Best sports car under $80,000

Four years of category domination by BMW in the form of the 135i Coupe ended this year, but only because it was replaced by the even more potent M135i hot hatch as BMW’s volume seller in this segment.

The silky-smooth, turbo 3.0-litre six has been handed a power boost to deliver 235 kW at 5800 rpm and a substantial 450 Nm from 1250 rpm. On the road, the engine shows no signs of slowing down, as it delivers aural pleasure all the way to the 7000 rpm red-line.

A larger brake package stands the M135i on its nose time and again without a whimper. Driving through the rear wheels adds considerably to the balance of the BMW, allowing the front wheels to get on with the job of pointing the car in the right direction.

Both the M135i’s M-tuned sports suspension and variable sports steering system can be controlled by the driver to deliver the desired ride and handling characteristics.

The amount of grip is astonishing. The adjustable suspension allows selection of a comfort mode, so the ride never becomes uncomfortable for everyday driving.

Inside, the driver is treated to sports leather seats that support in all the right areas, all controls fall easily to hand, and there is a sense of quality build and finish.