We’re in Detroit today to bring you coverage from the 2011 North American International Auto Show, beginning with the awesome BMW 1 Series M Coupe.

The 1M is a hardcore version of BMW 1 Series Coupe, powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L inline-six developing 340 bhp and 332 lb-ft of torque, with another 37 lb-ft available via an overboost function. This propels the car from 0-100 kph (62 mph) in just 4.9 seconds, and it’ll soldier on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

It’s an excellent car and is being hailed as the spiritual successor to the BMW M3 E30, but unfortunately, less than 1,000 units are planned for the US.

All photos Copyright © 2011 Igor Magun/The Blog of Cars