- Doors and Seats
5 doors, 5 seats
- Engine
3.0T, 6 cyl.
- Engine Power
250kW, 500Nm
- Fuel
Petrol (95) 7.1L/100KM
- Manufacturer
RWD
- Transmission
Auto
- Warranty
3 Yr, Unltd KMs
- Ancap Safety
NA
2018 BMW M140i: owner review
I rarely buy new. Usually I avoid some depreciation by getting a demo or used model, but this car I got with zero kilometres.
Like all new purchases, the true nature becomes dominant after the initial love affair of the first six weeks starts to dull.
For me it comes down to the engine and gearbox combination, and in this BMW they have got it right. It's a stunning turbo 6, which makes a great noise and offers huge power in a light, small hatch.
The result is that, after 11 months of ownership, there is still a smile to be had on the most ordinary trips.
It's a car that's always alive in my hands, quick to react without being twitchy or nervous. It can dart into gaps and spaces, as well as muscle its way to the front of traffic. I frequently notice how it can feel like a bigger car in the way it smoothly cruises around Sydney's mixed street surfaces. Combining these characteristics is an achievement.
Inside I am happy to say this car has just enough tech features to stay useful. The driving experience is rewarding, and better than most other cars I have owned. I live in the city and its smaller size is a real asset, along with the turning circle afforded by rear wheel drive. Most of all I have never tired of the wonderful 6-cylinder engine; smooth and powerful and properly fast, linked to a super slick 8-speed that never seems to be in the wrong gear.
The front two seats are comfortable and supportive, and cabin space is more than enough. The rear seat is a bench, which is okay for smaller types and short trips, but not great. The build quality in my BMW is okay; a few rattles from the rear door and trunk need to addressed at the first service.
Generally the grip, brakes, and steering feel are very good. The tyres are a bit noisy and along with the sports exhaust 'drone' can be a slight negative on the highway, but I have owned other German cars that cost twice as much as this, and they are certainly not twice as good.
I still think this car is a bargain - a 9 out of 10 in the most important departments.
I still enjoy it, and highly recommend it.
Overall: 8.6
Performance and Economy: 9.0
Cabin Space and Comfort: 8.5
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Technology and Connectivity: 8.0
Price and Features: 9.0
Ride and Handeling: 8.5
No pictures were supplied for this review so our own photos were used