BMW have introduced a spiritual successor to its legendary 2002 coupe with the new 2 Series. The 2 Series is an impressive, all-new nameplate for 2014 that boasts tight two-door lines with seating for four.
The 2 Series replaces the 1 Series and keeps BMW’s naming strategy aligned — sedans start with odd numbers and coupes with even numbers. Currently, the 2 Series is available in two models: the base 228i and a sportier M235i. Early next year, a 2 Series Cabriolet will be available.
The entry-level luxury segment is growing quickly. The BMW 2 Series joins the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and the Acura ILX, to name some of the fiercely competitive entries.
Design
The all-new 2 Series brings with it a distinctly masculine appearance. This edgy look is defined by the pronounced lower air intakes and unique headlights. The aggressive lines flow down the sides and are complemented by the tapered roofline.
Measuring 4,432 mm in length, the two-door 2 Series is 108 mm longer than the 1 Series Sedan and 72 mm longer than the 1 Series Coupe it replaces.
Also, the 2 Series is 26 mm wider than the outgoing model and has a 30 mm longer wheelbase and wider track. At the same time, the sloping roof is 5 mm lower, which helps it achieve a near 50:50 weight balance.
There are several benefits to these changes: first is the boost to aerodynamics, which in essence improves fuel economy; second is the increase in interior and cargo space. The most notable increase is the added 20 litres in trunk capacity.
Performance
Both 2 Series models are motivated by potent and efficient turbocharged engines.
The base 228i is powered by BMW’s proven 2.0-litre inline-four that is rated at 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Under the hood of the M235i is a 3.0-litre inline-six which bumps power to 322 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.
Being the only rear-wheel drive car in this class makes the 2 Series a fun to drive, serious compact. Aiding this factor is the BMW’s ability to create maximum torque at low rpm and holding it over a long range.
Not to be forgotten, the 2 Series is a very light car and therefore has a very good power-to-weight ratio. The motor in the M235i only has to move 4.9 kg for each horsepower.
Power is relayed to the wheels through either the standard six-speed manual or an eight-speed Sport Automatic.
The manual is nearly perfect. The clutch is nicely weighted and the shifter has a short throw allowing you to make quick changes.
Despite that praise, the optional automatic is even better. It has a gear for every circumstance, and as a result, is quicker and more fuel-efficient.
ile limiting body roll. Likewise, the standard variable sport steering is crisp and requires minimal effort to keep the nose pointed in the right direction.
The 2 Series also allows the driver to tailor the ride to suit their mood. There are four selectable modes — Comfort, Eco Pro, Sport and Sport+ — and each has notably different characteristics.
What’s so astonishing is the fact that when I drove the M235i back-to-back with a much bigger and more expensive M4 coupe, I actually enjoyed driving the M235i significantly more due to its light, easy-to-drive athletic character.
Environment
The cabin of the 2 Series is very driver-centric and will feel familiar to current BMW owners. The materials are all high quality and the controls are conveniently placed for easy reach.
The front seats are well bolstered and keep you planted around hard corners and comfortable cruising around town. The chunky steering wheel provides good grip and allows adequate feedback for the driver. The overall steering feel is one of the best I’ve experienced this year.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind. While most manufacturers are switching to touchscreen infotainment systems, BMW continues to use its iDrive system. Drivers operate the system using a remote below the shifter and, while the system itself is easy to understand, locating the controller could mean taking your eyes off the road.
The more significant drawback is rear passenger space. Headroom is not great, but legroom is nearly non-existent. No adult will want to spend much time in the rear seats.
Conversely, trunk space is actually quite good for a sport coupe. The total 390 litres of cargo room is aided by the folding rear seatbacks. But in either case, the 2-series is obviously not meant to replace a family sports sedan by any means.
Features
The BMW 228i has a starting price of $36,00 and the M235i starts at 45,000.
Standard equipment includes heated front seats, auto-dimming interior mirror, automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers and auto headlights, runflat tires, and USB integration with Bluetooth.
Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include auto-dimming exterior mirrors, sunroof, heated steering wheel, rearview camera, park assistant, parking sensors, adaptive headlights, lane departure and collision warning, and onboard Internet.
Fuel efficiency numbers (L/100km) for the 228i with the eight-speed auto are 8.7 city, 5.4 highway and 7.2 combined. Automatic M235i models return 10.0 city, 6.4 highway for 8.4 combined.
Thumbs Up
The 2 Series has one of the best handling and steering characteristics of any car in this class.
Thumbs Down
The 2 Series lacks passenger space and its rivals offer more space because of the four-door design.
The Bottom Line
The BMW 2 Series is a premium sports coupe with excellent performance that brings back all the great things about owning a BMW.
