Owner reviews for the BMW 135
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Overall rating 4/5The BMW 135 is a compact hatchback that packs impressive performance into a practical package. It's a car that blends punchy power with agility and a high-quality interior.
London
London
Mitcham
AA finance available
London
Enfield
Borehamwood
Gillingham
Hook
Hook
Cambridge
Bury St. Edmunds
Ipswich
No edits, no filters—just real feedback from verified vehicle owners to help you make confident decisions.
Overall rating 4/5The BMW 135 sits near the top of the 1-Series range and combines family-friendly practicality with genuine hot-hatch excitement. It has evolved from rear-wheel drive and 6-cylinder engines (pre-2019) to an efficient, powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder with all-wheel drive (from 2019), offering more space and stability in newer models while older ones appeal to enthusiasts for characterful performance. Against rivals like the Audi S3, Mercedes-AMG A35 and Volkswagen Golf R, the BMW 135 stands out with well-balanced handling, premium feel, high-quality materials, supportive seats, smart digital displays, and BMW’s excellent iDrive infotainment system.
All newer BMW 135 models come with a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, traffic-sign recognition and speed-limit assist. Euro NCAP awarded the 1 Series a full five stars for safety. Options like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on many cars.
Earlier BMW M135i models (up to 2019) use a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine and rear-wheel drive, offering exciting performance with a sporty feel. From 2019 onwards, the M135i was fitted with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo and all-wheel xDrive system. While the later models are still quick, they're more efficient and practical for everyday use.
Depending on the exact model, you’ll find a 10.3-inch digital display, high-resolution touchscreen or rotary-controlled iDrive system. There's also DAB radio, Bluetooth, sat-nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual-zone climate control, sports seats, cruise control and parking sensors are usually standard, with options for upgraded audio and digital instrument clusters.
Fuel consumption varies by generation. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder M135i returns around 32–35mpg combined. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder M135i xDrive typically achieves 35–39mpg on official tests, making it a bit more wallet-friendly for those with long commutes.
Make sure to check for a full service history, especially for regular oil changes and recall work. Listen for unusual noises from the engine or drivetrain, ensure all electronics and infotainment work and check tyres and brakes for wear. For total peace of mind, consider getting The AA Vehicle Inspection before you buy.
The BMW 135 is generally dependable, especially the newer models, and BMW ranks ahead of many premium rivals for reliability in recent surveys. As with any performance car featuring complex tech, regular servicing is essential. Some earlier models may face minor issues but nothing unusual for a hot hatch of this era.