Almost from the moment the 2-door coupé version of BMW’s 1-Series was announced, petrolheads and the automotive media were buzzing about a potential ‘M’ version. For a long time, BMW remained coy on the subject, but rumours that just such a car was being developed never really went away, and finally, earlier this year, it was announced that a factory 1-Series M would be produced. The car cannot follow the M3/M5/M6 naming convention of its stablemates, as the M1 name was already used by BMW’s rare 1970s supercar, but there is no doubt that this 1-Series is every inch an ‘M’ machine.

For starters, it’s got a power-to-weight ratio of 227bhp per ton, and more horses under the bonnet than the previous-generation M3. Not too shabby for starters. But M cars were always about more than just headline power figures, and the 1-Series M brings a lightweight chassis and advanced aluminium suspension components to the party to ensure top-notch handling on back roads.

It looks the part, too. The standard 1-Series has divided opinion in the styling department, but this new M version is suitably purposeful and beefy, with widened wheel arches front and rear, 19-inch alloys, a discreet spoiler lip generating additional downforce and a rear apron with side openings echoing the look of the front air intakes. It also boasts chrome twin tailpipes and L-shaped rear light clusters with two light banks fed by LED units.

Stripped-out, track-focused versions will no doubt follow in due course, but for now, the ‘standard’ 1-Series M Coupé comes with an extensive range of standard equipment, including air-conditioning, cruise control, MP3-capable CD player and six speakers. It also has a Boston leather interior with Anthracite headlining and Alcantara trim. Optional extras include two-zone automatic air-conditioning, ‘Comfort Access,’ a Harman Kardon surround-sound stereo system, a navigation system with hard-drive storage, adaptive headlights and high-beam assist.

BMW says the 1-Series M Coupé goes on sale in March 2011, priced at €68,100. Market launch will be in May 2011.