If BMW’s floaty 7-series and disconnected 3-series are symptoms of something amiss in the state of Bavaria, then the 2-series is the antidote. This sports coupe is quick, nimble, and engaging the way that some our favorite Bimmers of yore were. Two models, the 248-hp 230i and the 335-hp M240i, span the distance from slightly sportier than average to nearly track ready. Both powertrains are available with all-wheel drive and as convertibles, and while the interior is cramped for four, it could be the perfect chariot for a single person in search of a more exciting commute. Others in the class have more in the way of active safety technology, luxury materials, and connectivity options, but we’re still happy any time we can get behind the wheel of this gift to BMW’s faithful.
Highs
A pair of truly great engines, big fun to drive, looks every bit a BMW.
Lows
Cramped back seat, behind the curve on active safety, interior is plain for the price.
Verdict
Small and relatively affordable (for a BMW) and a good way for Bimmerphiles to get their fix.
What’s New for 2018?
After a thorough overhaul in the form of two new engines in 2017, changes to the 2-series are minor this year. The interior design has been tweaked, with new high-gloss black trim on the center stack and touches of chrome brightwork on some switches. Three new metallic colors are available, and there are four new wheel designs, including new standard wheels for both the 230i and the M240i. LED head- and taillamps are now standard, too.
What Was New for 2017?
Both of the available engines for the 2-series were new for 2017, resulting in new names for both models. The entry-level trim, formerly the 228i, became the 230i with a 248-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. The scalding M240i, previously known as the M235i, received a new 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Seventeen-inch wheels became standard equipment on the 230i, while 18-inch wheels and sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer tires made their way onto the M240i. The Technology package was updated to include navigation, and a wireless charging pad and a Wi-Fi hotspot, among other minor infotainment updates, were also made available.
Trims and Options We’d Choose
The 2-series presents us with the agony of choice. Both models are good in their own right: the 230i is the lower-key, more well-rounded sibling. It’s well executed and less costly, at a starting price of $35,795, and swift enough to keep most drivers happy. The M240i is the hot rod of the family, always ready for action, with eye-popping acceleration just a push of the throttle away, but it starts at $46,295. A sweet-shifting manual transmission is a no-cost option for both trim levels, and all-wheel drive can replace rear-wheel drive for $2000 in either model. Making the 230i a convertible adds $5800, while a droptop M240i is $4600 more than its fixed-roof twin. We’ll go big with the M240i coupe, which comes standard with:
• Adaptive suspension
• 10-way power-adjustable front seats
• Adaptive cruise control
Highs
A pair of truly great engines, big fun to drive, looks every bit a BMW.
Lows
Cramped back seat, behind the curve on active safety, interior is plain for the price.
Verdict
Small and relatively affordable (for a BMW) and a good way for Bimmerphiles to get their fix.
What’s New for 2018?
After a thorough overhaul in the form of two new engines in 2017, changes to the 2-series are minor this year. The interior design has been tweaked, with new high-gloss black trim on the center stack and touches of chrome brightwork on some switches. Three new metallic colors are available, and there are four new wheel designs, including new standard wheels for both the 230i and the M240i. LED head- and taillamps are now standard, too.
What Was New for 2017?
Both of the available engines for the 2-series were new for 2017, resulting in new names for both models. The entry-level trim, formerly the 228i, became the 230i with a 248-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. The scalding M240i, previously known as the M235i, received a new 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Seventeen-inch wheels became standard equipment on the 230i, while 18-inch wheels and sticky Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer tires made their way onto the M240i. The Technology package was updated to include navigation, and a wireless charging pad and a Wi-Fi hotspot, among other minor infotainment updates, were also made available.
Trims and Options We’d Choose
The 2-series presents us with the agony of choice. Both models are good in their own right: the 230i is the lower-key, more well-rounded sibling. It’s well executed and less costly, at a starting price of $35,795, and swift enough to keep most drivers happy. The M240i is the hot rod of the family, always ready for action, with eye-popping acceleration just a push of the throttle away, but it starts at $46,295. A sweet-shifting manual transmission is a no-cost option for both trim levels, and all-wheel drive can replace rear-wheel drive for $2000 in either model. Making the 230i a convertible adds $5800, while a droptop M240i is $4600 more than its fixed-roof twin. We’ll go big with the M240i coupe, which comes standard with:
• Adaptive suspension
• 10-way power-adjustable front seats
• Adaptive cruise control
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