Ultimately, however, it is the manner in which the 125d goes that brings out the smiles. BMW’s legendary attention to details such as equal front and rear weight distribution, rear wheel drive, plus the uprated brakes, wheels and tyres on this model, all come together wonderfully with a seamless 8 speed automatic gear box and paddle shifters.
The trouble is, there are several other models to choose from, in particular the 120d, which is a VED band lower for little subjective loss of performance, and can still be had in M-Sport trim.
Meanwhile, hard-headed business owners will be attracted to the zero-VED, zero congestion charge, 100% capital write-down 116d ED – another new model with OTR pricing from £20,885.
Finally, the 125i should not be overlooked if your business mileage isn’t that high, offering nearly identical performance for less money. But if you are a passionate driver, a small business owner who wants to drive something special, the 125d is the winner. Try it, then look it up in our business car tax calculator. It squares all the circles and will be very popular.
The low down (6-speed manual)
| P11D Value: | £27,820 |
| Monthly business rental (ex VAT): | From £349 |
| Tax Bands 2012/13 to 2014/15: | 19%, 20%, 21% |
| Benefit in kind 2012/13 to 2014/15: | £5275, £5553, £5831 |
| Engine: | 2 litre 4 cyl turbocharged diesel |
| CO2 Emissions: | 129g/km |
| Power/torque: | 221PS/450Nm |
| 0-62mph/top speed: | 6.5secs/149mph |
| Economy: | 57.6mpg |
