The 2024 BMW 2-series Gran Coupe is positioned as a budget-friendly option for customers looking to enter the luxury car market. While it may not be cheap, the Gran Coupe does have some compromises due to its shared underpinnings with Mini. As a result, it comes standard with front-wheel drive, with the option to upgrade to all-wheel drive.
One area where the Gran Coupe falls short is in its handling. The front-wheel-drive platform lacks the confident feel that BMW’s 2- and 3-series sedans are known for. Despite this, the Gran Coupe does offer playful handling. The turbocharged four-cylinder engines in both the 228i and M235i models deliver respectable power, but they don’t feel as stable or as exciting as their larger siblings.
On the inside, the Gran Coupe features upscale appointments that are in line with other BMW models. The cabin compares favorably with premium competitors like the Acura Integra and Audi A3. However, the overall feel of the 2-series Gran Coupe is that it’s a car built to a price rather than a car built to be great.
For the 2024 model year, there are no changes to the BMW 2-series Gran Coupe. The model carries over with only a slight price increase. As for pricing and which model to buy, driving enthusiasts may prefer the M235i, but most buyers will be satisfied with the base 228i Gran Coupe. The recommended option to add is the Convenience package, which includes keyless entry, driver’s-side lumbar support, and a panoramic sunroof.
Both the 228i and M235i Gran Coupe models come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The 228i produces 228 horsepower, while the M235i delivers 301 horses. The M235i comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the 228i offers it as an option. Both models come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of fuel economy, the 228i xDrive Gran Coupe has an EPA rating of 23 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. In real-world testing, it achieved an impressive 37 mpg on a 200-mile highway fuel-economy loop. The M235i has nearly identical ratings to the 228i.
Inside the Gran Coupe, the cabin styling is similar to other modern BMWs. It features a simple, handsome design that is driver-focused. Rear-seat legroom is said to be nearly the same as the larger 3-series sedan, but the cabin feels snug for both front and rear passengers. The small cargo area is sufficient for everyday use and weekend road trips, and the rear seat can be folded down for larger items.
The infotainment system in the Gran Coupe includes a 10.3-inch reconfigurable digital gauge display and a dashboard-mounted 10.3-inch touchscreen. Standard features include navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Optional extras include a wireless smartphone charging pad and a Harman Kardon stereo system.
In terms of safety, the 2-series Gran Coupe comes with BMW’s Active Driving Assistant, which includes a suite of driver-assistance features to reduce the likelihood of accidents. Crash-test results can be found on the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
BMW offers a warranty package that matches what its European rivals provide and includes three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance. The warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles, while the scheduled maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles.
Overall, the 2024 BMW 2-series Gran Coupe offers a budget-friendly entry into the luxury car market, although it comes with some compromises. Its handling and power may not be as exhilarating as its larger siblings, but it still delivers a comfortable and upscale driving experience.