Before BMW dropped ‘i’ from its electric models, this M135i had the same four-cylinder turbo engine producing 233kW and 400Nm peaks – with its seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox being its main differentiating factor.
Its chassis also gets upgraded, featuring improvements that make it more rigid and engaging to hold by its scruff of the neck.
Engine
Though not one of the more powerful hot hatches available today, the BMW M135 xDrive still feels fast. Overtaking slower traffic is simple and it is capable of comfortably traversing Germany’s motorway network.
BMW’s smallest M car boasts 296 horsepower (221 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque from its upgraded seven-speed dual clutch automatic. Australia gets slightly more robust versions; nonetheless both versions will propel a hatchback to 62 mph in just 4.9 seconds; that’s one tenth faster than its predecessor model!
These extra performance gains are enough to keep the M135 ahead of other all-wheel drive German hatchbacks (such as Golf R and Cupra Leon) but not quite enough to pull ahead of Mercedes-AMG A35 class rivals like Audi A4. Unfortunately, its keen steering and rowdy ride in its firmest setting may take some getting used to; though with M Technology Package installed this experience becomes more palatable but at the expense of some fun.
Transmission
BMW recently gave their top-of-the-line 1 Series range-topper an extensive update, giving it its own model code and making them claim it can now compete against cars like VW Golf R and Mercedes AMG A35. But will its new drive modes, dual clutch transmission and tweaked chassis be enough to catapult them to prominence in hot hatch class?
The BMW M135’s 233kW/406Nm engine can be configured as either petrol or diesel and is connected to its dual clutch automatic transmission using an updated version. That allows it to reach 100km/h in under five seconds despite now weighing 160 kg more than its predecessor.
Thanks to its dual-clutch transmission, which proves less hesitant than some of its rivals and does an exceptional job of smoothly dispensing power and managing torque across all four wheels, the M135 feels more agile than its predecessor and can put its massive power to good use on difficult tarmac surfaces.
Chassis
The BMW 1 Series M135 xDrive hatchback offers maximum enjoyment due to its innovative dual-clutch auto transmission and lively turbo four. With an astonishingly quick 4.9sec 0-100km/h sprint time and classic German 250km/h top speed, this car promises thrills at every corner.
Sports seats on this vehicle are comfortable and supportive, offering ample range of motion in all directions and providing ample lateral support. Standard dual driver-oriented screens, a chunky steering wheel and an attractive mix of Alcantara/vegan leather (known as Veganza) add an upscale ambience to its cabin.
The car’s drive modes have an enormous effect on its chassis, with Eco or Personal modes providing less firm rides than Sport mode. Unfortunately, its menu system can be cumbersome and could benefit from physical buttons for quick shortcuts; additionally, its constant reminders about keeping to speed limits can become tiresome over time.
Safety
In Sport mode, the BMW M135 feels highly focused and agile. Its chassis is slightly stiffer than that of its sibling 1 Series 118 and feels considerably faster when cornering or powering uphill. Furthermore, its new twin-clutcher allows drivers to push right through to its limiter; plus there’s even an eye-catching rev bar in its head-up display for extra fun.
However, that enhanced driving experience might come at the cost of daily comfort. Even in Comfort mode, the M135 wasn’t quite as compliant over bumps and ruts as its hot hatch competition; also we found the beeping speed limit warning quite intrusive and needed to dig through menus to disable it manually. Most other driver assistance functions were reliable however – including standard Harman Kardon audio system and front sports seats and four-piston front and single-piston rear M Sport brakes available as an upgrade option.
