Owner reviews for the BMW 125
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4/5Looking for a used BMW 125? This sporty hatchback delivers sharp handling with a premium feel.
London
Barking
Croydon
AA finance available
Romford
Waltham Abbey
Windsor
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4/5If you want practicality with a touch of excitement, look no further than the BMW 125. It combines quality materials, smart design and strong performance. There have been a few generations of this car, but it has retained its fun driving spirit throughout. The second generation (from 2011) sharpened the drive, boosted cabin space and modernised infotainment, so opt for later models if those features are a must for your lifestyle. The 125 rivals sporty versions of the Audi A3 or VW Golf, though it often feels more rewarding behind the wheel. It can lag behind in terms of rear space and boot size, but is smooth to drive on motorways and comes with a strong reliability record.
Every BMW 125 is well-kitted for safety. Standard features include electronic stability control, multiple airbags, and ISOFIX mounts. Higher trims or later models may offer lane departure warning, adaptive headlights, and advanced emergency braking.
Across generations, the 125 badge has appeared on diesel (125d) and petrol (125i) models. The 125d uses a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel, while the 125i offers a 2.0-litre turbo petrol. Both are punchy options.
BMW’s iDrive system is a highlight – it's found on most 125s and has a clear display, rotary controller and smartphone links. Most trims add air conditioning and sat-nav, with M Sport models featuring dual-zone climate control.
The 125d diesel is notably frugal, with official figures being up to 58.9mpg. The 125i petrol manages around 42.8mpg with considerate driving. Real-world numbers will depend on the car's spec and your driving style.
Look for a full service history and evidence of recall work, and check for warning lights on the dash. It's important to listen for knocks or vibrations from the drivetrain (especially on diesels). For extra peace of mind, consider booking The AA Vehicle Inspection service for a comprehensive report of your chosen used car within 24 hours.
The BMW 125 enjoys a strong reliability reputation, provided it’s maintained as recommended. Just be aware of issues like timing chain wear on early diesels, electrical gremlins and suspension wear on high-mileage cars.