In this BMW M135i review, we look at why BMW dropped its rear-drive six-cylinder formula for a turbocharged four-cylinder xDrive platform, and whether that change genuinely suits drivers facing unpredictable weather, tight budgets and daily commuting on busy UK roads.
BMW M135i Specs and Generations
The newer F70 generation uses a 2.0L B48A20 engine producing 300hp and 400Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, a mechanical limited-slip differential and adaptive M suspension, reaching 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds with claimed economy of 37.2mpg under WLTP testing.
The older BMW F40 M135i delivered 306hp and 450Nm through an 8-speed automatic and xDrive all-wheel drive, hitting 0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds and topping out at 250km/h. Its Torsen differential and ARB chassis technology sharpened traction on twisty British roads.
Performance and Drive
Around town, the BMW M135i feels surprisingly relaxed, with adaptive suspension smoothing potholes and broken tarmac while the automatic gearbox handles traffic smoothly, though it occasionally hesitates when a quick downshift is needed for overtaking gaps.
On motorways, the car settles confidently at speed, while sport mode sharpens throttle response for overtaking. On twisty roads it grips hard and corners with poise, even if it lacks the playful, tail-happy character older rear-drive BMWs once offered.
Real Owner Experiences: Pros and Cons
Owners of the BMW M135i consistently praise performance and interior quality, plus the confidence xDrive brings on wet, slippery UK B-roads, though many report a metallic wastegate rattle that some dealers, including Sytner Sheffield, dismissed as a normal characteristic.
Plenty of owners still recommend the M135i BMW package despite the engine note debate, since the four-cylinder unit cannot replicate the old six-cylinder’s character, and some find the amplified cabin sound pumped through the speakers a little artificial and synthetic.
Space and Practicality
The BMW M135i offers generous head and leg room up front, while rear passengers now fit comfortably thanks to wider doors and better under-seat foot space. Boot capacity reaches 380 litres, ahead of the Mercedes A35 and the Audi S3 in this competitive segment.
Interior, Infotainment and Accessories
The cabin feels purposeful rather than flashy, built around a 10.3-inch iDrive touchscreen with intuitive rotary control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Material quality rivals the Audi S3, even without the dramatic twin-screen theatrics found in some rivals.
MPG, Emissions, Tax and Safety
Official economy sits between 35.8 and 38.2mpg, though real-world mixed driving typically returns closer to 30mpg in everyday use. Once the BMW M135i price climbs past £40,000, owners also face an additional VED surcharge running from year two through year five.
The BMW M135i’s safety platform earned a full five-star Euro NCAP rating, with strong adult and child occupant scores. Optional driver assistance adds lane departure warning, blind spot detection and rear cross-traffic alerts for safer everyday driving overall.
Reliability and Problems
BMW typically sits mid-table for reliability, though the BMW 1 Series M135i fares better than many stablemates, and its three-year unlimited-mileage warranty beats Audi’s mileage-capped cover. The wastegate rattle remains the most commonly reported mechanical niggle.
Price and Depreciation
Used examples start from around £14,990, making a BMW M135i for sale genuinely tempting, though new finance deals can slide into negative equity surprisingly quickly. Buyers should also watch carefully for Cat S examples appearing cheaply at auction houses.
A used M340i Saloon holds its value noticeably better and carries the desirable B58 six-cylinder engine, making it a strong cross-shop alternative for buyers chasing long-term financial sense over outright daily usability, all-weather grip and traction on wet roads.
Verdict
The BMW M135i remains a genuinely fast, grippy and refined daily hot hatch that suits Britain’s unpredictable weather brilliantly, even if rivals like the Golf R or a used M340i better reward those chasing pure driving character, steering feel and soul.
FAQs
Is the M135i fast?
Yes, it hits 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds thanks to a 300hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and xDrive all-wheel drive.
What is the price of a M135i?
Used examples start from around £14,990, while new models climb past £40,000 where an additional VED surcharge kicks in from year two.
Is the M135i an M car?
It’s an M Performance model rather than a full M car, meaning it prioritises daily usability and all-weather grip over the raw, track-focused character of true M division vehicles.
Is the 135i a good car?
Yes, it’s a fast, refined, and grippy daily hot hatch that handles Britain’s wet roads brilliantly, though rivals like the Golf R offer more driving soul and character.