BMW M140i 2016 Review

BMW M140i


Quick Spin

What’s it all about?
BMW’s updated 1 Series range hits peak appeal – and price – with the new M140i.

It’s the performance hero of BMWs 1 Series line-up, which offers a mix of engines (three, four and six-cylinder), automatic and manual transmissions and varying degrees of spirited driving.

The updated 3.0 litre, six-cylinder turbo-petrol engine brings more power and greater efficiency than its predecessor, the M135i.

Unlike the rest of the updated 1 Series line-up, the M140i is more costly. It starts at $64,900 (plus ORCs), which represents around $2k premium on its predecessor, but you do get more – more performance, to be specific.

Which, in this guise, is most of what it’s all about. Scoff as you may, but, in most cases, progress costs. There are many, many pricey options to enhance your M140i, and ours gains metallic paintwork ($1485) and a glass sunroof ($2600), for total of $68,985 (plus ORCs).

You walk away with a three-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and BMW’s conditioned-based service schedule.

Why should I buy it?
The updated 3.0-litre engine extracts an additional 10kW and 50Nm, which shifts the M140i’s output to a tidy 250kW and 500Nm; and claims to hit 100km/h in just 4.8sec.
The numbers alone are enticing. Delivered in a compact, rear-wheel-drive package, it’s all about the fun behind the wheel. And there’s plenty to be had. The ride is a little firm, but not as hard as, say, Merc’s rival A 45 AMG.

You’ll never tire of the smooth six-speed manual (a no cost option), which allows for a surprisingly docile low speed drive around the suburbs – it’s a realistic proposition as an every day car – not unlike Audi’s S3.

Which brings us to its value proposition – where, again, it stands on similar grounds to its German rivals. Some nice inclusions at this ‘M’ level are Adaptive M suspension, M Sport brakes, M leather steering wheel and four-mode driver-select settings. Keyless entry, a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system, upgraded sat nav and leather trim sport seats are also standard.

Beware the pricey options!

When is it available in Australia?
The M 140i is available now, as is the entire updated 1 Series range.

Who will it appeal to?
It’s conservative styling, coupled with potent performance makes the M140i somewhat of a quiet achiever – until you plant your foot and the exhaust note blows your cover.

This stealth-like character is key to this car’s appeal. But everyday practicalities are not completely forgotten. The five-door hatch can accommodate five passengers, but four is a happier scenario (at least for second-row occupants). If second-row passengers are few and far between, the M 140i is more than fit for purpose.

A 360-litre boot will accommodate a well-catered holiday load, while its 60:40 split-fold seats make way for a greater load (1200 litres) – but leave the horse-float at home.

Where does it fit?
Technically, the BMW 1 Series range belongs in the Small car segment over $40k. It’s unfair to pigeon hole the BMW M140i is such a way, however, as it wears many potential hats.

It’s easier to rule out some categories. It’s a pricey, potent performance vehicle that is tight on second-row passenger space, so it’s an unlikely first car or family car. It’s power and dynamics are a highlight and refinement top notch, so appeal will be broad – but suitability somewhat lower.

For people with the occasional second-row passengers, it’s a brilliant option. It’s a story shared with its obvious rivals previously mentioned, though none are bought for their versatility or everyday practicality... Keep some perspective on this one.

So, what do we think?
If you can justify this type of vehicle in your garage line-up, luck is on your side. The M 140i is a thrilling ride, impeccably finished and a whole lot of fun.
Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Definitely.

2016 BMW M140i pricing and specifications:
Price: $64,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 250kW/500Nm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Fuel: 7.8L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 179g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

Also consider:
>> Audi S3 Sportback (from $61,100, plus ORCs)
>> Mercedes-Benz AMG A45 (from $75,700plus ORCs)
>> BMW M240i (from $74,900 plus ORCs)

Related reading:

>> BMW 240i Video Review
>> Ford Focus RS v Mercedes-AMG A 45 v Audi RS 3 2016 Comparison