Overview & Reviews

Many people aspire to own a luxury-branded sport coupe, but sometimes even established entry-level models can be financially out of reach. If you're in this situation and are searching for a more affordable option, the BMW 2 Series could very well hit the spot.

Compared to BMW's other compact two-door, the 4 Series, the 2 Series isn't as roomy or as comprehensively equipped with standard features. But in just about every other aspect, the 2 Series earns the BMW badge on its hood. It's an impressively fun car to drive, with two powerful engines available and sharp and rewarding handling. And if you do want a fully loaded car, most of BMW's popular convenience and luxury features are still available as options. Granted, some other affordably priced entry-level luxury cars may prove more practical given their four doors or bigger backseats, but overall, the BMW 2 Series is an excellent choice.

Current BMW 2 Series
The BMW 2 Series is a new compact luxury coupe for 2014. (A convertible version is likely to come out in the future.) Two trim levels are available: 228i and M235i. The 228i comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 240 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. If you want some additional power, the M235i is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 320 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. Directing this power to the rear wheels for both models is an eight-speed automatic transmission; a six speed manual is a no-cost option.

Standard equipment for the 228i includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, foglights, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and BMW's iDrive infotainment interface with a 6.5-inch display, Bluetooth and a 10-speaker sound system. The more powerful M235i adds extra features like adaptive xenon headlights and power front seats along with performance-oriented hardware such as an adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes and a sport exhaust. Major options for both the 228i and M235i include a navigation system with a larger display screen, leather upholstery, heated seats and additional active safety features.

Inside, the 2 Series greets its driver with classic BMW analog gauges, a simple, functional design and high-end materials. The front seats are comfortable, but the rear seat is better reserved for extra luggage or small passengers, as both legroom and headroom are in short supply. The trunk is respectably sized, though, meaning the 2 Series should work quite well for weekend getaways.

What really sets the BMW 2 Series apart from other entry-luxury coupes is the driving experience. The 228i might be the base model, but its performance is still better than most other competitors in this price range. The eight-speed automatic transmission is quick to respond to commands, making for easy passing maneuvers and good manners in traffic. Those who want even more punch will want to opt for the M235i, as its potent straight-6 engine really ups the performance ante. While the M235i isn't a traditional BMW M model like the M3 or M5, it delivers high performance yet is still respectably comfortable in normal driving situations.

Used BMW 2 Series Models
The BMW 2 Series is an all-new model, but buyers interested in purchasing a small, used BMW could look at the similarly sized BMW 1 Series coupe and convertible, which were sold from 2008-'13.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 12.00

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  2015 228i (6-speed Manual) - 2015 BMW 2-Series
  By autocplane - December 12 - 8:25 am

  I bought this car after seriously considering a VW GTI, which you can buy at a lower price point. (Note I would have also considered the Audi A3, but no manual transmission was a deal breaker, and the GTI really is the same car with a different appearance.) However this was a 2015 and I was able to get a strong deal (about $6000 below MSRP, otherwise I probably wouldnt have been willing to go for it). After considering the performance benefits, maintenance included, nicer styling, and learning that I would actually pay more for insurance on the VW, I chose the 228i. Compared to the VW, you get a nicer engine with much less/no turbo lag and better handling from 50/50 weight distribution and RWD. Also, in my opinion, this car looks much better than the VW. This is actually my first RWD car, having previously owned a Mazda. In comparison, I enjoy the more upscale interior and quieter cabin. I have the Harmon Kardon audio system and enjoy it very much. Ive even had two adults in the back seat and consider the space reasonable for this size coupe, but it is certainly easier to get in and out of the back seat of a sedan. The front seats are sufficiently roomy and comfortable, and I have been impressed by the visibility as I have less of a blind spot than I did in my Mazda. Regarding driving feel, I will say in my first few weeks, I missed my Mazdas tight steering feedback and the BMW gearbox took a little adjusting for me. In contrast, in a test drive, I felt the VW gearbox was quite smooth and easy to get used to. Now that I have had some time in the car, I feel accustomed to the gearbox. The BMW ride is quieter and comfortable, but with 18" wheels, some of the larger expansion joints can become more noticeable. Ive been impressed by the mileage that Ive been getting so far. In the first 700 miles or so (break-in period is 1200), I have been averaging 31 mpg driving gently and using the ECO PRO mode often. Acceleration is sluggish in ECO PRO, but there is certainly no reason not to use it when cruising on the highway. Switching between the modes is very easy beside the shifter. Sport mode makes awakens a totally different personality of more torque and faster throttle response. I opted for the M-Sport suspension, so that gets activated in sport mode as well - truly fun to drive. My driving is mostly highway with about 20% side roads/city. The auto shut-off feature, which is an annoyance to some, is something I appreciate when stopped for a while. The engine starts right up as soon as I depress the clutch and if I dont want the engine to shut off, it is easy to disable or hold off for a moment by keeping the clutch depressed. Last, BMW comes with regenerative breaking, which also contributes to fuel savings. These features and some other subtleties in the BMW come standard, but are not available in many other cars. In the end, I have a feeling I am getting better fuel economy than I would be able to in the VW. But, if I chose to drive aggressively more of the time, I am sure that would disappear. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase (despite some hiccups with the dealer experience, but that has never been smooth for me). Ill note that BMWs options and packages can make things confusing for the buyer as there are so many configurations, and some things that should come standard on an upscale vehicle dont. For me, the overall rating is between 4 and 5 stars due to the things that BMW nickel and dimes you for (such as key-less entry and Bluetooth on the 2015) and an infotainment system that could be a little more streamlined, although I have gotten used to it and do like it. If you do your research, you can spec out a great car. I plan on enjoying mine for years to come, and am looking forward to completing the break-in period.

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  Pocket rocket - 2016 BMW 2-Series
  By Stuart - July 13 - 4:04 am

  Fast car not quite as sporty unless driven in sport mode then much more impressive. Do not like that tires are not runflat and there is no spare.