Latest news with #MSport
BBC News
5 days ago
- Automotive
- BBC News
European podium for Armstrong at Rally Poland
Motorsport Ireland driver Jon Armstrong picked up his best result of the European Rally Championship season by finishing third at Rally Rally Championship driver Martins Sesks won the rally by one minute and six seconds ahead of Polish driver Mikolaj Marczyk, with Armstrong and co-driver Shane Byrne 9.5 seconds further back in M-Sport driver ended the opening day of running in fourth place, and picked up a position when Roone Korhonen rolled out of second place on the 10th from Northern Ireland, started to challenge local hero Marczyk for second but picked up a 10-second penalty for clipping a bale at a chicane on the 12th proved to be costly as he finished 0.5 seconds in front, but the penalty kept him in third place. "What a weekend in Poland," said Armstrong. "I'm so pleased to have claimed my career-first gravel podium here, put down some good pace and come away with this great result for the team."The result, along with four additional bonus points for being second quickest on the final stage moves Armstrong up to sixth in the championship after four of the eight rounds. The next event takes place in Rome at the start of July.
AsiaOne
12-06-2025
- Automotive
- AsiaOne
BMW i4 eDrive35 M Sport review: Subtle updates for an electric BMW favourite, Lifestyle News
When BMW started going all in with the development of its electric vehicle (EV) strategy at the start of this decade, there were concerns that its electric cars would lose the fun and engaging edge that made the brand such a driver's favourite. After all, EVs are generally heavier than the equivalent internal combustion-powered car, and weight is the antithesis of what makes a car enjoyable to drive, according to enthusiasts at least. The BMW i4 however dispelled that notion completely, and it proved that BMW could produce an electric car that's actually well-balanced, without losing the essence of what makes a BMW so appealing. The i4 has now received a mild mid-life update, and while the updates aren't significant, it's really a case of refining a formula that already works well. What's new on the BMW i4? The primary changes are cosmetic in nature. For Singapore, the entry-level BMW i4 eDrive35 version as tested here now gets an M Sport kit as standard. This means it gets an M Aerodynamics package that consists of a sportier looking front bumper and a large rear diffuser. There are also M Sport brakes and new 19-inch wheels, which gives the car a slightly more aggressive look without coming across as too loud. The other visible changes are to its lights, with the BMW i4 now getting new LED headlights with a distinctive claw-like signature, and a refreshed taillight design with a laser pattern that supposedly enhances visibility at night. They're all very minor changes really, and the same goes for the interior. The main difference you'll spot are the M Sport steering wheel, as well as the air con vents that are now surrounded by cool ambient lighting. The infotainment software has also now been upgraded to the latest BMW OS 8.5, which has a redesigned user interface that makes it slightly easier to navigate between pages and functions. Does the updated BMW i4 drive any differently then? Not really, because fundamentally, the BMW i4 remains unchanged under the skin. In eDrive35 form, the single electric motor produces 282hp and 400Nm of torque. It's quite a decent amount of power for an entry-level model, and it allows the car to go from 0 to 100km/h in six seconds flat. Of course, if you want even more power, there's also the high performance i4 M50 available, with 536hp and 795Nm of torque on tap. But in Singapore's context, the regular BMW i4 eDrive35 should more than suffice. More importantly though, the i4 retains the fantastic balance that makes it one of the most enjoyable EVs to drive, with its 50:50 weight distribution, rear wheel drive setup and well-sorted chassis that handles corners with brilliant poise and finesse. The steering is quick and precise, although perhaps a bit overly light in feel. It doesn't offer the same kind of feedback as a traditional old school BMW, but it works well enough for the modern day driver. But even if you're not the kind who indulges in enthusiastic driving, the BMW i4 impresses with its all-round refinement. The power delivery is smooth and effective, and the ride quality is comfortable and composed, with its well-controlled suspension absorbing bumps with hardly any fuss. Is the BMW i4 a good buy? Certainly, if you're looking for an electric BMW that doesn't deviate too far from the classic BMW formula. Obviously, it's not going to feel quite the same without an engine, but in most other aspects the i4 lives up to the BMW reputation of offering an enthusiast-centric drive that's engaging and involving. Of course, at $339,888 with COE (as of June 2025), it's not exactly what you would call affordable. But the i4 is probably the closest you can get to having the purest BMW driving experience in the electric age. For that alone, the i4 deserves its status as arguably the most enjoyable electric BMW you can buy right now. [[nid:718808]] No part of this article can be reproduced without permission from AsiaOne.
AsiaOne
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- AsiaOne
More power and improved range: Updated BMW iX now in Singapore, Lifestyle News
The updated BMW iX is now in Singapore, and the German luxury electric SUV now features more power and improved range, alongside a minor refresh in its styling. The new iX was unveiled at an event held at New Bahru on June 5, and while the car looks fairly similar to the pre-facelift model externally, there are some slight enhancements to distinguish it as a new model. The most obvious ones are the diagonal LED elements in the headlight design, in place of the previous version's horizontal design. The grille design features diagonal lines within it as well, replacing the previous model's diamond/triangle pattern. It is also framed by the BMW Iconic Grille lighting element as standard now. For the first time, BMW will be offering the iX with an M Sport trim package in Singapore, which includes gloss black front air intakes, 21-inch M Sport rims and vertical reflectors on the lower rear bumper. The standard Sport trim will still be available, and it features more body-coloured design elements like on the lower front bumper for a more streamlined look. However, the main changes to the iX are under the skin. The sole drivetrain variant available is now the xDrive45, instead of the xDrive40 previously. That indicates an increase in power, and the BMW iX now produces a total of 402hp and 700Nm of torque, up from 322hp and 630Nm of torque. As a result, the car can now go from 0-100km/h in 5.1 seconds, one full second quicker than the outgoing model. The battery has now been reengineered, and now delivers a capacity of 94.8kWh, up from 71kWh previously. This means that the new BMW iX xDrive45 now has a range of 602km, a 40 per cent increase over the xDrive40's 425km range. Prices for the updated BMW iX xDrive45 start at $451,888 with COE (as of June 2025) for the Sport variant, while the M Sport version goes for $473,888, inclusive of COE. [[nid:713789]] No part of this article can be reproduced without permission from AsiaOne.
The Irish Sun
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
BMW 1 Series used cars: I've driven 47 used hatchback cars – this BMW is by far a standout
OK, so 47 is an estimate, but I have driven a lot of hatchbacks, and the BMW Series 1 is a standout. The quintessential hatchback is, of course, the Golf, which in all its incarnations has delivered – but the BMW pips it, and I'll explain why. Advertisement 4 I'd always associated BMWs with committed middle managers driving company cars. A few minutes behind the wheel of the BMW Series 1 M Sport changed all that. I'm not going to say that the VW Golf has had its day (or make a joke that the current version of the car is as unfashionable as the sport, as that would be cruel). But the BMW Series 1 does everything you need a hatch to do – but better than the others. What is a hatchback? A hatchback is a car with a large rear door that opens to create a large boot space. Advertisement READ MORE BUYING USED CARS Hatchback cars are flexible. You can typically carry 4 or more passengers in comfort. When you need extra carrying space, you can lower the back seats. (Make sure the passengers aren't in there first.) The VW Golf pretty much defined what a hatchback is and what it does, and – despite what we've written above – we still love it. Reviewers know it still does the business, but the Golf spawned a whole lot of imitators – some of which are now ready to challenge for the hatchback king's crown. Advertisement Most read in Buy Benefits of a hatchback Small, manoeuvrable, great handling Excellent visibility from the large rear window Sporty looks (especially souped-up variants, including GTI, M Sport, FR, etc.) Versatile, with space for 4 passengers and luggage Fold-down seats provide extra carrying capacity Perfect for families, city drivers or country dwellers BMW 1 Series: An overview When you're buying a hatchback, it's 50% heart and 50% head. It's got to look great and have the speed and performance you want. It's also got to be fuel efficient, reliable and – in these cash-strapped times – affordable. Let's work through the list. The BMW 1 Series looks, to me, fantastic. Looks are personal, so feel free to disagree. Advertisement The M Sport version goes above and beyond with 18' alloys, a rear spoiler and splitters, as well as a full leather interior and a beast of an engine. (Ticks box) It's hard to argue with performance. The majority of modern (post-2019) Series 1s are front-wheel drive with either a 3- or 4-cylinder engine. Front-wheel drive makes more space for luggage at the back without impacting the driving experience, which is impeccable. (Ticks box) In-car entertainment and tech is top-notch, as you'd expect on a premium BMW. (Ticks box) Advertisement It's not a class leader (and real-life returns will vary on your driving style, condition, etc.), but you can The BMW Series 1 was one of only two cars that achieved a 100% reliability rating from Affordable? Check out this round-up of used BMW Series 1 cars for sale. Buying a used car? Find cars for under £200 on Sun Motors Advertisement Used BMW 1 Series for sale Here are some of the BMW Series-1s for sale on Sun Motors that piqued our interest… Great value: BMW 1 SERIES 1.5 118i SE 4 Model: BMW Series 1 1.5 118i SE This Advertisement The mileage is low, with 65,000 miles half that of others on the market. The relatively low use shows up in the condition of the car, which is excellent. It's a well-presented car – and the good bits don't stop. The 118i SE model is a slightly more premium package (just below M Sport). The 138 bhp engine is a bit of a beast, but you'll still get almost 40mpg. (Check out the full specs on If we were looking for a great family runaround that would still turn a few heads, this would be a perfect choice. Advertisement M Sport Monster: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport 4 Model: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport BMW M Sport is legendary, with better internal trim, external styling and engine. If you're buying a BMW, we all want that little badge, don't we? (Forget about the insurance premiums for a minute…) Advertisement If comfort, acceleration and speed are important to you, then check out this You'll get the better body kit, leather interior, and large alloys. It's a superb-looking car. Under the bonnet, the BMW has a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine that will fly when you put your foot to the floor. Thinking with the head, it's a good price for a relatively new BMW Series-1 with just 61,000 miles under its belt. Advertisement Go on, you know you want it. Sun Motors: Buy your next vehicle today If you're part of the 3.3 million Brits looking to buy a used vehicle this year, Sun Motors is an ideal place to start * If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue Enjoy: A choice of fuel type whether it's petrol, diesel, electric or hybrid A range of models from convertible, estate, saloon and many more A range of top brands such as Ford, Volkswagen, Toyota and BMW Financing options Trusted dealers Latest model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive 4 Model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive We've gone for the super powerful and ultra-cool Advertisement That's achievable because of the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that knocks out 301 bhp. Ouch. It's a 4WD car, which delivers good handling, traction and stability. The 2025 model here is the latest version with updated and improved external styling. This isn't your average motorway munching BMW, but a powerful sports car that's been somehow sanitised a little bit. Our choice is basically a new car with 100 miles on the clock. Advertisement If you buy it, can we have a drive? Are BMW 1 Series reliable cars? The BMW 1 Series is the best in class for build quality, which means an ultra-reliable drive, which is vital for families. OK, things can still go wrong, but buy a good BMW Series 1, and you should be OK. Buying a used car? Check out Advertisement
The Sun
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
BMW 1 Series used cars: I've driven 47 used hatchback cars – this BMW is by far a standout
OK, so 47 is an estimate, but I have driven a lot of hatchbacks, and the BMW Series 1 is a standout. The quintessential hatchback is, of course, the Golf, which in all its incarnations has delivered – but the BMW pips it, and I'll explain why. 4 I'd always associated BMWs with committed middle managers driving company cars. A few minutes behind the wheel of the BMW Series 1 M Sport changed all that. I'm not going to say that the VW Golf has had its day (or make a joke that the current version of the car is as unfashionable as the sport, as that would be cruel). But the BMW Series 1 does everything you need a hatch to do – but better than the others. What is a hatchback? A hatchback is a car with a large rear door that opens to create a large boot space. Hatchback cars are flexible. You can typically carry 4 or more passengers in comfort. When you need extra carrying space, you can lower the back seats. (Make sure the passengers aren't in there first.) The VW Golf pretty much defined what a hatchback is and what it does, and – despite what we've written above – we still love it. Reviewers know it still does the business, but the Golf spawned a whole lot of imitators – some of which are now ready to challenge for the hatchback king's crown. Benefits of a hatchback Small, manoeuvrable, great handling Excellent visibility from the large rear window Sporty looks (especially souped-up variants, including GTI, M Sport, FR, etc.) Versatile, with space for 4 passengers and luggage Fold-down seats provide extra carrying capacity Perfect for families, city drivers or country dwellers BMW 1 Series: An overview When you're buying a hatchback, it's 50% heart and 50% head. It's got to look great and have the speed and performance you want. It's also got to be fuel efficient, reliable and – in these cash-strapped times – affordable. Let's work through the list. The BMW 1 Series looks, to me, fantastic. Looks are personal, so feel free to disagree. Parkers call it the best premium hatchback. The M Sport version goes above and beyond with 18' alloys, a rear spoiler and splitters, as well as a full leather interior and a beast of an engine. (Ticks box) It's hard to argue with performance. The majority of modern (post-2019) Series 1s are front-wheel drive with either a 3- or 4-cylinder engine. Front-wheel drive makes more space for luggage at the back without impacting the driving experience, which is impeccable. (Ticks box) In-car entertainment and tech is top-notch, as you'd expect on a premium BMW. (Ticks box) It's not a class leader (and real-life returns will vary on your driving style, condition, etc.), but you can expect around 40mpg from an older Series 1. (Ticks box) The BMW Series 1 was one of only two cars that achieved a 100% reliability rating from WhatCar?. (Ticks box) Affordable? Check out this round-up of used BMW Series 1 cars for sale. Buying a used car? Find cars for under £200 on Sun Motors here. Used BMW 1 Series for sale Here are some of the BMW Series-1s for sale on Sun Motors that piqued our interest… Great value: BMW 1 SERIES 1.5 118i SE 4 Model: BMW Series 1 1.5 118i SE FIND HERE This 2018 BMW Series-1 isn't the cheapest on the market at £6,949, but represents something of a bargain. The mileage is low, with 65,000 miles half that of others on the market. The relatively low use shows up in the condition of the car, which is excellent. It's a well-presented car – and the good bits don't stop. The 118i SE model is a slightly more premium package (just below M Sport). The 138 bhp engine is a bit of a beast, but you'll still get almost 40mpg. (Check out the full specs on Parkers.) If we were looking for a great family runaround that would still turn a few heads, this would be a perfect choice. M Sport Monster: BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport 4 FIND HERE BMW M Sport is legendary, with better internal trim, external styling and engine. If you're buying a BMW, we all want that little badge, don't we? (Forget about the insurance premiums for a minute…) If comfort, acceleration and speed are important to you, then check out this BMW 1 Series 1.5 118i M Sport. Stylish? Absolutely. You'll get the better body kit, leather interior, and large alloys. It's a superb-looking car. Under the bonnet, the BMW has a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine that will fly when you put your foot to the floor. Thinking with the head, it's a good price for a relatively new BMW Series-1 with just 61,000 miles under its belt. Go on, you know you want it. Latest model: BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive FIND HERE We've gone for the super powerful and ultra-cool BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive. We're talking about 0-60mph in under 5 seconds. That's achievable because of the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that knocks out 301 bhp. Ouch. It's a 4WD car, which delivers good handling, traction and stability. The 2025 model here is the latest version with updated and improved external styling. This isn't your average motorway munching BMW, but a powerful sports car that's been somehow sanitised a little bit. Our choice is basically a new car with 100 miles on the clock. If you buy it, can we have a drive? Are BMW 1 Series reliable cars? The BMW 1 Series is the best in class for build quality, which means an ultra-reliable drive, which is vital for families. OK, things can still go wrong, but buy a good BMW Series 1, and you should be OK. Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you're looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.
