2015 BMW 2 series: Serious style in small package

A photo illustration of BMW's new 2 series sedan. Credit: BMW

By MALCOLM GUNNWheelbasemediaApril 4, 2014

BMW knows exactly how to position its latest 2-series Coupe.

A photo on the automaker's Web site shows the car running neck and neck with the iconic 2002 coupe that was produced from 1968-'76. It's a comparison worth pondering as the 2002 was a benchmark sporty car - a pure one at that - for the company.

An even more interesting comparison is with the new 2014 4-series coupe. Both models offer the same powertrains, but the 2-series base price is $8,400 cheaper, starting at $33,000. The smaller 2-series is also close to 200 pounds lighter, which should make it quicker off the line and more nimble.

The 4-series does offer more cabin space than the 2-series and the 4 can be had with BMW's x-Drive all-wheel-drive system that's ideal for anyone making frequent excursions to the ski slopes. Still, driving enthusiasts on a budget or who prefer a more minimalist approach to tackling twisty back roads are likely to find the 2-series fits their needs like a well-worn pair of driving gloves.

Although similar to the outgoing 1-series coupe, the 2-series is actually more than two inches longer, an inch wider and it has a bit more space between the front and rear wheels. Thankfully, the dimensional enlargements are minimal, but the revised shape of the 2-series, especially a more elongated nose, revised roofline and rear deck, result in a more attractive shape.

For die-hard BMW spotters, the larger grille and lower air intakes are the most noticeable ways to tell if the basic Bimmer you're checking out is a 2 or a 1.

It might be even more difficult to spot the differences from the inside, since the dashboards, control panels, floor consoles and dash-mounted display screens on both old and new appear quite similar. To the 2-series, however, BMW did add a bit more trim and enlarged the iDrive controller knob (that adjusts the climate, audio and communications systems) for easier use.

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For stashing your gear, the trunk is slightly larger than that of the 1-series and the back seat can be split-folded for extra space.

Under the hood of the base 228i is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It's the same engine that powers several other BMW models, including the base 4-series Coupe. The base engine in the 1-series was a non-turbo 230-horsepower four-cylinder.

Step up to the M235i Coupe and your right foot controls a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque.

Either engine can be had with an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift controls, or, for the same money, a six-speed manual gearbox.

BMW claims the 228i will hit 60 mph from rest in 5.4 seconds. That's not exactly sedate, but the M235i can top that with an elapsed time of 4.8 seconds.

If fuel economy is an issue, the 228i is rated at 23 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway (way up from 20/28 for the 128i). The M235i's numbers are 22 city and 32 highway. Note that both models require premium fuel.

Just because the 228i is the base 2-series, it's not a stripped-down model. Standard equipment includes climate control, auto stop/start function, multi-adjustable (non-power) front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a premium audio system.

The M235i ratchets up the performance content with a tighter suspension, sport bucket seats, firmer steering and a launch-control program that ensures rapid off-the-line starts with minimal wheel spin.

Of course the option bin is tempting, but could inflate either model's base price into 4-series Coupe territory if you're not careful.

Ultimately, what's neat about the 2-series is that it's the least expensive way to obtain a BMW, yet you're virtually guaranteed to get the same kick for your money as with many of the company's pricier products. Talk about driving a bargain.

What you should know: 2014 BMW 2-series Coup
Type: Two-door, rear-wheel-drive four-passenger coupe
Engines (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (240);
3.0-liter DOHC I6, turbocharged (320)
Transmissions: Eight-speed automatic; six-speed manual (opt.)
Market position: The 2-series will interest buyers who enjoy performance-oriented automobiles but aren't blessed with an abundance of funds. What it lacks in practicality the 2-series makes make up for in style and driving fun.
Points: Conversion of coupe to 2- from 1-series status includes more attractive design and more power; Base four-cylinder engine focuses on fuel economy; 320-horsepower six-cylinder offers significant performance advantage; No M model or convertible in sight yet, but an X2 wagon is on its way; The spirit of the old "BMW 2002" lives on in the 2-series.
Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; front-knee airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control.
MPG (city/hwy) 23/36 (2.0, AT): Base price (incl. destination) $33,000