BMW’s performance hatchback has always had one job: to inject M-division thrills into a compact, everyday-friendly package. Now, with the arrival of the new BMW M135 xDrive, that mission continues—but with a cleaner badge and sharper focus. Gone is the old M135i nameplate, with the ‘i’ now reserved for BMW’s electric line-up. But beyond the badge, this new M135 aims to take the fight directly to the refreshed Audi S3.
So, is it up to the challenge?
Tech Specs
| Model tested | BMW M135 xDrive |
| Irish pricing | 1 Series from €41,645, M135 xDrive from €69,985 before options |
| Powertrain | petrol – turbocharged 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid system |
| Transmission | automatic – seven-speed gearbox, all-wheel drive |
| Body style | five-door, five-seat hatchback |
| CO2 emissions | 175g/km |
| Irish motor tax | €600 per annum |
| Fuel consumption | 7.7 litres/100km (36.7mpg) |
| Top speed | 250km/h |
| 0-100km/h | 4.9 seconds |
| Max power | 300hp |
| Max torque | 400Nm |
| Boot space | 380 litres rear seats up, 1,200 litres rear seats folded |
| Kerb weight | 1,625kg |
Design
Visually, the M135 xDrive draws heavily from the latest 1 Series refresh. The new front end features a wider, flatter nose that looks sleeker in photos than it does in person. Thankfully, BMW hasn’t gone overboard with its grille design—something we can’t always say about Munich’s recent output.
This hot hatch wears its intent clearly: aggressive bumpers, black exterior trim, and 19-inch alloys frame upgraded brakes. At the rear, four 90mm exhaust tips leave no doubt about its performance pedigree. It’s got just enough “boy racer” energy without crossing into caricature.
Interior
Inside, the M135 xDrive mirrors the minimalist design of the latest 1 Series. The centerpiece is BMW’s massive Curved Display, which merges the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system into one sweeping screen. Running on BMW’s Operating System 9, it’s crisp, customizable, and quick to respond—though the near-total reliance on touch controls won’t please everyone.
Material quality is a mixed bag. Some plastics feel cheaper than you’d expect in a €70,000 car, but the overall build is solid, and the cabin layout feels sportier than ever. Highlights include microsuede sports seats with illuminated M logos, a thick-rimmed steering wheel marked at 12 o’clock, and shift paddles borrowed from the M3 Competition.
Practicality remains decent, too. The M135 offers 380 litres of boot space, putting it on par with the Golf GTI and comfortably ahead of the smaller 120.
Performance
Under the bonnet lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing around 300hp, channelling power to all four wheels through a seven-speed automatic gearbox. The result? A 0–100km/h sprint in under five seconds and a limited top speed of 250km/h.
Out on the road, the M135 xDrive feels effortlessly rapid. The all-wheel-drive system provides immense traction, while the adaptive suspension and sport steering deliver agility and confidence through corners. The car sits 8mm lower than the standard 1 Series, adding to its planted feel.
However, not all is perfect. The ride is firm—borderline harsh in Sport mode—and while the handling precision impresses, the engine note disappoints. BMW blames emissions rules for the muted soundtrack, but even the piped-in audio enhancement can’t fully mask the lack of character.
Fuel economy sits around 8L/100km, which is respectable for its power but won’t win green awards.
Tech and Safety
BMW’s digital interface is rich in features, though perhaps too rich. Key functions like drive modes and climate control are buried in touchscreen menus. The climate settings are always visible, which helps, but physical buttons would still be better.
On the safety front, the M135 xDrive inherits its five-star bones from the previous 1 Series, along with improved driver assistance systems. The lane-keeping system feels smoother and less intrusive, though the mandatory speed limit alerts remain irritatingly inaccurate.
Practical Details
The M135 isn’t just a toy—it’s a usable daily driver. With three ISOFIX points (front passenger and two rear), it can handle family duties when needed. And standard kit is generous: curved display, navigation, heated seats, reversing camera, and full M Sport interior touches all included.
Of course, BMW’s options list remains as tempting as it is pricey. Eye-catching Signal Green paint costs extra, while the M Sport Pro Pack (€3,500) adds illuminated seats and a few other bespoke details.
Verdict
The updated BMW M135 xDrive may not revolutionize the hot hatch formula, but it doesn’t need to. It’s fast, composed, packed with tech, and oozes everyday usability. The ride is firm and the soundtrack a touch synthetic, but its poise, build quality, and performance credentials make it a top contender in the class.
Against the Audi S3, it’s now a genuine toss-up—BMW’s made sure of that.
If you want a compact car that can thrill on a backroad yet stay sensible in the city, the M135 xDrive delivers that dual personality better than most.
Bottom Line:
✅ Superb handling and traction
✅ High-quality interior design
✅ Strong performance and tech package
❌ Firm ride quality
❌ Underwhelming engine sound
❌ Touchscreen-heavy controls
Price: From €69,995 (Ireland)
Rivals: Audi S3, Mercedes-AMG A35, Volkswagen Golf R
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