We’ve been learning everything we can about the new BMW 230i while driving it all over North Carolina. The 2022 BMW 230i shines in heavily trafficked downtown city areas, on the highway, and up curvy mountain roads. However, the BMW 2 Series isn’t perfect. 

1. PRO: How much does the 2022 BMW 230i cost? 

The 2022 BMW 230i price starts at $36,350, which is surprisingly cheap for the BMW 2 Series. The M240I XDrive increases the price to $50,895. So, you can get a luxury car with an excellent performance without breaking the bank. 

Plus, the standard model is well-equipped. It has simulated leather upholstery, 18-inch wheels, a 10-speaker audio system, a digital gauge cluster, a navigation system, dual-zone climate control, and more. It’s value-packed. 

2. PRO: Cargo space 

The tiny but mighty BMW 230i has more cargo space in the trunk than expected. It features up to 13.8 cubic feet of cargo space. You wouldn’t know that from simply looking at it, but popping the trunk introduces you to plenty of room. 

We estimate that four or five crates of water can fit back there. Then the seats fold down, providing access to more space if needed. Wo people can store their bags for a road trip. Well, that depends on if they overpack or not. 

3. PRO: The M Sport package is worth it 

Our 2022 BMW 230i tester is equipped with the M Sport Package for $3,250. It’s a small price to pay to increase this vehicle’s performance. The package includes an M Sport differential, M Sport brakes with attractive red calipers, variable sport steering, and the M sport suspension. 

You also get an anthracite headliner, ambient lighting, 19″ double spoke bi-color 79 wheels, black high gloss interior trim, and the Shadowline exterior trim. So, it makes the coupe more engaging, attractive, and luxurious. 

4. PRO: The 230i is fun 

It’s hard not to smile while driving the BMW 2 Series. It has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. According to Edmunds, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds. 

The 230i corners well and feels well-planted around sharp curves. The M sport suspension manages traction well to bolster your confidence. We didn’t slide once. Also, it’s agile with predictable brakes, and you can feel how well the tires are connected with the road. 

Any excuse to take the BMW 230i for a spin is a great one. 

5: PRO: The tech is impressive 

The BMW 230i has an 8.8-inch touchscreen that can be upgraded to a 10.3-inch unit. The graphics look great, and the system works very quickly. Plus, the voice recognition software is easy to use. 

We didn’t use the M Sport lap timer, but we appreciate that as a unique feature. Plus, the head-up display has a sporty gauge. You get a wireless phone charging pad with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto too. 

The center console has buttons for shortcuts, and adjusting the vehicle’s settings is pretty simple. You can view your fuel usage or adjust the height of the head-up display in a matter of seconds. 

1. CON: Highway noise 

The 2022 BMW 230i is a little louder than expected at highway speeds. Wind and tire noise are a bit hard to ignore until you cover it up with the premium audio system. Sections of grooved pavement on the highway are incredibly loud. 

However, the engine is pretty quiet and peaceful. You do hear an occasional roar, but it sounds irresistible. 

2. CON: the backseat is so small 

The BMW 230i has a backseat, but we aren’t sure who it’s for. When adults sit in the front, there’s hardly any leg space. It took me back to being 98 pounds and climbing out of a 1998 Mustang because I was the only kid that could fit back there. 

But there does seem to be enough room for smaller child seats. Perhaps it’s designed for infants to chill in style. Also, you could probably fit four duffle bags in the rear. 

3. The BMW 230i has firm seats 

The BMW 230i has bucket seats with plenty of blistering to hold you in place. However, they lack padding. After a six-hour road trip, our rear ends were sore. On a positive note, the seats work well ergonomically. We felt energized after our road trip. 

Plus, the seats have plenty of adjustments. You can quickly find the perfect driving or riding position. The height adjustment may seem limited for shorter folks around 5’1″. 

Stay tuned for our 230i BMW review. We will go over all the specs, including the good and the bad.