2022 BMW 2-Series comes along with an available all-wheel-drive system, the two-door Bimmer has two turbocharged engine options: a 255-hp four-cylinder (230i models) and a 382-hp straight-six (M240i).
Unfortunately, the convertible body style is discontinued and there’s no manual transmission option. Still, the new 2 should be as entertaining to drive as the first generation, and it has the performance add-ons to elevate the experience.
Plus, the compact luxury car has a distinguished façade and a modern interior that’s roomier than the coupe it’s replacing. As the follow-up to one of BMW’s most affordable and satisfying machines, the 2022 2-series has high expectations.
ENGINE AND IMPLEMENTATION
The outgoing 2022 BMW 2-Series is an entertaining little two-door that some call the quintessential BMW. Not only does its finely tuned chassis contribute to a sense of playfulness and refinement, but so do its rear-drive architecture and smooth engines.
We expect those characteristics to continue on the next generation, and power will again come from either a turbocharged four- or six-cylinder mill.
The 230i features the former, a 2.0-liter with 255 horsepower. The more powerful M240i has a 382-hp 3.0-liter inline-six. Initially, the 230i will only be offered with rear-wheel drive and the M240i will be all-wheel-drive only.
However, both variants will eventually be available with each respective drivetrain. An eight-speed automatic will be 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, and a variable-ratio steering system, and an electronically controlled rear differential. Most of these goodies and more come standard on the M240i.
ENERGY AND REAL-WORLD MPG
The rear-drive, four-cylinder 230i is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive, six-cylinder M240i is rated at 23 mpg city and 32 on the highway.
Once we can run them on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, we can evaluate their real-world highway mpg. For more information about the 2-2022 BMW 2-Series’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
INTERIOR, CONVENIENCE, AND BOOTH
Although the 2022 BMW 2-Series‘s interior design language isn’t groundbreaking, it’s enhanced by the excellent build quality and satisfying ergonomics. Inside, the new 2-series adopts the company’s ubiquitous styling and layout.
The materials look to be appropriately upscale and there are a variety of luxury features. 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.
Notable standard features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and three-zone climate control. Desirable options include customizable ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and leather upholstery.
Thanks to an increase in overall length and width, including a wheelbase that’s stretched by 2.0 inches, the two-door coupe is roomier than its predecessor.
IN-VEHICLE INFOTAINMENT AND INTERCONNECTIONS
The 2022 BMW 2-Series‘s infotainment system runs through either a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen or an available 10.3-inch unit. Along with steering-wheel controls and voice commands, the interface can be manipulated via a rotary controller on the center console that’s surrounded by useful shortcut buttons.
BMW also kindly includes a physical volume knob. Every model includes a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker stereo. Those who want a more powerful sound system can upgrade to a 14-speaker, 464-watt Harman Kardon setup.
PROTECTION AND DRIVER-ASSISTANCE ASPECTS
Along with an array of standard driver-assistance technology that includes blind-spot monitoring, every 2-series is fitted with front and rear parking sensors. 2022 BMW 2-Series can also be optioned with a self-parking assist that will automatically park it in or out of parallel or perpendicular spots.
For more information about the 2022 BMW 2-Series crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
PHOTOS
FULL SPECIFICATIONS
2022 BMW M240i xDrive
Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe
PRICE
Base/As Tested: $49,545/$58,995
Options: premium package (adaptive LED headlights, automatic high beams, heated front seats and steering wheel, navigation, head-up display), $2750; cooling and high-performance tire package (245/35R-19 front and 255/35R-19 rear performance tires, additional engine-oil cooler, larger radiator fan), $2400; leather seats with bolster adjustment, $1450; Harman/Kardon audio system, $875; parking assistance package (active park distance control, surround view camera), $700; Thundernight metallic paint, $550; Shadowline package (dark trim), $400; lumbar adjustment, $350; aluminum tetragon trim, $150; drive recorder, $100; passenger width delete, -$100; passenger lumbar delete, -$175
ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 183 in3, 2998 cm3
Power: 382 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic
CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 14.7-in vented disc/13.6-in vented disc
Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
F: 245/35ZR-19 (93Y) ★ R: 255/35ZR-19 (96Y) ★
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 107.9 in
Length: 179.4 in
Width: 72.4 in
Height: 55.3 in
Passenger Volume: 85 ft3
Trunk Volume: 14 ft3
Curb Weight: 3877 lb
C/D TEST RESULTS
60 mph: 3.6 sec
100 mph: 9.1 sec
1/4-Mile: 12.1 sec @ 114 mph
130 mph: 16.2 sec
Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.2 sec.
Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.0 sec
Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 2.4 sec
Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.0 sec
Top Speed (mfr’s claim): 155 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 153 ft
Braking, 100–0 mph: 307 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.94 g
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 26/23/32 mpg