The entry-level 2 Series Gran Coupe rides on a front-wheel-drive-based platform that’s less performance-oriented than most BMWs. But this new little sedan can still put a grin on a driver’s face when the road gets twisty. Be aware that the ride is stiff and that the rear seat is better for carrying kids and preteens than adults.
The standard 228-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine feels well-matched to the car’s size, delivering strong, predictable power through a responsive and quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine is extremely smooth, with a subdued sound quality—two traits many turbo four-cylinders can’t claim. Fuel economy was 27 mpg overall on premium fuel, which, although not bad, is oddly 2 mpg behind the larger 330i xDrive, which we also tested.
The 2 Series Gran Coupe is a willing, confidence-inspiring partner on curvy roads. It feels eager to tackle corners and the taut suspension gives a high degree of driver confidence through turns. It was only during our avoidance maneuver—a test that duplicates a sudden swerve to avoid an object in the road—that the car felt a bit clumsy, exposing its front-wheel-drive-based roots. The suspension skews firmer than most BMWs, transmitting many bumps and road imperfections into the cabin. Interior sound insulation is good for the entry-level luxury class, with muted levels of wind and engine noise, although there is noticeable tire noise over coarse pavement.
The cabin isn’t flashy or overly fancy, but most materials have a high-quality feel. That’s impressive, considering this is intended to be an entry-level model. The front seats are snug yet comfortable. The rear seat is tight, as is typical for this class. Average-sized adults will have scant foot room underneath the front seats and might feel their head hitting the roof. Most controls are easy to use, but some audio and climate tasks require wading through menus—rather than just a quick button-push—via a control knob on the center console or the touch screen.
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, and lane departure warning all come standard. Lane keeping assistance is not available.