The BMW 2-Series is available in two trim levels, 228i and M235i. Both come as 2-door coupes, though the car does feature back seats. Both cars are rear-wheel drive, though xDrive all-wheel drive is available on both trims. The 228i is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 240 horsepower. The M235i features a 3.0L straight 6-cylinder powerplant producing 320 horsepower with the help of a turbocharger. Both cars come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission, but a 6-speed manual is a no-cost option on either model. BMW claims highway efficiency of 32 mpg and 36 mpg respectively for the M235i and the 228i, when equipped with the automatic transmission.
A big part of the mission of the 2-Series is to be fun to drive. BMW has accomplished this through an all-independent suspension setup with a 5-link rear suspension setup and rear-wheel drive, the latter being a fairly unique feature in this class. The 2-Series is thus able to out-handle most of its competitors in addition to being quite quick in a straight line. Body roll, dive and squat are all nicely controlled without compromising the car's ride quality.
The BMW 228i is the more pedestrian of the two models but still comes reasonably well equipped. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, an 8-way adjustable driver's seat, 60/40 folding rear seats, a leather wrapped steering wheel with controls for the stereo and Bluetooth setup, a 6.5-inch full color display, a USB port, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers and a memory system that remembers the driver's favorite settings for everything. The 228i can be equipped with either Sport Line or M Sport upgrades, which add features like larger wheels, rear spoiler, improved suspension calibration and more.
The M235i comes better equipped, starting of course with the stronger engine. Other features on the M235i include bigger brakes, 18-inch alloy wheels, 10-way power adjustable front seats, a sports instrument cluster and dynamic cruise control.
Optional items on the 2-Series include leather seating surfaces, satellite radio, heated seats, a moonroof, a Harman/Kardon premium sound system and concierge services. Packages include a driver assistance package with parking sensors and a rear facing camera, as well as a technology package, which includes a navigation system with real time traffic updates and access to BMW apps. New this year is a Track Handling Package, with Adaptive M Suspension, variable sport steering, M Sport brakes and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
Safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability/traction control and several airbags. The BMW 2-Series also comes standard with an emergency request system that will activate in the event of an accident. The system comes with a 10-year subscription.
Sporty
Compact
Fun To Drive
Rear-wheel Drive Or All-wheel Drive Availability
European Feel
The BMW 2-Series Coupe is unchanged for 2016, but the convertible gets more standard equipment as well as the option of all-wheel drive. The 2016 2-Series convertible now comes standard with an anti-theft alarm system along with many of the features from last year's Sports Line Package, including nicer seats, additional exterior trim pieces and red stitching on the steering wheel.
The BMW 2-Series is a sporty luxury compact that competes with other small European cars such as the Audi A3, the MINI Cooper and the Mercedes CLA. The BMW 2-Series, however, is significantly sportier than its competitors and features better handling and a more hardcore, driver-oriented demeanor. Starting at about $32,000, the BMW 2-Series offers a nice compromise between an all-out sports car and a sophisticated German compact.
