HAILED as the most potent 1 Series model to date, BMW's new six-cylinder 265bhp 130i arrives in September.

Taking BMW's lightweight magnesium-alloy six-cylinder 258hp petrol engine as a basis, BMW engineers have wrung every last drop of power from the powerplant, making the 130i the most powerful engine in its class and the most powerful six-cylinder engine under a BMW bonnet, bar the M3.

It is also the only car in its segment to offer a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout - the optimum set-up for on-road dynamics.

Technicians have also given the car an hp boost, with the 130i now producing seven horsepower more than the 330i, 530i and 630i. Similarly, torque has also been uprated to 315Nm from 300Nm.

The improvements in engine output enable the car to deliver a class-leading zero to 62mph time of 6.1 seconds, while top speed remains limited to 155mph. Consumption is still pretty frugal, with the 130i recording 30.7mpg on the combined cycle, while the EU4 emission figure is 221g/km.

The exciting performance figures of the BMW 130i are due in part to the special valve control mechanisms on the 2,996cc engine that ensure optimum combustion and engine breathing at all times. An electrically driven water pump also cuts down on internal engine friction and improves efficiency. Power is transmitted to the road via a standard six-speed manual gearbox.

Additionally, for the first time on a 1 Series, customers are able to specify active steering, which varies the steering ratio depending on road speed and has been tuned specifically to the 130i.

Complementing the class-leading performance of the BMW 130i is a new range of M Sport models across the 1 Series range and on other BMW variants.

At the front, the cars have a lower front spoiler styled for increased aerodynamic efficiency while at the side, sculpted sills change the profile of the car. There are also bespoke 17-inch or 18-inch double-spoke alloy wheels and special M Sports suspension.

Standard interior trim includes special M sports seats in an exclusive cloth/leather combination, leather steering wheel, doorsill finishes and an anthracite headlining.

Similar M Sport interior and exterior enhancements will be available from September on 3 and 5 Series and X3 models and the new styling is expected to be offered on more models in the future.

Price on the road for the 130i SE is £24,745, and for the 130i M Sport £26,515.

Updated: 11:02 Friday, July 29, 2005