Overview
The M135 sits at the entry point of BMW’s M Performance range—an accessible way into the world of BMW M without stepping up to something like the M2 or M3. It’s built for daily usability, quick weekend blasts, and confident overtakes, making it one of the best all-rounders in the lineup alongside the highly regarded M340i.
Performance & Driving Experience
When the F70 M135 xDrive was revealed, BMW positioned it as a more polished and focused evolution of the F40 M135i xDrive. While both use a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and a front-biased AWD system, the F70 introduces a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, mild hybrid technology, and a heavily reworked chassis.
Headline Figures
| Power | 306 hp / 450 Nm | 300 hp / 400 Nm |
| 0–62 mph | 4.8 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
Although the newer model drops slightly in power, the addition of a 48V mild hybrid system makes the drivetrain more responsive and more efficient. Energy recuperation during braking and electric boost under acceleration reduce lag and smooth out power delivery.
The switch from an 8-speed torque-converter automatic to a 7-speed DCT also makes a noticeable difference: shifts are quicker, cleaner, and far more engaging in spirited driving, while still remaining smooth around town.
Chassis & Handling
The F70 brings substantial dynamic improvements:
- Revised suspension geometry with increased caster and camber
- Stiffer anti-roll bars
- A body lowered by 8 mm thanks to standard M Adaptive Suspension
- Frequency-selective dampers
- Rear axle bushings stiffened by 50%
- Standard mechanical front differential lock
These upgrades make the F70 notably more composed and more willing to rotate through corners, closing the gap between an all-wheel-drive hatch and the playful feel enthusiasts expect from BMW.
M Dynamic Pack
For those chasing maximum capability, the optional M Dynamic Pack adds:
- Lightweight aluminium anti-roll bars
- Stronger piston rods
- Additional underbody bracing
- M Compound brakes
- Forged M wheels
- High-performance tyres
- M Sport seats with integrated headrests and illuminated M logo
- M High-gloss Shadowline detailing
This transforms the F70 into a genuinely serious performance hatch, reducing weight, improving grip, and giving more consistent braking under track use.
Overall: the F40 laid solid groundwork, but the F70 sharpens almost every aspect—aside from straight-line pace, where the F40’s extra power gives it a marginal edge.
Exterior Design
Following the F40’s design language, the new F70 continues BMW’s bold hatchback styling but with some clear distinctions.
Key differences include:
- Quad exhaust tips on the F70
- Fresh taillight design
- New wheel choices, including three different 19-inch options
- Updated, more aggressive front end
Both models look relatively subtle in their standard form, closely resembling the regular 1 Series in M Sport trim. However, adding M Performance Parts—such as the rear spoiler shown in the article’s imagery—significantly boosts road presence.
The F70 also introduces new colours such as Thundernight Purple and Fire Red, and both generations can be ordered with BMW Individual paints for added exclusivity.
Interior & Technology
Technology is one of the most noticeable areas where the F70 moves ahead.
F40 Interior Highlights
- iDrive 7
- More physical buttons
- Traditional gear lever
- 10.25-inch touchscreen
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
This setup feels familiar and intuitive, with the much-loved iDrive rotary controller still in place.
F70 Interior Highlights
- iDrive 9 (two generations newer)
- 10.25-inch instrument display + 10.7-inch touchscreen Curved Display
- Sleeker, more minimalistic layout
- Toggle-style gear selector
- Standard Parking Assistant
- Standard Driving Assistant
- Standard Harman Kardon sound
- Standard M Adaptive Suspension
The interior of the F70 feels more upmarket and distinctly “M”—especially with its new steering wheel featuring a red centre marker, improved shift paddles, and outstanding M Sport seats that offer both comfort and impressive lateral support.
Verdict
Both the F40 M135i xDrive and F70 M135 xDrive deliver an excellent blend of performance, practicality, and year-round usability. While neither is as wild as hot hatches from BMW’s past, they excel as everyday performance cars.
- Choose the F40 if you want fantastic value in the Approved Used market—there are many great examples available from 2019–2024.
- Choose the F70 if you want the most advanced tech, sharper handling, and BMW’s latest interpretation of the performance hatchback.
The F70 is unquestionably the more complete car, building on the strengths of the F40 and elevating them across the board.
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Areas served
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