BMW’s M Performance group builds cars like the not-for-U.S.-consumption M550d xDrive sedan, but it also designs and builds components to increase the performance of existing BMW models. The group focuses on four main categories, including aerodynamics, drivetrain, cockpit and chassis.
It’s ironic that M Performance was founded in reaction to the success of aftermarket BMW tuners and parts suppliers, and it’s clear to us that the group has some impressive resources at its disposal. While most aftermarket tuners test parts in competition, we’re not sure how many have the resources to wind-tunnel test aero kits on a rolling platform, which is just one reason to look at BMW’s offerings.
We’d love to see the M Performance group’s M135 hatchback (as seen on track in the video) on these shores, as it could be the ultimate blend of performance and practicality. BMW hasn’t confirmed the rear-drive hot hatch for the U.S., but they haven’t given a flat denial yet, either. We’ve got our fingers crossed.
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
