After months of speculation, BMW has officially confirmed the 2011 135i will be given a variety of performance upgrades.
Like the redesigned 535i, the 135i will drop the current 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six for the new twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six (dubbed the N55). While it doesn't sound like a huge change (both engines produce 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque), BMW says the new engine will offer "better throttle response and even more fuel efficiency."
More importantly, the 135i will be offered with an optional 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT). It features dedicated paddles for upshifting (right paddle) and downshifting (left paddle) as well as a console-mounted e-shifter.
Look for the updated 135i to start arriving at US dealerships this spring