instance, the differential improves stability and cornering behaviour if a wheel rotates more slowly by distributing the torque to the wheels individually. This translates into composed, dynamic handling combined with enhanced driving pleasure.

Stopping power in the BMW 128ti is provided by the standard M Sport brakes, with red calipers bearing the M logo. Four-piston monoblock fixed calipers and 360mm discs are employed at the front wheels, while floating calipers with 300mm discs provide stopping power at the rear axle. The M Sport brakes stand out with their increased fade resistance and exceptional feel.

The 18-inch Y-spoke alloy wheels can be specified with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 in 225/40 R18 format as a no-cost option. The 18-inch M Performance forged wheel is finished in matt Jet Black while 19-inch double-spoke lightalloys with 235/35 R19 tyres are also available.

The engine in the BMW 128ti is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 261bhp. Peak torque of 400Nm is available from 1,750rpm to 4,500rpm. This allows the BMW 128ti to sprint from zero to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds up to an electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h.

The BMW 128ti has an official stated fuel economy of 16.4km/L. This low figure is made possible thanks to the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, with steering wheel mounted shift paddles allowing the driver to change gears manually should they desire.