MyAutoUpdates

Overview

Compact luxury coupes are a fading breed, but BMW refuses to go quietly, the 2-series coupe carrying the flame into the current day. While the M2, its more extroverted sister, holds down the ultimate performance place, the 2-series shows a more balanced personality but still gives the heightened levels of steering, braking, and performance the brand is known for. Two grades are offered, the 230i and M240i, each with an option of rear or all-wheel drive. The 230i employs a 255-hp turbocharged inline-four that's shared with the Toyota Supra 2.0, while the M240i, which is not a real "M" model but a "M Sport" version, ramps up performance with a 382-hp turbocharged inline-six. Regardless of the naming system, both 2-series models make the most of their compact proportions and quick powertrains to give the sort of driving experience that takes the monotony out of the daily commute. Disappointingly, a manual transmission is no longer offered, yet even in its absence the flexible and enjoyable 2-series earned a position on our 2024 Editors' Choice list. Yes, the 2-series shares a touch of BMW's contentious modern style concept, but its influence on the 2-series is more reserved than some of the bigger models and the bulk of the bodywork is straight-up classic coupe. The 2025 2-Series receives no major appearance-altering alterations, although there are a few new exterior color choices and wheels. Otherwise, the 2-series maintains the same bar-setting blend of comfort and performance with a fair level of interior embellishments. If the 2-series fulfills the requirements but reality requires a four-door, you may check out the four-door 2-series Gran Coupe, although it employs a front-drive chassis and doesn't give the same degree of driver engagement and reward

What's New for 2025?

2025 BMW 2 Series

The major news is the introduction iDrive 8.5, the latest iteration of BMW's infotainment software, which is accompanied by enhanced interior ambient lighting. There's also a new M Sport Professional Package—not to be confused with the previously and concurrently available M Sport package—brings M Shadow Line lights, a M rear spoiler in black, and M Sport brakes (standard on M240i models) with red or blue brake calipers on 230i models and red calipers on M240i models. Exterior colors now include two new metallic tones Vegas Red metallic and Skyscraper Grey metallic. Zandvoort Blue, traditionally reserved solely for the M2, is now an option for the M240i. New 19-inch wheel styles enter the choices list; M double-spoke wheels in either a bi-color or Jet Black finish, and Y-spoke wheels in a bi-color finish. Interior modifications include new steering wheels, a two-spoke wheel for the 230i, and a new M leather flat-bottomed steering wheel as standard on the M240i and available on the 230i. Brushed aluminum trim is standard on the 240i, while carbon fiber is optional; open-pore wood is available on both.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 230i contains a 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and the M240i has a 382-hp turbo 3.0-liter inline-six. The 230i and M240i are also offered with rear- and all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic is the sole gearbox choice. Those looking to squeeze the most performance out of the 230i will want to choose the M Sport and Dynamic Handling packages that together include 19-inch wheels on performance tires, a sportier suspension, upgraded brakes, a variable-ratio steering system, and an electronically controlled rear differential. Most of these goods and more come standard on the M240i; so equipped, it draws a sharper bead on the performance paradigm and deliverers more BMW-style features. But like many of the newer Bimmers, we wish it had greater steering feel.

0–60-MPH Times

During our test of the 230i, it hit 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and a quarter-mile in 13.7 seconds at 101 mph. When we evaluated the 240i , we were delighted by its ability to leap off the line and achieve 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The rear-drive, four-cylinder 230i is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the interstate; add all-wheel drive and the values decrease to 25 and 33 respectively. The rear-wheel drive, six-cylinder M240i is rated at 23 mpg city and 32 highway, going all-wheel drive takes just 1 mpg in the city rating. During our 75-mph fuel-economy test, the rear-drive 230i earned 38 mpg, substantially exceeding its EPA estimate. For more information regarding the 2-series's fuel efficiency, see the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

2025 BMW 2 Series

Although BMW's interior design language isn't innovative, it is improved by the exceptional build quality and comfortable ergonomics. Inside, the 2-series adopts the company's ubiquitous style and layout. BMW's Live Cockpit Plus technology is standard on the 2 Series, integrating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The seats, while pleasant, should give additional support for truly passionate driving situations. Also, despite an increase in total length and breadth over the previous generation, including a wheelbase that's lengthened by 2.0 inches, the coupe's back seat has less headroom and legroom than the model it replaces.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2-series' infotainment system functions through a standard 14.9-inch touchscreen display, running iDrive 8.5, the newest version of BMW's native infotainment software, which is new for 2025. We have mixed views regarding BMW's choice to abolish the physical HVAC, seat, and steering wheel heat buttons and merge them into the infotainment screen but will hold judgment until we experience the new 2-series. BMW emphasizes out they are also operational by voice Command. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are offered, as is 10-speaker audio. A head-up display is offered as part of the Premium package. using either a basic 8.8-inch touchscreen or an optional 10.3-inch device. Every model offers a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10-speaker audio. Those who desire a more powerful sound system can upgrade to a 14-speaker, 464-watt Harman Kardon arrangement.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Along with an assortment of standard driver-assistance technologies that includes blind-spot monitoring, every 2-series is fitted with front and rear parking sensors. It may also be optioned with a self-parking assist that can autonomously park it in or out of parallel or perpendicular places.

For additional information regarding the 2-series's crash-test results, see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety elements include: