A stunning engine wrapped in a capable and involving chassis. It even returns reasonable fuel economy for the 265bhp, if you can keep off the loud pedal. It might not be the best looking hatchback, but it does look purposeful in the right colour and spec. The interior is well designed and made of nice stuff, but that's all just dressing - the engine is a jewel. A torque-laden, growling, revvy, characterful masterpiece.
I am very happy with my 120d in general. It is not a perfect car, but it is really satisfying every time I drive it. Handling is brilliant and the steering feel is perfect. Rear passengers may not have lots of room, but acceptable. I know some may not like the looks, but to me, it's a cute little rhino, unusual yet distinctive with presence. Quality of cabin is mostly good, but I'd prefer less black plastic at the radio area. I've had this car for 1.5 years, no problems, still a pleasure to own.
Probably the most disappointing car I've ever owned. The expected excellent BMW driving characteristics compromised by poor traction (especially when wet), untrustworthy brakes and gearbox. The ABS actuated unnecessarily on several occasions. As I couldn't trust the vehicle in poor conditions due to poor traction and braking, it was hardly used in winter. The gearbox occasionally refused to change down, resulting in a dangerous lack of acceleration. Once this problem occurred it remained until the car stopped. The economy was excessive, even when trying hard it struggled to better 40 mpg (on economy friendly journeys). An equivalent powertrain Rover 75 was more efficient and displayed significantly better engine refinement. The engine noise was too loud and of poor quality, rattling excessively at idle (even warm) and droning noisily at moderate cruising speeds, as if the engine was labouring. The ride quality was dire, the vehicle fidgeted constantly, never settling down, it seemed to magnify some surfaces. This was an SE not Sport model. The switchgear layout is poor, I'm sure the one touch indicators were designed to confuse and the fog lights were hidden out of sight, cruise control, made things even worse. The dealer was incapable of sorting the problems. All they were able to do was plug in the diagnostics. Courtesy cars were never available. I decided to sell it after 5 months as I couldn't trust it, it lost 28% of its value in 5 months.
