The sport-loving variant of BMW's 2 Series, the M235i distills the renowned virtues of the brand's high-performance M models down to the smallest coupe in the portfolio. The result is a reasonably priced luxury four-seater that performs with the precision and gusto of a dedicated sports car.
What's New for 2015
The M235i convertible debuts, and coupes can now be equipped with all-wheel drive.
Choosing Your BMW M235i
The M235i is powered by a turbocharged 3-liter six-cylinder that delivers 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Like the rest of the BMW lineup, coupes can now get the xDrive all-wheel drive system. An eight-speed automatic transmission with launch control comes standard, and a six-speed manual is available on rear-drive models at no cost. The M235i carries an adaptive suspension, a sport-tuned steering setup, performance-spec brakes and a sport exhaust system. A mechanical limited-slip rear differential is optional.
Other sport-oriented features include an aerodynamic body kit, summer performance tires on 18-inch wheels, aluminum interior trim and 10-way leatherette sport seats with driver memory. Coupes come standard with a sunroof, while the convertible gets a black power soft top, but you can upgrade to a brown or anthracite (dark gray) example with a metallic weave pattern. Rounding out the M235i are conveniences such as automatic wipers, Bluetooth phone and audio, and a 10-speaker sound system with HD radio.
The Premium package brings the equipment load up to expected BMW levels with a leather interior, keyless ignition, a universal garage door opener, auto-dimming mirrors and satellite radio. Heated front seats are part of the Cold Weather package, which also throws in a heated steering wheel and heated headlamp washers.
The Technology package adds a navigation system with real-time traffic data, enhanced infotainment displays and controls, and a slew of integrated smartphone apps. A rearview camera and front and rear parking sensor comprise the Driver Assistance package. Models equipped the Driver Assistance and Technology packages are eligible for Driver Assistance Plus, which adds lane departure warning and an active front collision mitigation system with pedestrian detection. An automated parallel parking system is available separately on all models, as is a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
We consider the Premium package to be rather essential in a car of this caliber, mostly because of the leather seats and keyless ignition. The Cold Weather package is especially useful on the fabric-topped convertible. By the way, the trunk holds 13.8 cubic-feet, about the same as a midsize family sedan. Who knew?