In fact, the more modest 118d is a higher precision tool, and rides with slightly more suppleness besides, though both are pretty good. This car is a great all-rounder, serving big car refinement, brisk performance, strong economy and crisp handling in quite a satisfying mix. Passengers will enjoy the extra room, a more finely crafted (if rather busy) interior design that presents classy galvanised steel knobs and door handles, a bigger, more interactive infotainment screen and a soothing level of well insulated calm, these advantages common to both models.
For the most part, then, this is a decisively better car, especially in mainstream form. Keen drivers will regret the outgoing M140i’s passing, but the new M135i is undeniably an entertainer.
Stat attack: BMW M135i xDrive
Price: £36,430
Engines: 2.0 four-cylinder turbo petrol
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive
Power/torque: 306bhp @ 4,500-6,250rpm/450Nm (333lb ft) @ 1,750-5,000rpm
0-62mph: 4.8 seconds
Top speed: 155mph
Combined economy: 41.5mpg
Kerb weight: 1,600kg