BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe M235i xDrive 2021 Review

Increasingly sophisticated safety systems and expanding creature comforts make for passenger cars that grow faster than well-funded tech startups. And few automakers know the sweet-spot between sizes like BMW. The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is a textbook case, with tidy dimensions that echo the design of classic 3 Series sedans from the 1980s and 1990s.

Along with its sporty and nimble size, the 2 Series Gran Coupe (the name indicates its fastback-style sloping roof) offers an attractive entry-level luxury price. But that doesn't make it a budget Bimmer. While it's based on a Mini Cooper platform to save costs, the 2 Series Gran Coupe offers the performance, technology and refinement we've come to expect of the brand. It's also well suited to compete in a growing class of entry-luxury models, including the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Audi A3 and Cadillac CT4 also solid choices. Read our Expert Rating to get our team's take on this sporty new luxury compact.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe comes in three versions: 228i, 228i xDrive and the high-performance M235i xDrive. Front-wheel drive is standard on the 228i, while the other two trim levels use xDrive, BMW's name for all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on all three models.

228i This entry trim comes well equipped with standard features, highlights including:

• Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (228 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque)
• Eight-speed automatic transmission
• 17-inch wheels
• LED headlights
• Power-adjustable front sport seats
• Simulated leather upholstery
• Dual-zone automatic climate control

Technology and safety features include:

• Digital instrument cluster
• 8.8-inch central touchscreen
• Integrated navigation system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Satellite and HD radio
• 10-speaker sound system
• Automatic high beams
• Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
• Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
• Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
• Front and rear parking sensors

228i xDrive Same as the 228i but with all-wheel drive.

M235i xDrive This performance-oriented trim adds more power and features such as:

• Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (301 hp, 331 lb-ft)
• 18-inch wheels
• Sport-tuned suspension and more powerful brakes
• Electronic limited-slip differential (helps improve traction when accelerating)
• Aerodynamic appearance package
• Leather upholstery
• Ambient interior lighting

The 228i and M235i can be further equipped with packages and stand-alone features including:

• Convenience package
• Panoramic roof
• Keyless entry

• Premium package
• Heated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Head-up display
• Live Cockpit Pro (10.25-inch touchscreen among other tech upgrades)
• Adaptive LED headlights
• Keyless entry
• Panoramic roof
• Ambient cabin lighting

• Driving Assistance package
• Automated self-parking system
• Traffic-adaptive cruise control (maintains driver-set distance between the BMW and the car in front)

• Wireless smartphone charging
• Harman Kardon surround-sound system
• M Sport package (228i only): 18-inch wheels, adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes
• 19-inch wheels (M235i only)
• M Sport front seats (M235i only)