I see where you are coming from. I love my e82, I think the front is the best part as I don't care much for the rear. Still an awesome car that has it's presence when driving down the road, I get looks all the time
From what I've seen so far though, the M235i seems to further progress what the 135i is now, hence the 2 series nomenclature, and with the M badge behind it, it looks as if it's going to live up to its name.
I don't really think it's plain looking. Seems like it's wider, longer, and has a wider mouth at the front. I think it will look a lot better once professional pics surface from different angles.
I'm so looking forward to this car :thumbs up: