BMW’s 128ti flexes its muscles around Nurburgring to take on the Golf GTI
Should the Volkswagen Golf GTI be very afraid?
Slated to sit below the current BMW M135i is the brand’s yet to be launched 128ti model that will go head-to-head with the Volkswagen Golf GTI.
According to BMW, the 128ti is completing its final test laps at the ‘Green Hell’, formally known as the Nürburgring and will go on sale in November 2020.
It remains unknown at this stage if BMW South Africa has plans to introduce its newest member here in SA.
So what does it have?
The new BMW 128ti packs a newly developed four-cylinder TwinPower engine with 195 kW – that’s 30 kW less than the M135i xDrive.
The 128ti sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and benefits from a front-wheel-drive setup, mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential as well as a standard 8-speed Steptronic sport transmission.
It comes with an M sport suspension that lowers it by 10mm as well as the brand’s Performance Control.
According to BMW, the 128ti is 80kg lighter than the M135i xDrive. When it goes on sale, buyers will be able to add the optional sports tyres at no cost. Local availability to be announced.
Speaking of the 128ti’s direct rival, the Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI, it spawns a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 180 kW and 370 Nm of torque.
A seven-speed DSG transmission is offered as standard. The Golf GTI has built its fanbase as the most loved hot hatch in South Africa and it continues to impress in so many ways that I can possibly think of.
However, the hot hatch segment is a very competitive one and it remains to be seen if the Golf GTI will still retain its spot.
Source: BMW
