G Power launches 440hp M140i upgrade

Goes as fast as an M3, looks like any other 1 Series - perfect!

While a good few years old now, the inherent appeal of the BMW M Performance 1 and 2 Series models hasn't yet waned: put a large, powerful engine in a relatively compact, rear-wheel drive car, make it reasonably affordable and the popularity is easy to understand. Sure, it's perhaps not the most dynamically adept hot hatch out there, but it is unique in the sector.

Since its introduction in 2012, the turbocharged M135i (and M140i successor) has attracted plentiful attention from tuners, and this latest kit from G Power proves that work continues apace. Following on from a recent V1 upgrade for the 40i engined cars, G Power is now onto V2, and that means 440hp...

Yep, 440hp in a pretty standard looking 1 Series. Allied to 435lb ft and a delimit, G Power claims more than 174mph is possible. Building on the V1 software upgrade - or "optimised maps for the engine electronics" in G Power speak - V2 for the 40i 3.0-litre introduces stainless steel downpipes which are claimed to add another 40hp. Yes, a bold claim to say the least. But getting air in and out of turbocharged engines is key to power gains, and if they've been designed to work with the remap... Alright, 440 might be overstating their effectiveness, but however much more than 400hp it actually is, it remains a very exciting prospect in a small, five-door hatch. G Power says its work "remains within the technically acceptable limits with regard to the usable potential of the engines", while also offering M3 levels of performance.

Sounds ideal, right? Best of all, G-Power is marking its 35th anniversary by offering 35 per cent off its wares - that means the 400hp V1 upgrade is €1,740. With early cars now down to less than £14k, there's the potential for a pretty affordable 400hp there. But if that leads to a full overhaul of brakes, suspension, tyres and the like, then don't blame us...