BMW 1 Series Coupe: the performance business coupe

SHARE

BMW 123d Coupe road test report

BMW 123d 2.0 M Sport Coupe

BMW 123d 2.0 M Sport Coupe

What is it?

Following the launch of 1 Series three- and five-door hatchbacks comes BMW’s latest: a 1 Series Coupe. There’s the choice of a Porsche Cayman beating 135i M Sport petrol model. Or two diesels: a 120d, and this twin turbo 123d version. It’s the world’s most powerful production four-cylinder diesel: there’s 204hp. Yet, astonishingly, it will return over 54mpg. Sounds like the perfect business car.

What’s hot?

  • Truly effortless pace from twin turbo engine
  • Yet easy to drive in town using all the low-down pulling power
  • Supple ride adds to composure
  • Quality of materials – feels special to drive
  • Fuel-saving EfficientDynamics gives 54.3mpg economy
  • All that performance – yet only an 18% tax banding

What’s not?

  • Initial braking performance too sharp
  • Foot rest fouls clutch foot
  • Tight to get into the rear two seats…
  • …and it remains tight in the rear for headroom

What you need to Know?

P11D Value: 26, 125
Monthly Rental*: 444
Tax Band when posted: 18%
Monthly BiK: 78.50 (20%)/£157 (40%)
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl twin turbo diesel
CO2 Emissions: 138g/km
Power/torque: 204hp/400Nm
Economy: 54.3mpg

Monthly rental courtesy of HSBC DriverQuote. Based on 36-month/30,000-mile contract hire agreement with maintenance.

Business Car Manager Road Test Rating

Not everyone will be convinced by the styling – but what’s without question is the 123d Coupe’s brilliant combination of outright pace, sports handling, and outstanding fuel economy – thanks to BMW’s fuel-saving EfficientDynamics programme. Add in low tax bills and the car makes a compelling sports coupe business car choice.

Business Motoring Award Winners 2025

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT