Overview
The BMW M135 is the brand’s entry point into M performance - essentially, the most affordable way to experience a taste of BMW M when buying a new car. Designed for everyday usability, and with impressive performance for fun on the weekend and seamless overtakes when required, the BMW M135 is only rivalled by the likes of the M340i when it comes to its suitability as an all-around performance package for daily driving.
Performance and Driving Experience
When BMW revealed the new F70 M135 xDrive, it aimed to refine and enhance the driving experience over its predecessor, the F40 M135i xDrive. While both models share a similar 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and front-biased all-wheel drive setup, the latest generation brings key updates, including a new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, mild hybrid technology, and revised chassis dynamics. But how do these changes translate to real-world performance? In this section, we’ll compare acceleration, handling, and driving engagement to see how the F70 stacks up against the F40.
Despite the slightly lower power output and subsequent 0.1 second increase in 0-62 mph time, the introduction of mild hybrid technology and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission in the F70 M135 xDrive brings several key advantages over the F40. The 48V mild hybrid system enhances efficiency by recuperating energy during braking and providing an electric boost during acceleration, improving fuel economy and throttle response. This results in smoother power delivery and reduced turbo lag, making the driving experience more refined. Additionally, the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission replaces the previous 8-speed torque converter, offering quicker and more precise gear shifts. This not only enhances performance but also improves responsiveness, particularly during spirited driving, while maintaining seamless operation in everyday conditions. Combined, these advancements contribute to a more efficient, engaging, and dynamic driving experience in the latest M135 xDrive.
The F70 M135 xDrive features xDrive all-wheel drive and a mechanical front differential lock, enhancing traction and stability. It incorporates a stiffer chassis, revised suspension geometry with increased caster and camber angles, and stiffer anti-roll bars for improved handling. The M Adaptive Suspension, standard on this model, is lowered by 8 mm and includes frequency-selective dampers that maintain dynamic performance without compromising comfort. Additionally, the rear axle bushings are 50% stiffer, further refining stability and responsiveness. These enhancements collectively deliver a more dynamic and engaging driving experience compared to its predecessor, striking a balance rarely found in hot hatches.
That’s not all, the F70 offers a unique new optional package known as the M Dynamic pack featuring lightweight components and an upgraded chassis. It includes stronger piston rods, aluminium anti-roll bars, and extra underfloor bracing for improved steering and more responsive handling. The package also adds M Compound brakes, M forged wheels, and 19-inch sport tyres (track tyres available) for reduced weight and more consistent stopping power when pushing the car to its limits.
These upgrades are essential for those looking to maximise the car’s performance potential, improving lap times on track and delivering even more fun when driving on the road. The package also features M High-gloss Shadowline trim and M Sport seats with integral headrests and an illuminated M logo.
Our experience with the F70 M135 demonstrated that this car is an improvement over the F40 in almost every sense. The F40 built brilliant foundations from which the F70 now thrives, thanks to its many refinements. The F40 is still an incredible choice thanks to its marginally higher power output – which gives it a slight edge when it comes to straight line performance.
Exterior Design and Aesthetics
Following in the footsteps of the F40, the F70 M135 continues BMW’s bold design trend. Both the rear and side profile of each model share many similarities, with the most noticeable changes here being the F70’s quad exhaust tail pipes, new taillight design and alloy wheel options. You now have a choice of three different 19” alloy wheels in addition to the 18” wheels that come as standard.
The front end is where they’re most different – the F40 retaining a more familiar front grille and headlight design, while the F70 tweaks the formula. Both cars are rather understated in their base form – not looking drastically different to the regular 1 Series in M Sport trim. However, we recommend adding M Performance Parts, which truly make these cars stand out – as seen in the imagery throughout this article. If the full kit isn’t to your taste, then individual parts such as the popular rear spoiler can be purchased and installed at Dick Lovett BMW.
The F70 also introduces a new colour palette, including the wonderful Thundernight purple and Fire Red. Individual colours are available on both models, BMW’s premium catalogue of paint colours designed for the ultimate enthusiast or those looking to be that little bit different.
Technology and Interior Design
Technology is one of the more significant differences between these two generations of BMW M Performance hatchbacks. At the core of the cars’ technology suite is their iDrive operating system – this not only influences each vehicle's software but also the hardware, or in simpler terms the onboard screens that you use to operate the vehicle’s climate control, navigation, media, and many other features.
The F40 utilises the iDrive 7 system, which features more physical buttons, an iDrive controller dial, a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The F40 has a more traditional setup, with a gear lever, whereas the F70 has a toggle-style gear selector.
The F70 moves towards a cleaner, more minimalistic interior with fewer buttons, redesigned air vents, and an updated centre console. The F70’s iDrive system is two versions ahead – featuring an upgraded iDrive 9 system with a Curved Display (10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch touchscreen). This system brings an abundance of upgrades, from stunning new visuals and enhanced screen quality to additional applications and customisation options. Standard equipment is also increased – Parking Assistant, Driving Assistant, M Adaptive Suspension, and Harmon Kardon sound system are also standard on the F70 – some of the most desirable features available.
Both models are class-leading when it comes to their cabins, but we recognise the new interior of the F70 M135 to be a true step up – it feels like a more special place to spend your time. This is amplified by its new steering wheel, complete with a red centre marker and satisfying gear shift paddles similar to those found in flagship M models like the new M5. The same can be said about its phenomenal new M Sport seats, which are among the best seats we’ve experienced in any BMW – stylish, incredibly supportive, and very comfortable on long drives.
Verdict
- Photos courtesy of Without Limits Media
Although not as raucous as BMW hot hatchbacks of previous years, both the F40 M135i xDrive and F70 M135 xDrive are impressively versatile performance cars that provide everyday driving thrills while remaining practical enough for many people. The F70 is undeniably a worthy successor.
