The 2024 BMW M135 has received a facelift, refining its looks and performance to enhance its appeal as one of the most desirable compact sports hatchbacks on the market. With more aggressive styling, updated tech, and a comfortable yet thrilling driving experience, it’s a car that can satisfy both enthusiasts and those seeking a daily driver. In this review, we’ll explore the M135’s exterior design, interior quality, tech features, performance, and driving experience to see how it fares against the competition.
Exterior: A Stronger, More Dynamic Presence
The facelifted M135 makes a bold statement with a more aggressive and dynamic exterior, staying true to BMW’s sporty heritage while introducing some modern touches that make it stand out even more on the road.
Exterior Notable Features:
Updated Kidney Grille: The grille is noticeably larger and more assertive, commanding attention from the front. This change adds an aggressive tone to the car’s overall look, making it appear more athletic.
Sharper, Sleeker Design: The front bumper, LED headlights, and sleek lines enhance the car’s aerodynamic efficiency, creating a refined yet dynamic silhouette.
Sporty Rear Design: The rear end is defined by sharp lines, new tail lights, and dual exhaust outlets, giving the M135 a purposeful and sporty stance.
New Colour Palette: The facelift brings with it several fresh colours, allowing buyers to personalise their M135 to suit their tastes.
BMW has made a noticeable improvement to the M135’s exterior design, refining its already sporty profile to make it even more appealing.
Interior: Premium Comfort Meets Sporty Luxury
Inside, the M135 feels incredibly well-built, with premium materials and attention to detail that elevate the driving experience. The cabin combines a luxurious atmosphere with a sense of sportiness, making it clear that this is a BMW.
Interior Key Features:
Luxurious Materials: The cabin is lined with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery, and premium plastics, creating a high-end feel.
Comfortable Seating: The seats are designed for long journeys, offering excellent support and comfort without compromising on sporty aesthetics.
Spacious and Practical: Despite its compact size, the M135 offers plenty of room for both the driver and passengers, with enough space for adults in the back.
M-Specific Touches: Subtle M branding and carbon fibre trims remind you that you’re driving a performance-focused model, blending luxury with performance flair.
Whether you’re commuting daily or embarking on a longer trip, the M135’s interior provides a comfortable, refined environment that’s both practical and stylish.
Infotainment: Connected but Somewhat Fiddly
BMW’s infotainment system in the M135 has been upgraded to keep pace with modern technology, offering a smooth and intuitive experience. However, it’s not without a few drawbacks.
Infotainment Notable Features:
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Seamless integration with your phone allows for easy access to music, maps, and apps on the move.
Satellite Navigation: BMW’s built-in sat-nav system is reliable and easy to use, with real-time traffic information helping you avoid delays.
App Integration: You can integrate various apps with the system, making it more versatile and connected.
Climate Control Criticism:
Climate Control on the Menu Screen: One downside to the otherwise impressive system is that climate control settings are located on the touchscreen menu, which can be a bit fiddly and distracting while driving. This is not ideal when you need to adjust the temperature quickly while on the move.
Despite this flaw, the M135’s infotainment system provides ample tech and connectivity options, offering a generally user-friendly interface for a premium driving experience.
Performance: Efficient Yet Missing the Spark of the Previous Model
Under the bonnet, the M135 features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that strikes a solid balance between performance and efficiency. While it’s nippy and responsive, it feels a bit less thrilling than the more powerful models in BMW’s history.
Key Performance Highlights:
Turbocharged Engine: The 2.0-litre engine provides a solid 300 horsepower, offering plenty of punch when you need it. It accelerates smoothly and rapidly, making it feel quick off the line.
Fuel Efficiency: One of the key improvements with this model is its fuel efficiency. It performs well in city and motorway conditions, making it a practical choice for those who want the performance without high running costs.
Less Raw Power: While still lively, the engine lacks some of the visceral excitement that previous M135 models provided, particularly at higher revs.
For those seeking a balance between sporty driving and everyday practicality, the M135’s engine is an excellent choice. However, enthusiasts used to the raw power of older models might feel it falls just short of their expectations.
Driving Experience: Comfortable, Responsive, and Fuel Efficient
Our test drive of the M135 took us from Cocoon Vehicles’ base in Belper, through the picturesque Peak District, across to Mosborough Hall, and down the M1 to Junction 28. The M135 impressed us with its comfort, handling, and efficiency throughout the journey.
Driving Impressions:
Comfortable Ride: The suspension is firm enough to keep the car composed on twisty roads, but it’s not overly stiff. It absorbs bumps well, ensuring a comfortable ride whether you’re on winding country lanes or cruising on the motorway.
Excellent Fuel Economy: Despite its sporty nature, the M135 delivered impressive fuel economy on our journey, proving it can be both fun and efficient.
Auto Double Clutch Gearbox: The M135’s dual-clutch gearbox is quick and responsive, delivering fast shifts and instant acceleration. It’s particularly noticeable during overtaking or when you put your foot down for a burst of speed.
The M135 proves to be a comfortable, enjoyable car to drive, offering the ideal blend of performance, efficiency, and everyday practicality. Whether it’s handling mountain roads or maintaining highway cruising comfort, the M135 keeps up with ease.
Flexible Car Subscription with Cocoon Vehicles
The 2024 BMW M135 is available through Cocoon Vehicles’ Flexible Car Subscription program. This flexible option is perfect for both personal and business customers, allowing you to drive a premium car with all the benefits of ownership but without the long-term commitment.
Program Highlights:
Maintenance Included: No need to worry about servicing; it’s all taken care of.
Breakdown Assistance & Road Tax: Peace of mind with breakdown support and road tax covered.
Only Pay for Fuel and Insurance: You only need to take care of fueling the car and arranging car subscription insurance, with everything else included in the subscription.
For those looking to drive a high-performance car like the BMW M135 without the commitment of ownership, this subscription service offers a fantastic alternative.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for the Modern Driver
The 2024 BMW M135 combines sharp design, impressive tech features, and solid performance in a compact package. While it might not deliver the raw excitement of earlier models, it’s still a fun and comfortable car that’s well-suited for everyday driving. Whether you’re looking for a luxury car for your daily commute or a spirited weekend driver, the M135 delivers a well-rounded package.
If you want to drive the BMW M135 without the hassle of ownership, check out the Flexible Car Subscription program at Cocoon Vehicles—the perfect solution for modern car buyers.
For more information, visit Cocoon Vehicles.
Disclaimer
Cocoon Vehicles is owned and perated by the owners of the Gadget Geek Boy website, cars are lent on the basis of evaluation. All reviews are of our honest and upfront opinion.
