The BMW 2-Series is available in two trim levels, 230i and M240i. Both come as 2-door coupes or convertibles. Both cars are rear-wheel drive, though xDrive all-wheel drive is available on both trims. The 230i is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The M240i features a turbocharged 3.0L straight-six powerplant that produces 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet. Both cars come standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission, but a 6-speed manual is a no-cost option on either model.
A big part of the mission of the 2-Series is to be fun to drive. BMW has accomplished this through an all-independent suspension with a 5-link rear suspension setup, a fairly unique feature in this class. The 2-Series is thus able to out-handle most of its competitors in addition to being quite quick in a straight line. Body roll, dive and squat are all nicely controlled without compromising the car's ride quality.
The BMW 230i is the more pedestrian of the two models but still comes reasonably well equipped. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, 60/40 folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with controls for the stereo and Bluetooth setup, sport buckets front seats, automatic climate control, push button start, rain-sensing wipers, power folding heated mirrors, LED headlight a and a memory system that remembers the driver's favorite settings for everything. The 230i can be equipped with either Sport Line or M Sport upgrades, which add features like larger wheels, rear spoiler, improved suspension calibration and more.
The 2-Series' infotainment system comes with 6.5 touchscreen, six-speaker sound system, SiriusXM satellite radio, voice-activated navigation, USB port, Apple CarPlay compatibility, USB port and three 12v power sockets.
The M240i comes better equipped, starting of course with the stronger engine. Other features on the M240i include bigger brakes, 18-inch alloy wheels, power lumbar front seating, a sports instrument cluster and dynamic cruise control.
Optional items on the 2-Series include leather seating surfaces, satellite radio, heated seats, a moonroof, a Harman/Kardon premium sound system and concierge services. Packages include a driver assistance package with a rear-facing camera, as well as a technology package, which includes a navigation system with real-time traffic updates and access to BMW apps. A Track Handling Package adds Adaptive M Suspension, variable sport steering, M Sport brakes and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
The 2-Series convertibles in both 230i and M240i guise are equipped similarly to their coupe counterparts, with a power-operated top that takes just 20 seconds to raise or lower.
Safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability/traction control and several airbags. The BMW 2-Series also comes standard with an emergency request system that will activate in the event of an accident. The system comes with a 10-year subscription.
Sporty
Compact
Fun To Drive
Rear-wheel Drive Or All-wheel Drive Availability
European Feel
Convertible Option
For 2021, the BMW 2-series remains essentially unchanged while a new generation 2-series is anticipated for 2022.
The BMW 2-Series is a sporty luxury compact that competes with other small European cars such as the Audi A3, the MINI Cooper and the Mercedes CLA. The BMW 2-Series, however, is significantly sportier than its competitors and features better handling and a more hardcore, driver-oriented demeanor. The BMW 2-Series offers a nice compromise between an all-out sports car and a sophisticated German compact.
