By: Charles Molefe.
BMW South Africa has officially unveiled the next generation of its compact executive lineup, introducing the all-new 1 Series (F70) and 2 Series Gran Coupé (F74) to local roads. With a focus on design evolution, cutting-edge technology, and refined driving dynamics, the range includes the 118i, M135 xDrive, 218i, and the flagship M235 xDrive — each one tailored to meet a distinct lifestyle and performance expectation.
I recently had the opportunity to experience all four models on launch, and here’s how they each measured up.
BMW 118i – Confident, Capable, and Surprisingly Premium
The 118i is the entry point into the new BMW range, but there’s nothing “entry-level” about the experience. Powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 115kW and 230Nm, this compact hatch strikes a fine balance between efficiency and everyday liveliness. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the shifts are intuitive and responsive, whether navigating tight urban streets or open highway stretches.
BMW’s latest Operating System 9 and the new curved dual-screen setup elevate the interior, while improved cabin insulation and material quality add to a noticeably more premium feel. The ride is composed, and the steering — though light — remains direct and engaging. This is a solid all-rounder that’s easy to live with, yet stylish enough to stand out in any office parking lot.
BMW M135 xDrive – Understated Power Meets All-Weather Confidence
For enthusiasts seeking more urgency behind the wheel, the M135 xDrive delivers. Now producing 233kW and 400Nm from its 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, this hot hatch launches from 0–100km/h in a brisk 4.9 seconds. The xDrive system ensures assured grip and traction, even when driven enthusiastically.
The updated chassis tuning makes it more forgiving over rougher surfaces without diluting the M character. What’s most notable is how mature the new M135 feels — it’s fast, sure-footed, and more refined than its predecessor. A proper daily performance vehicle that doesn’t demand sacrifices in comfort.
BMW 218i Gran Coupé – Stylish Simplicity with a Business Edge
Sharing its engine and underpinnings with the 118i, the 218i Gran Coupé brings a more elegant, four-door fastback silhouette to the lineup. With the same power output, its driving experience is familiar, composed, efficient, and well-suited to young professionals or executives looking for a stylish yet understated vehicle.
Inside, it benefits from the same digital architecture and driver-focused layout, while boot space and rear legroom improve usability. The Gran Coupé shape gives it a presence that feels more premium than its dimensions might suggest. For those wanting the BMW badge without the need for outright performance, the 218i is a smart, sophisticated option.
BMW M235 xDrive – Executive Performance with Daily Usability
The flagship M235 xDrive stands tall as the performance hero of the range. It uses the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder powerplant found in the M135 xDrive but wraps it in a sleeker Gran Coupé body. With a 0–100km/h time of 4.9 seconds and xDrive keeping things tidy under pressure, this is a car that thrills with control and purpose.
Its character is more composed than explosive, which, for many buyers, is a selling point. The ride quality is firm but never jarring, the handling sharp, and the interior ambience aligns well with its premium price tag. At just over R1 million, it competes confidently against the likes of the Mercedes-AMG CLA35 and Audi S3 Sedan.
Verdict.
BMW’s latest refresh of the 1 and 2 Series lineup proves they haven’t lost touch with what the people want — premium feel, real-world performance, and standout design. The 118i and 218i are perfect for young professionals looking to enter the Bavarian family, while the M135 and M235 are for those who live a little louder but still want everyday drivability.
The tech upgrades, revised looks, and balanced drivetrains mean BMW’s compact range is more relevant than ever in South Africa. Whether you’re in the concrete jungle or stretching its legs on the open road, each of these models offers a unique blend of performance and personality — and that’s what makes them worth talking about.
What I Appreciated:
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Confident, well-rounded performance across the range
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Sporty, modern design with clear family DNA
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Balanced ride and handling characteristics, even in the M variants
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Seamless integration of BMW’s latest infotainment and driver interface tech
What Could Be Improved:
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The exhaust tone, particularly in the M models, lacks emotional resonance
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BMW’s “IconicSounds” synthesised audio feels overly manufactured at times.
Verdict.
With this latest refresh, BMW has strengthened its compact offering with models that feel more polished, more digitally advanced, and more capable than ever. The 118i and 218i will resonate with buyers looking for understated luxury and everyday ease, while the M135 and M235 strike a fine balance between performance and practicality.
If this lineup is any indication, BMW continues to understand what modern drivers want — and delivers it with trademark precision.
Gottagged Rating:
8.5 / 10