BMW makes tii concept bits offering
Concept tii-inspired performance upgrades start with 1The release of the 1 Series Coupe next month will herald the introduction of a range of optional, performance-focussed upgrades that are also being considered for the company's top-selling 3 Series.
The options will be applied firstly to the 1 Series Coupe and five-door models' aerodynamics, suspension, drivetrain and interior, and carry full warranty.
BMW Australia says "there's talk" the 3 Series will be next in line for the performance upgrades.
The 1 Series models can be fitted with an aerodynamics kit (from $1640) including front airdam, carbon-fibre mirror caps ($633 a pair) and rear spoiler ($755), and a handling package with carbon-fibre spring strut brace ($2055), upgraded brakes (for 135i - $3082), and BMW Performance 18-inch double-spoke alloy wheels (and tyres, for $4920). Add extra for fitting, etc.
According to BMW the Coupe's straight six benefits from a performance air intake system ($1300). We'll wait for official figures and a sample of so-equipped test models before making a verdict but the company claims the system, which incorporates a modified filter cartridge to optimise air flow, enables more power and better efficiency.
The 1's interior can be also fitted with sports seats for front passengers with bucket contours and alcantara trim. Side airbags are integrated in the seats.
BMW is wise to refer to the carbon trim for dashboard and front and rear door panels as "decorative", rather than "weight-saving" while the aluminium pedals included in the interior upgrade package are designed to "convey the functions and qualities of a racing car".
1 Series buyers and owners can also order a BMW Performance gearshift lever boasting optimised ergonomic design and 25 per cent shorter shift travel, according to the maker, for $350.
Other component upgrades will be offered for the 1 Series over the months following the release of the 125i Coupe and 135i Coupe Sport models in May -- delayed at this stage by the ADR approval process for release. In the queue: a multifunction steering wheel with LED display for information such as lateral acceleration and engine temp incorporated in the rim.
BMW Group has successfully offered a similar range of performance-focussed accessories for MINI under the John Cooper Works banner. Now the same concept is being applied to the 'main' brand.
"Basically we've taken a lot of the stuff shown in the tii car at Tokyo last year (more here), and are making it available as accessories," says spokesperson for BMW Australia Toni Andreevski.
"We're launching it [the performance components range] with the 1 Series Coupe and there's some talk that it might come on 3 Series down the track.
"It's a big move in terms of the performance accessories side of the business... you had to go to Alpina or someone else to buy this stuff in the past," says Andreevski.
While released as options first with the 1 Series Coupes, the upgrades can also be ordered for the hatch models.
As for being offered elsewhere in the range, Andreevski says: "The next product we're looking at is the 3 Series but beyond that there's been no further confirmation."
The BMW Performance range, along with the 125i and 135i Sport Coupe models will be made available for sale from May. Details on the availability of further BMW Performance components will be announced shortly after.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
