The BMW 128ti is going back to its roots by creating car that isn’t as contrived as some of its other performance models. The ‘Turismo Internazionale’ designation was last used on the 1997 323ti. Now BMW 128ti is returning to its driving roots.

Unlike the previous one, the new 128ti has front-wheel drive, and some features are borrowed from the M135i xDrive flagship. These include an automatic transmission, stiff stabilizers, M Sport brakes and a detonated version of the same 2.0-liter petrol engine.

Being a front-wheel drive model, the powerful hatchback is BMW’s answer to the upcoming Volkswagen GTI TCR. It got an M Sport suspension that lowered it by 10mm to improve handling, and there’s also a Torsen differential with limited traction for better traction.

The model also comes with visual changes, from a more aggressive body kit, through a black kidney grille. Inside, you’ll find red trim, including on the backrests of the standard Sensatec/cloth sport seats. Red “ti” lettering is stitched into the centre armrest while red contrast stitching abounds. The standard equipment includes M pedals with stainless-steel caps, M door-sill strips up front and M seat belts. The sport seats are available as an option in perforated Dakota leather (in black with blue accents or red with grey accents). M sport seats with integral head restraints and extendable seat surfaces are furthermore optionally offered.

Enthusiasts probably won’t like the “fake” engine noise either. BMW’s first hatchback with front-wheel drive emits a fake engine sound to “enrich the sporty driver experience”. The headlights are dimmed, and this tone is accompanied by the side mirror housings.

The BMW has a four-cylinder engine with 262 hp and 400 Nm of torque. The BMW 128i accelerate from 0 to 60 in 6.1 seconds and reaches a maximum of 155 mph. The engine is paired exclusively with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, therefore, without a third pedal.