Its the entry into the much coveted M badge under the BMW brand and it certainly doesn't disappoint as we found it during a week of living with it.
The front with its M Performance design accents certainly drew attention wherever we went. The Matte grey colour with the black design accents just hit the right spot with many onlookers. We did get people who said it doesn't look like a typical BMW but then again all recent BMWs have had a new design direction that is proving successful judging by sales. LED Daytime Lights, design lines on the bonnet ensure the front has that dominating effects on the road. Our test unit came with optional 19" M Light alloy wheels in black and silver, something I would strongly advise buyers to go for as it really transforms the stance of the M135. M-Aerodynamic mirrors are taken from full-on M models whilst the Panoramic glass top adds a visual (outside) and spacious feel (inside).
At the back, something most people will see on the freeway (more on that later), there are 4 tail pipes that hint at the performance potential of the M135. LED lights, spoiler and black accents add visual excitement to those lucky enough to drive close to the Beemer. Overall, the M135 has a design that will appeal not only to new BMW owners but will meet the "Look at me" experience most M car owners get.
The interior follows the new design direction as recently anchored by the X3 where the large BMW Curved Display underlines the progressive, premium ambience of the interior. The fully digital display system comprises a 10.25-inch Information Display and a 10.7-inch Control Display. The multi functional M-Sports steering wheel has the right feel for that "you're driving an M car" feel. I do miss having M buttons on the steering allowing quick access to the driving modes. The loss of the infotainment rotary control is certainly missed as just using the touchscreen to control functions is not intuitive when driving. Stowage space inside is ok with the wireless charging pad not so easy to access for large smartphones. The leather front Sports seats hold you in the right places for dynamic driving. Interior space is not the best in the segment but 5 occupants fit comfortably.
Rear seat practicality is aided by folding rear seats whilst rear vents ensure passengers are always kept comfortable irrespective of outside temps.
The 2.0 Turbo 4-cylinder engine is not the most pleasing to listen to when pushed hard but it ensures the M135 gains speed at a rate that will stun many. With 233kW/400Nm, the M135 has recently been bettered by the Audi S3 at 245 kW and 420Nm but still beats the A35 AMG hatch which is credited with 225 kW. Zero to 100 km/h is achieved in 4.9 seconds thanks to the xDrive set up meaning all weather performance driving is possible. Traction in corner exit is phenomenal whilst the agility is much improved from the rather dull 1st Gen M135. The thrill is certainly there but it's hugely let down by the lack of aural pleasure from the 4 pipes with BMW engineers preferring to put the Vrr phaa through speakers. This means most owners will fit an aftermarket exhaust system to liberate much needed aural pleasure for both occupants and onlookers.
Priced at R 982,767.80, the M135 rivals the Audi S3 Sportback at R1,091,100 and the A35 AMG hatch at R 1 175 094 giving it a value advantage. The M135 is the perfect entry into the M (Performance) badge be that as it may, not the full on M badge but it allows you to enjoy the Beemer badge..... minus the Vrr Phaa.