BMW M135i 3.0 3 Door Review: Bavarian killer hatch

What we like:

Sweet handling and exhaust note.

What we dislike:

Nothing.

A near 50:50 weight distribution (52:48) means this car changes direction faster than its actual weight suggests. A sore point for most enthusiasts though is the missing locking differential that was there in the previous 1M. Though to be honest, during our drive the M135i gripped well even without it. However the rear does have a tendency to get unstuck if you approach your corner entry very very hot. But in most instances, the fat 245 Michielins will do a good job of keeping it in check.

The four pot front brakes are brilliant at anchoring down this hot hatch but initial engagement is a little softer than I would’ve liked.

Despite giving the impression of a double clutch box (DCT), the M135i actually runs on an 8-speed ZF gearbox. In auto, the gearbox is smooth and buttery through gear changes. But the speed it exudes in manual gear changes using the paddles makes it quite unbelievable why a DCT would be necessary here at all.

Granted that the 1M was more connected to the driver with its M3 differential and manual gearbox. But as with most manufacturers these days, BMW is just keeping with the times in giving the M135i an auto box. Even Porsche has dumped the manual for a dual clutch in their track focused GT3!

If you can look past these small complaints, the M135i is really a brilliant hatch that you can quite happily enjoy on our roads. All it takes is a little tickle of the throttle to remind yourself why you put pen to paper for this hatch.

Credits: Story and Photos by Benjamin G. Kline