Colin Turkington expects the traction and tyre management capabilities of the BMW 125i M Sport to play into Team BMW’s hands at this weekends British Touring Car Championship season opener.
The two-time champion is yet to test the team’s new B48 engine, funded by BMW and developed by Neil Brown Engineering, though Rob Collard completed limited testing mileage with the new unit during Media Day.
Tyre management has always been a key strength of the rear-wheel drive 1-series package, with Dunlop’s new compound of SportMaxx tyre expected to further improve grip and pace by around half a second per mile.
Having claimed both of his championship titles at Brands Hatch, the Ulsterman is eager to secure immediate success for West Surrey Racing’s new manufacturer-backed BMW programme – a podium finish would be the team’s 75th with the 1-series.
“To race for Team BMW in 2017 is a dream come true. WSR is like a second home to me and to be part of a Manufacturer entry as well really raises the stakes,” commented Turkington.
“Brands Hatch is an incredibly important circuit in terms of my BTCC career. I had my first win and pole position here and secured both of my championship titles at the track.
“I’d love to add to those successes this weekend with the latest version of the BMW. It seems to be a car that was made for tracks like the Brands Hatch Indy Circuit because it’s so strong in terms of traction and looking after its tyres. I’m expecting a strong weekend.”