CocoPops
Honorary ///Member
AutoExpress Review:
Verdict
On paper, our dynamic duo are evenly matched. As our spec sheet shows, there’s nothing between them in terms of power, performance and kit.
Yet in the final reckoning the BMW takes a convincing win. Its brilliant engine delivers breathtaking performance, while the beautifully balanced chassis makes it huge fun to hustle along twisting back roads. But it’s the M135i’s ability to mix sharp driving dynamics with everyday usability that really impresses. From its comfortable and well appointed cabin to its excellent refinement and decent ride, the BMW can be every bit as sensible as a 1 Series diesel, while in five-door guise it’s reasonably practical, too.
Go for the manual gearbox and it’s not that much more expensive to buy – although the eight-speed automatic is so good that it’s worth the extra outlay. Running costs with either transmission will be lower than for its rival here.
The Subaru shouldn’t be overlooked, though. When you’re in the mood it’s great fun to drive, plus the recent price cut makes it something of a bargain. And when the weather turns nasty, there are few performance cars that are as reassuring from behind the wheel.
However, on this occasion the WRX STi is simply outclassed by the brilliant BMW.
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/bmw/1-series/61426/bmw-m135i-vs-subaru-wrx-sti-320r
Verdict
On paper, our dynamic duo are evenly matched. As our spec sheet shows, there’s nothing between them in terms of power, performance and kit.
Yet in the final reckoning the BMW takes a convincing win. Its brilliant engine delivers breathtaking performance, while the beautifully balanced chassis makes it huge fun to hustle along twisting back roads. But it’s the M135i’s ability to mix sharp driving dynamics with everyday usability that really impresses. From its comfortable and well appointed cabin to its excellent refinement and decent ride, the BMW can be every bit as sensible as a 1 Series diesel, while in five-door guise it’s reasonably practical, too.
Go for the manual gearbox and it’s not that much more expensive to buy – although the eight-speed automatic is so good that it’s worth the extra outlay. Running costs with either transmission will be lower than for its rival here.
The Subaru shouldn’t be overlooked, though. When you’re in the mood it’s great fun to drive, plus the recent price cut makes it something of a bargain. And when the weather turns nasty, there are few performance cars that are as reassuring from behind the wheel.
However, on this occasion the WRX STi is simply outclassed by the brilliant BMW.
http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/bmw/1-series/61426/bmw-m135i-vs-subaru-wrx-sti-320r
don't like 1-series in general :mmm: 
