The 2007–2013 BMW 123d 3-door Hatchback is a potent diesel-powered compact car, featuring a 2.0L bi-turbo inline-4 engine producing 204 hp and 400 Nm of torque. Enthusiasts and reviewers often praise its impressive performance, feeling "blown away" by the acceleration and high torque, especially its non-diesel-like high-revving nature, while achieving excellent fuel economy (mixed consumption around 5.2 L/100km). It is famous for combining sports car-like performance (0–100 km/h in 6.9 seconds) with diesel efficiency. Infamously, the optional M-Sport trim is frequently criticized for having an "unforgivable" and overly harsh ride. Today, it remains well-suited for drivers seeking a fun-to-drive, practical daily commuter with high performance and low running costs.
The 2007-2013 BMW 123d, equipped with the N47 engine, is known for timing chain reliability issues, which can lead to high repair costs. This concern is common among four-cylinder BMW diesels from that era.
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