2022 BMW M135i xDrive confirmed for Australia

BMW has given its all-wheel drive hot hatch an update for 2022.

The 2022 BMW M135i xDrive might look identical to the 2021 model on the outside, but it’s been treated to some choice tweaks under the skin.

The updated model will be in Australia during the first quarter of 2022.

BMW has upped the camber on the front wheels of the M135i xDrive to help it put its power down with some steering lock wound on.

There’s also a new mount for the front suspension wishbones, and the mounts for the rear trailing and control arms have been redesigned. BMW says the result is better ‘roll behaviour’ in the corners, and improved steering feel.

Nothing has changed under the bonnet. Power in the M135i xDrive still comes from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 225kW and 450Nm, sent to all four wheels through a variable all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

BMW says a new exhaust system cuts down on back pressure, and should accentuate the car’s bassy growl when you really lay the boot in.

The all-wheel drive system is backed by a mechanical limited-slip front differential to drag the M135i out of corners, along with a traction control system built directly into the ECU for faster responses.

If you’re really keen to stand out, BMW will now allow owners to spec their M135i with an Individual paint finish. Sao Paulo Yellow (pictured) has been added to the palette, along with Frozen Orange metallic and Frozen Pure Grey.

The current M135i xDrive kicks off at $65,900 before on-road costs for the Pure in Australia, and extends to $70,900 before on-roads.

It goes head-to-head with the Mercedes-AMG A35 and new Audi S3, along with the Volkswagen Golf R. It sits above the newer 128ti in the range.

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