2022 BMW 240i drives big as small luxury coupe

Just when every niche in the automotive industry appears filled, another arises. The 2022 BMW 2 Series coupe 240i is a leader in the small luxury car fraternity. It’s a small group, which includes country rivals from Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

Following the discontinuation of the convertible offering, the redesigned 2022 BMW 2 Series coupe is available in two trims, 230i and the reviewed M240i xDrive. The base 230i features a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower.

The M240i xDrive more defines many BMW drivers’ common enjoyment — performance rules. It includes a 3-liter, 24-valve, 6-cylinder, 382 horsepower engine matched with an eight-speed transmission. A manual transmission is not available. The all-wheel-drive engine also has a stability control system. It provides the small BMW with a less-rigid feel than many of the carmaker’s models. It’s simultaneously confident and playful to drive.

2022 BMW Coupe: Fast, Versatile

Loyal BMW owners relish in the brand’s trademark driving prowess. Blast along the open roads of Germany and carmaker’s offerings are at their best. But top performance doesn’t always transfer to daily driving, although BMW drivers collectively think there’s little difference between the Autobahn and city trips where there’s plenty of reason for road civility.

The M240i xDrive is versatile. It can accelerate from zero-to-60 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds and handles superbly with sport-oriented steering, steering and a rear differential. But like its less powerful sibling, the M2240i does subtle well, too. It doesn’t have to show off its performance chops when an easy drive across is ideal.

 

As a small luxury car, BMW 2 Series further identifies its status. It’s a four-passenger car that doesn’t pretend otherwise. Its luxury status isn’t about spaciousness. The front seating area is comfortable with sufficient headroom, legroom and overall proportions. The rear seating has sub-par space, and it’s difficult to enter and exist — common in coupes.

Technology features cover the current main areas. The 2 Series has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration as well as a wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports, all standard. The optional Harman Kardon audio system ($875) is satisfying.

2022 BMW Coupe: Value-Priced

Using the infotainment system requires a learning curve. But all controls are easily accessible and become routine. The exception, like in other new vehicles, is the sensitivity of the warning detection systems; the audio and visual announcements occur far earlier than necessary. The shrill-sounding warning sound may cause an overreaction or an accident rather than diffuse a potential problem.

With a base price of $48,550, the BMW M240i xDrive is slated a few thousand dollars above the average new price of a car in the United States. It’s a value considering the car’s luxury status. Of course, extras are involved.

The Premium Package ($2,750) adds heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, adaptive full LED lights and Live Cockpit Pro. It allows the driver to see certain functions, including speed, and cruise control status on the gauge cluster.

2022 BMW: Lots Of Extras

The Driver Assist Package ($1,450) features active cruise control, parking assist plus, a surround 360-degree 3D view, active parking distance control and a drive recorder.

Visually, the BMW’s Mineral White Metallic exterior paint matches well with the Tacora Red Vernasca leather interior. Combined, it’s another $2,000 expenditure.

Considering its performance orientation, the BMW M240i xDrive is fuel-efficient, averaging 26 miles per gallon in city driveling, and 32 mpg on the highway.

The second-generation coupe, a mini car in the luxury vehicle world, prices out at $57,295. All things tallied, a sub $60,000 vehicle from notoriously pricey BMW has plenty of appeal.

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