Overview

The fun-size BMW 2-series is an entry-level luxury car with big thrust. Sold as a coupe only, the 230i and M240i have vastly different power levels, but are both offered with either rear- or all-wheel-drive. The 230i employs a turbocharged 255-hp inline-four that it shares with the Toyota Supra 2.0 and a host of other BMW products. The M240i comes with the far more entertaining turbocharged 382-hp inline-six engine. Sadly, no manual transmission is offered. Still, BMW’s smallest car’s recent redesign has wrought a deceptively quick ride, with solid braking and a chassis that loves the twisties. Although it’s grown in size, its rear seat space is smaller than before. However, the most important aspect of the 2-series remains true in this generation: it rewards spirited driving at a reasonable price—particularly in four-cylinder, 230i form. There is a more rear-passenger-friendly four-door wearing a 2-series badge: it’s known as the Gran Coupe but it’s built on a completely different front-drive platform that has yet to win us over. We review that model separately.

What’s New for 2022?

The BMW 2-series was fully redesigned last year, so there are only minor changes for the 2023 model year. BMW adds a new curved gauge cluster display as standard equipment and removes Satin Aluminum exterior and Black High Gloss interior trim options from its build sheet.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 230i features a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and the M240i has a 382-hp turbo 3.0-liter inline-six. The 230i and M240i are both offered with rear- and all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission choice. During our test of the 230i, it reached 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and a quarter-mile in 13.7 seconds at 101 mph. Those looking to squeeze the most performance out of the 230i will want to choose the M Sport and Dynamic Handling packages that together include 19-inch wheels on performance tires, a sportier suspension, upgraded brakes, a variable-ratio steering system, and an electronically controlled rear differential. Most of these goodies and more come standard on the M240i. When we tested that model we were impressed by its ability to lunge off the line (60 mph in 3.6 seconds) and its refined ride-and-handing. But like many of the latest Bimmers we wish it had better steering feedback.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Although BMW’s interior design language isn’t groundbreaking, it is enhanced by the excellent build quality and satisfying ergonomics. Inside, the new 2-series adopts the company’s ubiquitous styling and layout. While a set of analog gauges are standard, a fully digital instrument panel that measures 12.3 inches and a head-up display are available. We only wish the front seats felt more supportive. Also, despite an increase in overall length and width, including a wheelbase that’s stretched by 2.0 inches, the coupe’s back seat has less headroom and legroom than the model it replaces.