A pleasant surprise

If ever there was an embodiment of the old adage ‘a wolf in sheep’s clothing, the BMW M135i is it.

As proven by my dating track record, looks aren’t everything (thankfully) and although this model doesn’t get my vote for ‘best looking car ever made’, it definitely gets points for agility, efficiency and performance.

This four-seater with coupe proportions has a distinctive look but is still unmistakably BMW and fortunately boasts several design features of a BMW M car.

While the exterior design may be rather different from the majority of the range, once you slip inside, you instantly feel at home. It’s a bit like bumping into an old friend you haven’t seen in years who looks different than you remember but as soon as you start talking, the importance of appearance diminishes.

Contrary to popular belief, I’m not mad, so I didn’t talk to the car, but I could have talked to anyone on my contact list once I synced my mobile up the Bluetooth connection.

The interior is quintessentially BMW, stitched red and black leather, fine finishes, well laid-out instrumentation, memory seats and the infamous iDrive infotainment system are all common place.
 
Tap the push button start and you’re ready to go, and go you do! Under the bonnet is a 6-cylinder 340bhp engine with M TwinPower Turbo and direct injection, which ensures this model hurtles along with conviction.

With chassis technology derived directly from motor racing, a power-to-weight ratio reduced to 4.4 kilograms per bhp and optimised aerodynamic components, a thrilling drive is on the cards.

I cruised along the Sitra Highway, carefully navigating my way around the traffic until I found a great open stretch to open up the throttle. With an almighty roar I took off like a bolt and that was even before I remembered there are two sports modes to choose from.

I’ve driven a number of BMW cars over the years, I’m not bragging, well, maybe a little, but that’s not the point. The point is, as beautiful as larger cars are, they simply are not as nimble and that is where this model shines.

The first ever BMW M model in the compact segment combines the driving properties of a high-performance sports car with the unlimited functionality of a BMW 1 Series coupe.

It sits low to the ground, which gives extra stability and a welcome sense of confidence in safety while you’re flinging it around a corner. Its standard safety features include front, pelvis and side curtain head airbags, three-point automatic seatbelts for all seats with belt force limiters and belt tensioners at the front.

All-in-all, this is a car you have to drive to truly appreciate.

Prices start from BD19,995. For details, call Euro Motors on 17750750.