2023 BMW 2 Series

Pros

• Easy to understand
• A powerful engine with six cylinders that is easy to find
• Opulent interior

Cons

• The back seat is too full
• Ride that doesn’t bend

The way the 2 Series is driven. You would expect this from a BMW. Even though our test 230i had an M Sport suspension, steering, brakes, rear differential, and summer tires, the handling and performance were still very good. From 0 to 60 mph took us 5.5 seconds. That’s faster than the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 or the Audi A3, and we expect the M240i to compete with the Audi S3/RS 3 and the AMG CLA versions. The four-cylinder turbocharged engine has enough power at low and mid-range speeds but could be better at high rates. It has enough power to be used on the highway or in the city.

Braking and steering are almost as good. The M Sport suspension helps keep the body from moving around too much, so there is little roll at the limit. Even though you can get the 230i to slide, the M Sport differential does a great job of keeping traction in check. On our test track, it only took 107 feet to stop from 60 miles per hour. This was because the brakes were so good. When you’re going down the road, using the brakes is easy.

The most disappointing thing about this situation is how the car feels to steer. Even though it is well-balanced, it doesn’t give you much feedback about how the front tires are doing on the road.

How well does the 2 Series feel? Even though it’s not the most comfortable small car on the road, the 2 Series coupe has a good ride and is well-made overall. This is about what we’d expect from a sports coupe. Overall, the M Sport suspension option balances comfort and performance, even though it makes the ride firmer.

Even though there aren’t many ways to customize the front seats, they are comfortable and sturdy. We like that BMW keeps most of the climate controls as separate knobs. The heated seats and steering wheel also work well.

How does the inside look? Everything is easy to get to because this is a small car. The controls are simple to use, and the driving stance is excellent. This adds to the excitement of accelerating the 2 Series. The vertical windows and unobtrusive roof pillars of the 2 Series also contribute to the fact that, despite the vehicle’s compact proportions, blind spots are relatively small.

At least for people sitting in the front, the 2 Series has enough space. Your shoulders, legs, and head all have enough room. Even on short trips, the back seat is useless and can’t fit an adult. Even getting into the back requires some gymnastics that most adults will not or are unable to perform. This is odd, given the previous 2 Series had a more spacious back seat despite being a shorter car overall.

How good is the tech? Regarding technology, the 2 Series has little to offer, but that doesn’t always mean it’s terrible. Even though the controls for music, navigation, and high-level settings are all easy to find, the BMW infotainment system isn’t the easiest one we’ve ever used. Among standard features, the 2 Series offers many USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Even at the highest level, the optional Harman Kardon audio system sounds great, with a lot of clarity and full bass.

What about putting things away? Even though the 2 Series is small, it can carry a lot of stuff. The trunk is smaller than the Audi A3 or Mercedes CLA, but still valid. The interior of the 2 Series coupe is also well-organized, with door pockets and a large armrest bin. Yet, the vehicle’s gear selector partially obstructs access to the wireless charging pad for your phone.

There are car seat anchors in the 2 Series, but putting a car seat or child in the back will be hard. Even though the back seats of a coupe can slide forward, there is only so much room. If you routinely transport passengers in the back of any size vehicle, the 2 Series may be for someone else.

How well does it use gasoline? The EPA says the 230i gets a combined 29 mpg in the city and highway. On our 115-mile mixed-driving test route, we got 31 mpg, which is excellent for this type of car and backs up the EPA’s estimates.

Should I go ahead and purchase a BMW 2 Series? The two-door 2 Series coupe stands out a lot. The Lexus RC, Audi A5, and BMW 4 Series are all other luxury coupes that are either bigger or don’t have a back seat (Toyota GR Supra, Porsche Cayman). All of these are much more expensive. Although cheaper than the 2 Series, the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro do not have the same high-end feel. Overall, this is an excellent place to spend your money.

The average in its class, BMW’s basic and powertrain warranties last for four years and 50,000 miles. The 2 Series also comes with more excellent warranties than many other automakers, with roadside assistance lasting four years and unlimited miles and routine maintenance visits lasting three years and 36,000 miles.

Even though the steering could be more precise, the 2 Series seems quick because of its size. Even though it’s not the fastest BMW on the road, it’s just as fun to drive as some of its bigger brothers and sisters. The design is also better than other new BMW models because it is not as flashy.

The M240i xDrive is the best example of how sporty the 2 Series can be. This small coupe is a strong performer and lively enough that most drivers won’t need to upgrade to the new M2. It has an all-wheel drive and an M Sport differential.