This is the high-performance version of the BMW 1 Series Coupe and was announced via an official YouTube video and press release on July 9, 2011.
At launch, some 6 months later, it was confirmed as the smallest and cheapest M model ever made by BMW. Unlike the other M models, the 1 Series M Coupe is powered by a twin turbocharged version of the N54 engine (tuned by M). Its body underwent some important modification as compared to the 1 Series Coupe, in the sense that is has a wider track and bigger body, even though it weighs some 77 lbs (35 kg) less than its sibling.