BMW 130i Sport hits Oz

IF you want to drive BMW’s latest hot-hatch weapon you had better get in quick.

Just 120 examples of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder hatch will make it to Australia this year, representing a fraction of the 1600 1 Series hatch sales expected this year. The 130i is priced at $62,000.

As the range-topping 1 Series, the 130i Sport will be targeted at the Audi A3 3.2-litre V6, Alfa Romeo GTA 3.2-litre V6 and a host of other European rivals.

The 3.0-litre magnesium alloy six in the 130i produces 195kW at 6600rpm and maximum torque of 315Nm from 2500rpm to 4000rpm.

Weighing just 161kg, the new inline BMW six-cylinder is the lightest engine in its class.

The BMW 130i Sport is further aided in its handling abilities by the standard M Sport suspension, with its firmer damper and spring rates and the double-spoke 17-inch M alloy wheels.

The M Sport package also includes dual exhausts with chrome-plated ends, titanium-coloured headlight trim strips, fog lights, satin chrome finishes, aerodynamic bodykit, 17-inch M alloys and chrome-plated slats in the kidney-style radiator grille.