- 2015 BMW 2-Series
Even though the 2-Series slots into the 1-Series’ former position in the BMW range, there’s little chance you’d mistake one for the other.
The 2-Series exterior is smoother, sleeker, and better-proportioned in every respect. Perhaps owing to its slight increase in size, the curves, vents, and angles come together in a more graceful, artful way with the 2-Series. The mix of a relatively long hood, arched roof, and stubby tail speak to classic sports-coupe proportions, while managing to echo the look of the new 4-Series coupe at the same time.
The cabin of the 2015 BMW 2-Series is clearly driver-centric, with instruments and controls oriented for easy access. Materials look as good as they feel, and BMW offers a range of upgrades and trim lines to customize the car to the buyer’s preferences.
Two engines are available in the 2-Series: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder for the 228i, rated at 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque; and a 3.0-liter turbocharged in-line six-cylinder in the M235i that’s good for 322 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and new for the 2015 model year, xDrive all-wheel drive is available. Rear-drive models have the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or eight-speed automatic. BMW hasn’t yet revealed if the all-wheel-drive variants will be available with the manual transmission.
Despite the powerful engines and spritely acceleration, the 2-Series manages fair gas mileage in rear-drive form, with the mechanically identical 2014 models returning 22 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. In M235i form, the EPA says you should expect 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. No 2015 models, including the new all-wheel-drive models, have yet been rated by the EPA.
Performance in the 2-Series is brisk. Even the base model accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, while the M235i does the deed in 4.8 seconds. Performance specs for the all-wheel drive models haven’t yet been released. Also new for the 2015 model year is a Track Handling Package code-named ZTR. Available on both rear- and all-wheel-drive 228i models, the new package adds the Adaptive M Suspension system, variable sport steering, M Sport Brakes, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, 18-inch wheels, and revised springs that reduce ride height by 10 mm. The new Track Handling Package costs $1,600 when chosen with the M Sport or Sport Line options, or $2,200 without.
Whichever version of 2-Series you may prefer, you’ll find the cabin surprisingly spacious for a sports coupe, with ample front seat space in every dimension and a wide range of adjustability for seating and steering wheel position. The rear seat is markedly roomier than the 1-Series, but still not quite comfortable for the full range of adult body sizes. An “Easy Entry” function improves accessibility to the rear seat, however.
Cargo space is fair, if not impressive, with 13.8 cubic feet available in the trunk. The rear seats are split-folding, offering room for larger cargo when necessary. Up front you’ll find two cupholders, a glove box, and large door pockets for small-item storage.
The 2015 BMW 2-Series hasn’t yet been rated by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). And while the 2-Series doesn’t offer much advanced active-safety wizardry, or the cutting-edge technology of the brand’s full-size sedans, it does have a fair array of available high-tech equipment, including navigation with iDrive, a touch-sensitive console controller, driver assistance and connected telematics services, several advanced safety features, and a central display up to 8.8 inches wide. On the entertainment front, a Harmon Kardon HiFi audio system is available, as is Bluetooth audio streaming, app compatibility, and more.
Pricing for the 2015 BMW 2-Series starts at $33,050 for the 228i, rising $1,800 to $33,850 for the all-wheel-drive 228i xDrive. The M235i starts at $44,050, while the M235i xDrive begins at $45,850.
Photo Gallery: BMW
0 Response to "2015 BMW 2-Series"
Post a Comment