2022 BMW 230i Coupe: A Closer Look

CAR FRONT

The BMW 2-Series has been updated with more power and slight styling change.

Photos by Chad Haire

CAR REAR

With bright red paint, this car is an attention-getter on the street.

ENGINE

Under the hood is a turbocharged four-banger. Horsepower has increased from 248 to 255. It is hooked to a slick 8-speed automatic gearbox. The 0-60 time is about 5.5 seconds. The fuel economy is claimed to be 26/35 mpg.

ECONOMY

In the real world, fuel economy in heavy city traffic was 24 mpg, with 31 observed on a 125-mile highway trip where plenty of brisk driving was done. But in normal mixed commuting, we got 26/28 mpg. On a 120 highway ride, with the cruise control locked, we observed over 40 mpg! This is a sweet motor that is well-engineered. A more powerful 382 horsepower six-cylinder turbo is offered for extra money.

PADDLES

Paddle shifters are on the steering wheel and allow for choosing gears manually.

CONTROL KNOB

The newer info control knob is easier to use than the older I-drive units used years ago. The learning curve is short.

GRILLE

The traditional BMW kidney-shaped grille is still used. The slats open and close depending on the outside temperature.

TIRES

Like most BMW vehicles, the tires issued are run-flats. If punctured, they should allow for about 35 miles on driving to the nearest repair station. Their stiff sidewalls provide a noisy ride, so many owners swap these out for traditional rubber.

TRUNK

There is no spare tire issued. The small 10 cubic feet of the trunk has room for a compact spare and jack that can be ordered from the dealer for about $700.

HEADLIGHTS

This car came with LED headlights, part of a $2,900 option package. These are the best lights we have ever seen on a vehicle, and worth every penny.

POV

This is a fun car to drive. It's quick, handles like a champ, looks great, and is easy on gas if driven normally.

SEATS

BMW has some of the best seats in the industry. They are great for long trips.

PRICE

The base price of a 2-Series is reasonable. But as can be seen, options can jack the fee up. Still, it’s a nice ride and worth the coin.