Kentish Express Ashford & District
BMW M135i xDrive
WHAT’S NEW?
So the key change on this new third-generation 1 Series is beneath the surface. It’s now AWD (regular 1 Series models send their power to the front wheels) and utilises a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol unit. More on that later. Elsewhere the design has changed quite dramatically, with the huge new grille being another point of contention, while these ‘M’ versions benefit from some questionable bronze accents. Improvements have also been made on the spaciousness front, as well as with technology - this new M135i is able to reverse itself down narrow streets and help you find parking spaces, for instance.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
The 322bhp 3.0-litre unit found in the old M140i was absolutely packed with character, so you can forgive people for mourning its loss. Instead, this new M135i uses a four-cylinder 2.0-litre unit, which produces 302bhp and 450Nm of torque. While undoubtedly not as vocal or as interesting as its predecessor, the past is the past, and this new engine is a good suit. Power is sent to all wheels with BMW’s xDrive system, and a new eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission is utilised. In terms of performance, 0-60mph comes in a flash - just 4.6 seconds, and it would keep going to 155mph. On the running costs front, BMW says it’ll return 35.8mpg, with CO2 emissions of 180g/km.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
BMW’s design has turned divisive in recent years to say the least, and while not as controversial as other cars from the firm, the looks of the 1 Series will certainly split opinion more than before. The grille is the biggest point of contention - it sticks out like a sore thumb on what is otherwise quite an appealing front end. The rear is a bit generic, too. Squint and hide the BMW badges and you could be looking at a multitude of family hatchbacks. It’s a bit of shame when the last model felt like it had a bit more of an identity, and was more easily identifiable as a BMW. But styling will always divide opinion, and many will welcome this model’s more angular and imposing look - at least from the front anyway.