2014 BMW M135i PERFORMANCE

This BMW M135i is a modern performance hero, and one of the most impressive and engaging hot hatches by any measure. It is powered by the 315bhp 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six, with rear-wheel drive via the six-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 58,639 miles from new.

First registered in April 2014, the clear HPI report shows just one previous registered keeper on the log book. It has evidently been put to use as an exciting daily driver, and yet it remains in superb condition throughout. The seller has owned the car for the last six months, and has covered some 2,500 miles in that time.

The bodywork is in great shape, with no dents or damage to any of the panels, and sound shut lines all around the car. There is the odd chip on the front bumper and nose, but in general the Alpine White paint looks great, with a smooth and even finish. Its light lenses and window glasses are free of chips and cracks, and the other body trims are in excellent condition. The car rides on the original 18-inch alloys, which have minor kerbing on the front wheels and some blemishes on the centre caps, but which are otherwise in very good order.

In the cabin, there is red Dakota leather upholstery on the seats, with matching accents on the door panels. The leather is undamaged, and has very little wear to speak of. Complementing the leather are textured aluminium-look trim panels. Ahead of the driver is a three-spoke M leather steering wheel, and this particular car has the six-speed manual gearbox for optimal driver involvement. Factory-fitted equipment includes climate control, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and the BMW Professional radio, CD player and audio system.

Its last MOT test was on 5 March 2020 at 58,639 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories whatsoever. The car is shod in four matching Uniroyal Rainsport 3 tyres; the rears being new.

The seller reports that this M135i has comprehensive BMW main dealer service history, and that the next visit is not due for another 9,000 miles. Accompanying the car are all of the original books and literature, as well as the supplied accessories such as tools.

Top Gear magazine’s review of the M135i concluded: “Although it may not quite say so, this is a true M car. You can feel the magic is there. It’s not quite as hard-edged as the brilliant old 1-Series M Coupe, but it’s close.”

This BMW M135i is a superb example of a celebrated rear-wheel-drive hot hatch. With its three-door body style and manual gearbox, it is arguably the most driver-focused version of the car, and it remains original and unmodified. More than capable of fulfilling the dual roles of high-performance road car and versatile daily driver, this is a reliable and exciting hot hatch that is also great value.