6 Things Consumer Reports Loves About the 2022 BMW 2 Series
The 2022 BMW 2 Series might be a compact car, but that doesn’t mean it has less to offer. The 2 Series just entered its second generation, so we’ve been eager to see how its redesign has affected its performance. It looks like Consumer Reports was impressed: Here are six things the site likes about this affordable luxury car.
1. The 2022 BMW 2 Series boasts fast acceleration
The BMW 2 Series coupe comes standard with a turbo-four engine making 255 hp and 294 lb-ft of torque. Three other engines are available, with the biggest harnessing 382 hp. Each comes paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
While driving the base 230i coupe, Consumer Reports clocked a 6.4-second 0-to-60-mph time. That’s an impressive split given the vehicle’s curb weight of 3,440 pounds and the engine’s relatively modest horsepower (by sports car standards). The base trim’s top speed ranges from 130 to 155 mph, CR testers say.
2. It has reliable brakes with short stopping distances
According to Consumer Reports, the BMW 2 Series coupe can come to a complete stop from 60 mph in 128 feet. On wet pavement, it needs only 11 extra feet of stopping distance. When testing last year’s model, CR reported the brakes were also easy to control.
If you buy the M240i xDrive Coupe, you’ll get a set of optimized M Sport brakes and a slew of other racing enhancements. This model also comes with the most powerful engine and all-wheel drive.
3. It provides amazing handling and dynamics for an engaging drive
BMW retuned the 2022 2 Series’ suspension with lighter parts, which CR says will improve its handling. An adaptive suspension is standard on the M240i models.
Though Consumer Reports hasn’t disclosed many details about the 2022 model’s road test performance, CR loved the 2021 model’s driving dynamics. In that review, testers praised the coupe’s nearly instantaneous steering and throttle responses. Its avoidance maneuver capabilities are also slightly better for 2022.
On CR’s test track, the car could suddenly swerve to avoid hitting traffic cones at 56 mph. As with last year’s model, drivers can also customize their new 2 Series with comfort or sport-focused driving modes.
4. The 2022 BMW 2 Series has astoundingly good fuel economy
The BMW 2 Series earned 31 mpg combined city/highway during CR’s real-world driving test. The 230i actually exceeded its EPA-estimated mileage on the highway, earning 45 mpg instead of 35.
You can expect slightly lower mileage if you option your 2 Series with AWD or the six-cylinder engine. However, even the 240i xDrive is more efficient than most sports cars, earning 26 mpg combined.
5. It comes with cozy front seats
The 2022 BMW 2 Series has standard sports seats with plush, supportive leather upholstery. The front seats also come with memory settings and power-adjustability levers.
This car grew nearly three inches wider this year, and its length increased by 4.3 inches. Unfortunately, CR says the back row is still cramped for more than two passengers. The car also has a small trunk, but at least the split-folding rear seats make it more versatile.
6. The 2022 BMW 2 Series’ fit and finish are superb
CR loved the new look of the BMW 2 Series’ grille and interior presentation. It boasts premium dashboard and seat materials and an intuitive center stack layout.
BMW also added some infotainment upgrades, including the Intelligent Personal Assistant. This function allows you to adjust virtually any control with a simple voice command, reducing distracted driving.
The upgraded Live Cockpit replaces the analog gauge cluster with a 12.3-inch digital screen. It’s split into three sections: speed stats, multimedia, and fuel economy/performance diagnostics. CR also appreciates the abundant safety features and wireless smartphone integration.
