New BMW M135 review!

TL;DR

The BMW M135 offers style and power but lacks driving thrill.

Transcript

this is the new BMW m135 the sporty version of BMW's new one series it has more power M more style M and more M but it costs more money so is it worth it I'm Matt Watson and you're watching gwow this is the new BMW m135 it has more power more style and more nness than a normal one series but it costs more money so is it worth it I'm mat Watson and ... Read More

Key Insights

• The BMW M135 features a more aggressive design with unique alloy wheels, a larger roof spoiler, and genuine quad tailpipes, differentiating it from the standard one series.
• Interior upgrades include sports seats and steering wheel, M-colored LED lights, and a responsive infotainment system, though many features are optional on the standard model.
• The M135 is powered by a 2-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
• Despite the sporty upgrades, the M135 lacks the driving engagement and thrill offered by competitors like the VW Golf R, with a less responsive steering and a more isolated driving experience.
• The price starts at £43,000, but with optional features, it can reach £55,000, which is considered high for the level of driving excitement it provides.
• The M135 has a lower power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor, with a reduction in horsepower and torque, and an increase in weight.
• While the car has some advanced features like a mechanical limited slip differential and upgraded chassis, it lacks adaptive dampers, which are marketed misleadingly.
• The M135 is ideal for those seeking a stylish, fast BMW with brand prestige, but not for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance hot hatch.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the key design changes in the BMW M135?

The BMW M135 features several design upgrades over the standard model, including horizontal slats in the grille, a more aggressive front bumper, unique alloy wheel designs, and gloss black side mirrors and skirts. At the rear, it sports a larger roof spoiler and genuine quad tailpipes, enhancing its sporty appearance.

Q: How does the interior of the M135 differ from the standard model?

The M135's interior includes sports seats, a sports steering wheel, and M-colored LED lights. While it has a responsive infotainment system, many features like the M Sport seats and steering wheel are available as options on the standard model, making the interior upgrades less exclusive to the M135.

Q: What is the performance capability of the BMW M135?

The BMW M135 is powered by a 2-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. It features a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. However, its driving dynamics are reportedly less engaging compared to competitors.

Q: What are the drawbacks of the BMW M135 in terms of driving experience?

The BMW M135 lacks the driving engagement and thrill found in competitors like the VW Golf R. The steering and chassis do not provide much feedback, and the gear shifts are slower. Additionally, the engine noise is artificially enhanced through the speakers, detracting from the authentic driving experience.

Q: Is the BMW M135 worth its price tag?

The BMW M135 starts at £43,000, with fully equipped models reaching £55,000. While it offers style and speed, its high price may not justify the lack of driving thrill and engagement compared to more dynamic competitors, making it a better choice for those prioritizing brand prestige over performance.

Q: What are the optional features available for the BMW M135?

Optional features for the BMW M135 include painted brake calipers, larger 19-inch alloy wheels, and the M Dynamic pack, which offers upgraded suspension, body bracing, and lightweight wheels. Additionally, there are various interior and exterior customization options, such as different trims and colors.

Q: How does the BMW M135 compare to its predecessor?

The new BMW M135 has a lower power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor due to a reduction in horsepower and torque and an increase in weight. It also lacks the adaptive dampers that were available in the previous model, which affects its ride quality and handling dynamics.

Q: Who is the BMW M135 best suited for?

The BMW M135 is best suited for individuals seeking a stylish, fast BMW with brand prestige, rather than those seeking a high-performance hot hatch. It offers a comfortable ride with good straight-line speed but lacks the driving engagement and thrill that driving enthusiasts typically seek in a hot hatch.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The BMW M135 offers a refreshed design with sporty elements like unique alloy wheels and quad tailpipes, enhancing its visual appeal over the standard model.

• Inside, the M135 features sports seats, a dynamic steering wheel, and a responsive infotainment system, though many upgrades are available on the standard model with the M Sport pack.

• Performance-wise, the M135 is equipped with a 2-liter turbo engine and a dual-clutch gearbox, but its driving dynamics fall short compared to rivals, making it less thrilling for driving enthusiasts.