2018 BMW 2 Series
BMW's replacement for the 1 Series coupe, the 2 Series, rounds out the sporting credentials of its spirited predecessor with sleeker styling, a more upscale cabin and numerous new technology features. It won't disappoint those seeking a small luxury two-door with engaging driving dynamics.
The 2 Series is available as a coupe or as a convertible. BMW also offers a hot-rodded model named M2 billed as a heir to the original E30-generation M3.
Recent changes
BMW has re-structured the list of standard and optional features for the latest model year. The 2 Series remains fundamentally unchanged.
Overview
Furthering BMW's reputation for understated style, the 2 Series applies the brand's kidney grille and Hoffmeister Kink C-pillar cues to a 7/10ths-scale version of the classic long-hood, short rear deck coupe form.
Inside, the 2 Series borrows much of clean design and comfortable appointments with the iconic 3 Series sport sedan; the two also share numerous drivetrain and platform components. A duo of simple, legible gauges greet the driver from behind a sporty three-spoke steering wheel, while a choice of brushed aluminum, wood or silver matte trims adorn the dashboard and door panels. Available Sport and M Sport lines - more on those later - let buyers personalize the interior with unique trim, upholstery and design elements.
Supportive standard seats or optional sports thrones provide a comfortable experience for those sitting up front, though limited leg- and headroom means that the rear seats are an occasional-use only affair. Trunk space is rated at a sedan-like 13.8 cubic feet.
All 2 Series models are fitted as standard with BMW's knob-based iDrive infotainment system, which has evolved over the years from a bewildering complex unit to surprisingly simple and user-friendly system. It displays stereo and vehicle information on a tablet-style 6.5-inch screen mounted atop the dashboard; navigation-equipped coupes get a larger 8.8-inch display along with a touch pad mounted on the iDrive knob that lets users write out phone numbers, contact names and navigation destinations - and also zoom in or zoom out the map - with a finger.
Other notable technologies include options such as automatic high beam headlights and an automatic parallel parking system that steers the 2-Series into a spot while the driver controls the gearshift, accelerator and brake.
Performance
BMW breaks the line-up down into two models named 230i and M240i, respectively.
The 230i offers turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 248 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 258 pound-feet of torque from 1,450 to 4,800 rpm. Rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission come standard; buyers can select an eight-speed automatic gearbox and/or BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive at an extra cost.
The 230i hits 60 mph from a stop in 5.5 seconds when it's ordered with a stick. Selecting both all-wheel drive and the automatic lowers that time to 5.2 seconds.
Next up is the M240i. Likely the last of a breed, it receives a turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six that delivers 335 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 369 pound-feet of torque between 1,520 and 4,500 rpm.
The six-cylinder is offered with the same transmission and drive options as the four. The M240i's zero-to-60-mph time checks in at 4.2 seconds with two pedals and xDrive. If that's still not fast enough, we suggest you take a look at the M2.
Standard and optional features
The base 230i comes standard with SensaTec upholstery, a start/stop system, a multi-function steering wheel, 17-inch wheels, run-flat tires, floor mats, power-adjustable front seats, rain-sensing wipers, automatic LED headlights, dynamic cruise control, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The M240i adds, in addition to the bigger six-cylinder engine, 18-inch wheels, M sport brakes, variable sport steering, an adaptive suspension, a Homelink transceiver, keyless entry, a moonroof, auto-dimming mirrors, ambient lightning, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a rear spoiler.
The list of standalone options includes a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, leather upholstery, parking sensors, adaptive LED headlights, navigation, a premium sound system, and a wireless charger.
Buyers can also choose from a list of several option packages, including the Premium Package. Many of the M240i's standard features are bundled into option packages for the 230i, too.
Occupant safety
All 2 Series models come standard with dual front, front side, front knee, and full-length side curtain airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems.
Available safety options include a lane departure warning system, blind zone alert and automatic collision notification.
Key competitors
As a compact luxury sport coupe, the 2 Series doesn't have any true rivals. The Audi TT is similarly coddling but larger, less agile, and more expensive. The Infiniti Q60 is similarly sporting, though it, too, is bigger and much pricier. On the lower end of the price spectrum, the Ford Mustang is quicker but less luxurious.
- Propulsion: Gas 2.0L I4
- Power: 248hp
@
5200rpm - Torque: 258ftâ‹…lb
@
1450-4800rpm - Mileage: TBD MPG ( TBD city, TBD hwy)
- Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
- Seating: 4 seats
in
2 rows - Passenger Volume: TBDcu ft
- Length: 174.7in
- Wheelbase: 105.9in
- Height: 55.8in
- Weight: 3380lbs
- Cargo Volume: 13.8cu ft
- Front Leg Room: 41.5in
- Front Head Room: 40.1in
- Front Hip Room: TBDin
- Rear Leg Room: 33in
- Rear Head Room: 36.5in
- Rear Hip Room: TBDin
- Drag Coefficient: TBD
- Drag Coefficient: TBD