BMW decided to take the Golf GTI head on with the 128ti, after learning lessons from its first batch of front-wheel drive cars.

I’d driven other Mk 8 Golf models including the R flagship wagon ... This is helped by the slimline tail-lights, rising shoulder line and well-executed front-end design with the signature BMW quad ...

The front-drive-only set-up retains the front-axle ... The engine is rated at 261bhp – 19bhp more than an equivalent Mk8 Golf GTI and 41bhp down on the M135i – with a peak torque rating ...

Now, the Munich company wanted to launch something with front-wheel-drive that would directly compete with heavyweights like the Golf GTI. Still, the “ti” badge has its own history in the BMW ...