2022 BMW 2 Series

With each generation, the BMW 3 Series sedan (and the related 4 Series coupe) has gotten bigger. The once entry-level Bimmer grew to the point that BMW had room to slot a new, more compact model beneath it. Enter the 2 Series, a rear-wheel-drive coupe about the size the 3 Series was 30 years ago. The 2 Series marked a return to form for the Bavarian automaker, offering exceptional performance in a just-right-sized package.

Things got confusing when BMW expanded the lineup with the 2 Series Gran Coupe, a front-wheel-drive hatchback sedan that shared practically nothing in common with the 2 Series coupe besides its name. Thankfully, BMW made the right choice in keeping the 2 Series coupe rear-wheel-drive for its second generation that debuts for 2022. Somewhat discouragingly, this new 2 Series also grows in size and weight, though there's more available power to provide some consolation.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series coupe — the convertible has been discontinued — is available in two trim levels at launch: 230i and M240i xDrive. The base 230i's turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate thrust with 255 horsepower on tap, but performance junkies will want the 382 horsepower and all-wheel-drive grip of the M240i. That model has a stability control system that inspires confidence at the limit while still letting you have some fun once in a while.

Being rear-drive-based, the BMW 2 Series coupe is kind of in its own class, but nevertheless it competes with front-drive-based entry-luxe offerings such as the Audi A3 and S3 and Mercedes-Benz CLA. Read our test team's Expert Rating to see how the new 2 Series stacks up and whether BMW has been able to keep its small car magic alive.

The 2 Series is one of the smallest luxury cars on the road today. That small size contributes to the 2 Series' nimble handling and quick acceleration. It's a fun car to drive. However, rear seat space and trunk space are poor. As long as you're OK with the trade-off, there's not another luxury car at this price that offers what you'll find with the BMW 2 Series.

How does the 2 Series drive? This is what we want from a BMW. Overall handling and performance are excellent, though it should be noted that our 230i test car was equipped with the M Sport bits (suspension, steering, brakes and rear differential) as well as summer tires. We recorded a 0-60 mph sprint of 5.5 seconds. That's quicker than the Audi A3 or Mercedes-Benz CLA 250, and we expect the M240i will be similarly competitive with the Audi S3/RS 3 and AMG versions of the CLA. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes excellent low-range and midrange power, though it loses steam a bit toward the top of the rev band. It feels plenty strong around town or on the highway.

Braking and handling are nearly as impressive. The M Sport suspension helps keep body motions well in check, with only a mild amount of roll at the limit. The M Sport differential does an excellent job of managing traction, though the 230i will elicit a slide if you coax it. Braking was excellent, stopping from 60 mph in a scant 107 feet at our test track. The brakes are also easy to control when you're on the street.

The main disappointment here is the car's steering feel. It's weighted pretty well, but there's next to no feedback available to give you a sense of the front tires on the road.

How comfortable is the 2 Series? The 2 Series coupe isn't the most comfortable compact on the road, but we'd say the ride quality and overall refinement are about what we expect from a sporty coupe. The optional M Sport suspension obviously firms things up, but overall it strikes a decent balance between comfort and performance.

The front seats don't offer a huge amount of adjustment, but they're supportive and well padded. The heated seats and steering wheel work well, too, and we like that BMW continues to use dedicated physical controls for much of the climate control system.

How’s the interior? This is a small car, so everything is within easy reach. The driving position is excellent and operating the controls is straightforward. It makes driving the 2 Series with vigor all that more engaging. And despite the 2 Series' small proportions, blind spots are actually relatively minimal thanks to upright windows and unobtrusive roof pillars.

The 2 Series is relatively spacious, at least for front passengers. There's plenty of headroom, legroom and shoulder room. But the rear seat is a joke and won't be comfortable for adults, even on shorter drives. Even getting in the back requires some gymnastics most adults simply won't, or can't, perform. This is odd considering the previous-generation 2 Series had a roomier rear seat yet was a shorter car overall.

How’s the tech? The 2 Series doesn't offer anything exceptional or outstanding in the technology department, but that shouldn't be a knock. BMW's infotainment system isn't the most straightforward system we've ever used, though controls for media, navigation and high-level settings are all easy to access. The 2 Series comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration as well as a wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports. The optional Harman Kardon audio system is excellent, with lots of clarity and well-rounded bass even at high volumes.

How’s the storage? The 2 Series offers a decent amount of cargo space given its small size. The 10-cubic-foot trunk is a bit less than what you get from the Audi A3 or Mercedes CLA but is reasonably usable. Storage in the 2 Series coupe's cabin is good, too, with a decent-size armest bin and door pockets. Access to the wireless charging pad for your phone is partially blocked by the car's gear selector, however.

The 2 Series has anchors for a car seat, but actually getting either a seat or a child in the rear is going to be awkward and cumbersome. The seats do slide forward, but there's only so much room to work with in the back seat of a coupe. If you regularly have rear passengers of any size, the 2 Series may not be for you.

How’s the fuel economy? The 230i gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in combined city/highway driving. We got 31 mpg on our 115-mile mixed-driving test route, which is excellent for this class of car and indicates the EPA's numbers are realistic.