2017 BMW 2-series
Overview
Compact, solid, nimble, and quick, the 2-series is a link back to when BMWs felt as if they were designed exclusively to delight enthusiastic drivers. The 2-series comes in two flavors: the zesty 248-hp 230i and the jalapeño-hot 335-hp M240i, both available in coupe or convertible body style. With optional manual transmissions, well-executed automatics, and a choice between rear- and all-wheel drive, the 2-series is a comprehensive take on the entry-luxury sports model. We wouldn’t say no to more modern active safety equipment or richer interior materials at this price point, but their absence won’t keep us from enjoying the ride.
What's New for 2017?
Both of the available engines for the 2-series are new for 2017, resulting in new names for both models. The entry-level trim, the 230i (formerly the 228i), is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. The scalding M240i (previously called the M235i) gets its heat from a turbocharged inline-six. Each model has new wheels and performance tires for 2017, as well as available navigation, a wireless charging pad, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
Base Coupe: $34,145
Base Convertible: $39,945
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
You can't go wrong with either of the 2-series engine choices. The base 248-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four is one of the best on the market. It's always on call, responding quickly to your right foot with little to no turbo lag. It revs smoothly, accelerates with alacrity, and sounds reasonably refined. The M240i is another story, and a lightning-quick one: its turbocharged 335-hp 3.0-liter inline-six sings a mechanical aria as it rockets the small coupe to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. That puts it in league with some very fast, high-performance machinery with names like Porsche Boxster and Chevrolet Camaro SS. The 2-series gets bonus points for offering a manual transmission with both engines in addition to an excellent eight-speed automatic. You want driving enjoyment in a small, four-seat coupe or convertible? The 2-series is one of the world’s best answers. These models handle with aplomb, thanks in part to quick, accurate steering response and a solid, capable chassis. The ride over uneven pavement is generally good, and passengers are isolated from most bumps by the firmly controlled suspension.
2018 BMW 2-Series
Overview
If BMW’s floaty 7-series and disconnected 3-series are symptoms of something amiss in the state of Bavaria, then the 2018 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 xDrive all-wheel drive and in both coupe and convertible body styles. While the 2's interior is cramped for four, it could be the perfect chariot for a single person in search of a more exciting commute. Other cars 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 great-driving gift to BMW’s faithful.
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.
Pricing
Pricing is in 2018 dollars:
230i Coupe: $35,945
230i xDrive Coupe: $37,945
230i Convertible: $41,745
230i xDrive Convertible: $43,745
M240i Coupe: $46,445
M240i xDrive Coupe: $48,445
M240i Convertible: $51,045
M240i xDrive Convertible: $53,045
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
After a major overhaul for 2017, the powertrains in the 2-series are unchanged for 2018, and you won’t catch us complaining. The 230i’s standard powerplant is one of the best turbocharged inline-fours on the market, and the 240i’s turbo six is flat-out thrilling. The 2-series gets bonus points for offering a manual transmission with both engines in addition to well-coordinated eight-speed automatics. The 230i’s 248-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four is always on call, responding quickly to your right foot with little to no turbo lag. It revs smoothly, accelerates with alacrity, and sounds reasonably refined—if not enthralling at all but the top of its rpm range. The automatic transmission on our 230i test car danced with it beautifully, providing smooth, quick shifts and ready kickdowns for passing. The combination was good for a zero-to-60-mph sprint of 5.3 seconds. The M240i is another story, and a lightning-quick one: its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six sings a mechanical aria as it rockets the small coupe to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. The 2-series handles itself with aplomb, thanks in part to its quick, accurate steering responses and its solid, capable chassis. The ride over uneven pavement is generally good, and passengers are isolated reasonably well from most bumps by the firmly controlled suspension. An adaptive suspension with adjustable shocks is standard in the M240i, and that, plus grippy summer tires, gives this car seriously responsive handling. The ride does become progressively stiffer as the driving-mode selector moves from Comfort to Sport and then Sport+. The brake pedal feels firm and substantial, and it delivers on that promise with short 70-mph-to-zero stopping distances.
2019 BMW 2-series
Overview
The 2019 BMW 2-series is quick, nimble, and engaging the way that some of 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 driver-assistance technology, luxury materials, and connectivity options, but we're still happy whenever we can get behind the wheel of this gift to BMW's faithful.
What's New for 2019?
For 2019, the 2-series remains mostly unchanged other than adding several newly standard features and revising certain option packages. Every model now has an updated gauge cluster along with driver-assistance equipment that includes forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection and automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors. Likewise, the Premium package now adds real-time traffic information, a one-year subscription to Apple CarPlay, and remote services that allow users to locate their vehicle as well as lock and unlock it via a smartphone app.
BMW 2-series Pricing and Which One to Buy
The M240i is the hot rod of the family, always ready for action, with eye-popping acceleration just a nudge of the throttle away. A sweet-shifting manual transmission is a no-cost option, and all-wheel drive can replace rear-wheel drive for $2000. The convertible version is $4600 more than its fixed-roof twin. We'd go big with the M240i coupe, which comes standard with an adaptive suspension, 10-way power-adjustable front seats, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Likes: Two incredible engines, snappy and smooth automatic, very satisfying to drive.
Dislikes: Ride can be harsh at times, exhaust note could be throatier.
You can't go wrong with either of the engines in the 2-series. It gets bonus points for offering a manual transmission with both engines in addition to well-coordinated eight-speed automatic transmission. The 230i's 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder is always on call, responding quickly to your right foot with little to no turbo lag. It revs smoothly, accelerates with alacrity, and sounds reasonably refined—if not enthralling at all except at the top of its rpm range. The automatic transmission on our 230i test car danced with it beautifully, providing smooth, quick shifts and ready kickdowns for passing. The combination was good for a zero-to-60-mph sprint of 5.3 seconds. The M240i is another story, and a lightning-quick one: its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six sings a mechanical aria as it rockets the small coupe to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
The 2-series handles itself with aplomb, thanks in part to its quick, accurate steering responses and its solid, capable chassis. The ride over uneven pavement is generally good, and passengers are isolated from most bumps by the firmly controlled suspension. Over repeated expansion joints, however, the 2-series rocks passengers as if they're on a penny-pony ride. An adaptive suspension with adjustable shocks is standard in the M240i, and that, plus grippy summer tires, gives this car seriously responsive handling capability. The ride does become progressively stiffer as the driving-mode selector moves from Comfort to Sport and then Sport+. The brake pedal feels firm and substantial, and it delivers on that promise with short 70-mph-to-zero stopping distances.
2020 BMW 2-Series
Overview
For BMW buyers seeking the brand's traditional driving involvement, the 2-series coupe and convertible provides that in spades even if their stablemates have moved slightly away from that goal. It takes on other entry-level luxury cars such as the Acura ILX, Audi A3, and the Mercedes-Benz A-class with one of two turbocharged engines—one four-cylinder, one six-cylinder—which can both be coupled to a six-speed manual transmission; an eight-speed automatic is also available. While its rivals may be more stylish, more luxurious, or more technologically advanced, the 2-series speaks directly to the auto enthusiasts in the market with more engaging driving dynamics.
What's New for 2020?
BMW has given the 2-series a visual freshening for 2020 by adding darkened taillights, a black or gray grille frame, updated wheel designs, and newly available black exterior mirror caps. Rain-sensing windshield wipers have been made standard across the range and Long Beach Blue is now offered on the M240i model, but sadly the Melbourne Red metallic and Sparkling Brown are not. A redesigned 2-series coupe is expected to launch for the 2022 model year.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Although it costs over $10,000 more than the 230i, we wholeheartedly recommend the ballsier M240i model. Its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six brings big power to the smallest BMW and it's the engine this chassis truly deserves. To help justify the increase in expense, the M240i also comes with more standard equipment, including 10-way power adjustable front seats, an adaptive suspension, racier exterior styling elements, a power sunroof, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
You can't go wrong with either of the engines in the 2-series. It gets bonus points for offering a manual transmission with both engines in addition to a well-coordinated eight-speed automatic transmission. The 230i's 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder is always on call, responding quickly to your right foot with little to no turbo lag. The M240i is another story, and a lightning-quick one: its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six sings a mechanical aria as it rockets the small coupe to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The 2-series handles itself with aplomb, thanks in part to its quick, accurate steering responses and its solid, capable chassis. The ride over uneven pavement is generally good, and passengers are isolated from most bumps by the firmly controlled suspension. Over repeated expansion joints, however, the 2-series rocks passengers as if they're on a penny-pony ride. An adaptive suspension with adjustable shocks is standard in the M240i, and that, plus grippy summer tires, gives this car seriously responsive handling capability.
2021 BMW 2-Series
Overview
The 2021 BMW 2-series delivers everything we love about BMW's sporty driving dynamics in a handsome, well-priced package. Offered in both hardtop coupe and softtop convertible body styles, the 2-series is a compact sports car with plenty of compelling traits. The 230i model is powered by a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, but upgrading to the M240i swaps in a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that makes a stout 335 horsepower. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but BMW offers its xDrive all-wheel drive system as an option on both models. If you're looking for more practicality, you might find that one of this car's four-door rivals—such as the Audi A3, the Mercedes-Benz A-class, or even BMW's own 2-series Gran Coupe—fits the bill, but the 2-series coupe and convertible will be the choice of those who value driving verve over day-to-day usefulness.
What's New for 2021?
For 2021, BMW has made only minimal changes to the 2-series lineup. SiriusXM satellite radio is now standard and comes with real-time traffic updates. Apple CarPlay compatibility is also provided free of charge, and the optional in-dash navigation system is $800 cheaper than it was in last year's model. You can no longer order the 2-series with the Luxury Line package or the Track Handling package. We expect a new generation to debut soon, likely for the 2022 model year. Leaked photos show it will receive a thorough redesign, but we expect it'll retain its standard rear-wheel-drive setup.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Although the M240i coupe costs over $10,000 more than the 230i coupe, we wholeheartedly recommend the ballsier Bimmer. Its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six brings big power to the smallest BMW, and it's the engine this chassis truly deserves. To help justify the increase in expense, the M240i also comes with more standard equipment, including 10-way power-adjustable front seats, an adaptive suspension, racier exterior trim, a power sunroof, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
You can't go wrong with either of the engines in the 2-series. BMW gets bonus points for offering a manual transmission with both engines, though you can spec a well-coordinated eight-speed automatic transmission. The 230i's 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder is always on call, responding quickly to your right foot with little to no turbo lag. The M240i is another story, and a lightning-quick one: Its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six sings a mechanical aria as it rockets the small coupe to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The 2-series handles itself with aplomb, thanks in part to its quick, accurate steering responses and its solid, capable chassis. The ride over uneven pavement is generally good, and passengers are isolated from most bumps by the firmly controlled suspension. Over repeated expansion joints, however, the 2-series rocks passengers as if they were on a penny-pony ride. An adaptive suspension with adjustable dampers is standard in the M240i, and that, plus grippy summer tires, gives this car seriously responsive handling.
2022 BMW 2-Series
Overview
With the 2022 BMW 2-series, the German automaker makes its entry-level, two-door car even more satisfying. It's still available with rear- or all-wheel drive, and its turbocharged engine options include a 255-hp four-cylinder (230i models) and a 382-hp straight-six (M240i). A convertible body style and a manual transmission option are both gone. Still, the new 2 coupe is just as entertaining to drive and even more poised on the road. While it has a more distinguished façade and a modern interior, its back seat is actually smaller than its predecessor. As the follow-up to one of BMW's most affordable and satisfying machines, the 2022 2-series lives up to those expectations.
What's New for 2022?
The '22 2-series marks an all-new generation for one of BMW's most entertaining models. While we're happy to report it still comes standard with rear-wheel drive, the drop-top option has been dropped. Thankfully, the even racier M2 coupe will return and could have a manual gearbox.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
We think the rear-drive 230i is the one to buy. Its 255-hp turbo four isn't nearly as quick as the 382-hp straight-six in the M240i, especially without the added traction of all-wheel drive, we think it'll be similarly fun to drive with the addition of the Dynamic Handling and M Sport packages. The former requires the latter, but combined their mix of performance upgrades (bigger wheels on stickier tires, firmer suspension components, stronger brakes, etc.) and unique visual treatments are highly desirable.
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. Initially, the 230i is only offered with rear-wheel drive; the M240i is all-wheel-drive only. However, both variants will eventually be available with each respective drivetrain. An eight-speed automatic is the only transmission choice. 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. We've tested the latter and were impressed by its quick acceleration (60 mph in 3.6 seconds) and more refined ride, but we wish it had better steering feedback.
