After an absence of over a decade, BMW’s legendary ‘ti’ model designation returns with the new 128ti. The 128ti is based on the M Sport model specification for the 1-Series. First deliveries in Europe will start towards the end of this year.
With M Sport specification as standard, the new 128ti is described as an authentic ‘Turismo Internazionale’, delivering on its sporting promise with features like the Torsen limited-slip differential, M Sport suspension, and a 2-litre petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.
Exterior design elements include distinctive front and rear aprons with additional trim such as outer air intakes from the M135i xDrive and the trim for the Air Curtains (in red).
The extended Shadowline trim with a black BMW kidney grille and dual 90 mm diameter black chrome tailpipe finishers come as standard. An even darker front-end appearance can be achieved with the optional BMW Individual lights Shadowline, which are largely devoid of chrome.
Suspension items from M135i
The exclusively front-wheel-drive model also has the firmer anti-roll bars and anti-roll bar mounts from the M135i xDrive, plus stiffer modified springs and shock absorbers and a 10 mm drop in height. A model-specific steering setup minimises torque steer while there are weight savings of around 80 kgs (compared to theM135i xDrive).
18-inch Y‑spoke 553 M bi-colour light-alloy wheels are exclusive to the BMW 128ti. Michelin Pilot Sport 4) in 225/40 R18 size are available on request.
Customised control systems
The mechanical limited-slip differential is assisted by several electronic control systems. One system that has been specially modified for the 128ti is BMW Performance Control, whose ‘sharper’ yaw moment distribution boosts rear axle agility.
ARB (near-actuator wheel slip limitation) technology is also utilised, as it is on all models in the 1-Series. This newly developed traction control system features a slip controller positioned directly in the engine control unit rather than in the control unit for the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system, enabling ARB to work 10 times faster.
As a result, not only is operation smoother and more sensitive, the system can also make maximum use of the potential traction offered by different road surfaces. The ARB technology works with DSC to significantly reduce the power understeer that can affect front-wheel-drive cars.
The engine is a direct offshoot of the BMW Group’s most powerful 4-cylinder unit. With BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the 2-litre engine produces 265 bhp/400 Nm and is claimed to go from 0 to 100 km/h within 6.1 seconds.
Red to emphasise sporty character
Moving inside, the sporty character is emphasised by red accents which are a bold contrast to the black headlining. A large ‘Race Red’ surface adorns the front centre sections of the standard Sensatec/cloth sport seats (M Sport seats are optionally available). A red ‘ti’ is stitched into the centre armrest which – like the door armrests, the door panels, the instrument panel and floor mat edging – also features red contrast stitching.
The steering wheel rim and airbag cover of the standard M Sport steering wheel also feature red stitching. Standard equipment includes the M door sill strips on the front door openings, and M seat belts. The load compartment has a volume of 380 litres, which can be expanded to 1,200 litres if the backrests are folded down.
The infotainment system runs on BMW’s Operating System 7.0 with a display screen of up to 10.25 inches. Besides BMW Live Cockpit Professional, gesture control is also available and the customer can specify a 9.2‑inch Head-Up Display.
First details of new 6th generation BMW M3, to go on sale in early 2021
