I don’t know how BMW managed to turn the 1 Series into a last-generation Ford Focus, but this is the year 2020 and time seems to be going backwards, in slow motion. And going back in time is BMW’s mantra for the recently launched 128ti, the company’s first front-wheel-drive hot hatch. The BMW 128ti is powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine outing-putting 261bhp and 400Nm of torque (295 lb-ft). The 8-speed auto transmission is tuned to deliver the 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 155mph.

The BMW 128ti is effectively a detuned version of the M135 xDrive. But it is equally dressed to kill. Or at least does have superfluous killer looks because the M Sport exterior and interior specification is standard. Much of the body trim is carried over from the M135 xDrive. Exclusives include the 18-inch Y‑spoke 553 M bi-colour light-alloy wheels.

BMW allows a for a number of factory paint finishes and combinations. For example, specifiy the 128ti in Melbourne Red metallic or Misano Blue metallic, the accents and “ti” badge on the sill (which can all be deleted, if desired) come in black and the sill reverts to body colour. 

The interior is also based on BMW’s M Sport specification, with exclusive red accents. The suspension is exclusive says BMW. In reality, the de-tuned M Sport suspension features revised anti-roll bars and mount and stiffer springs and shock absorber’s. The car is lowered by 10mmm.

The BMW 128ti is equipped with the same Torsen limited-slip differential as the BMW M135i xDrive. This system is specifically designed to improve traction, agility, and cornering stability.

In summary, the BMW 128ti is very much a detuned M135i xDrive. Pricing starts from £32,995, the launch date is scheduled for November 2020.