The modern ancestry test: 2012 BMW M135i vs 2025 BMW M135
The BMW 1 Series was a fan favourite for its rear-wheel-drive configuration. The latest iterations no longer offer this setup. So are they really better than their early predecessors? We pit the 2012 BMW M135i (F20) against the latest 2025 BMW M135 (F70) to find out.
BMW's hottest hatchback has undergone one of the most controversial transformations in the performance car world. The rear-wheel-drive, six-cylinder M135i (F20) earned a cult following for its unique layout, while the latest front-biased all-wheel-drive M135 (F70) embraces modern efficiency and technology.
Related: Volkswagen Golf R vs Audi S3 vs BMW M135i: Here's our winner
But before we get into the details, remember you can sell your car quickly and easily on our website. Take advantage of our Artificial Intelligence tools and search for new or used BMW 1 Series models on AutoTrader here.
BMW M135i vs BMW M135 performance comparison
| Specification | BMW M135i (F20) | BMW M135 (F70) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six | 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Capacity | 2 979 cc | 1 998 cc |
| Power | 240 kW | 233 kW |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Transmission | 8-speed Steptronic | 7-speed dual-clutch |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | xDrive AWD |
| 0–100 km/h | 5.1 sec | 4.9 sec |
Downsizing done properly
Although the F70 loses 7 kW and 50 Nm, improved traction and gearbox technology help it reach 100 km/h more quickly than its larger-engined predecessor. The biggest philosophical shift is the engine itself. The F20's silky turbocharged straight-six became one of BMW's greatest modern performance engines, delivering effortless power and rear-wheel-drive dynamics. The F70 instead relies on a highly developed four-cylinder engine driving all four wheels.
While enthusiasts may miss the character of six cylinders, outright performance has improved. Launch control, a quicker dual-clutch transmission and xDrive traction allow the new M135 to deploy its power far more effectively than the rear-driven F20 could. For everyday South African roads, particularly in wet weather, the additional traction provides a measurable advantage.
Will the M135 become a cult classic?
The F20 remains highly desirable among enthusiasts because of its engine layout and analogue driving experience. The F70 targets a different buyer, someone seeking maximum performance with greater refinement, improved technology and everyday usability. Although the emotional appeal differs, BMW has still managed to build a quicker hatchback despite using a smaller engine.
