Five things you might not know about the new 2 Series and M235i
1. It’s a spiritual successor to the BMW 2002
The 2002 coupe was the car that really put BMW on the map. It took the slogan ‘sheer driving pleasure’ and turned it from a marketing ploy into an experience for a whole new target audience to enjoy.
The 2002 was not only very pretty to look at, but it was fun to drive as well.
And because it was a coupe with quite practical rear seats it wasn’t too difficult to convince the lady of the house into thinking that buying one was a good idea.
The later 2002 Turbo was also the first turbocharged production car to come from a European manufacturer – according to BMW at least, this topic is quite complicated as almost every European maker seems to think that they were first to use turbos…
2. It has launch control
Along with the eight-speed automatic gearbox in the M235i comes a launch control feature which you don’t get in the M135i hatch. Here’s a demo…
3. There’s an optional limited slip differential
There isn’t a whole lot wrong with the M135i on which the M235i is based. But one of the main complaints has been the lack of a proper mechanical limited slip differential.
But now with the M235i you’ll be able to option one, which should come in handy when you’re driving, um, exuberantly (doing skids).
4. The M235i is the most powerful petrol-powered M Performance Automobile model and is faster than the E46 M3.
Because the M235i’s 3.0liter straight six engine produces 326hp, while its M135i hatchback sibling makes do with a measly 320hp, the new coupe is the most powerful petrol-powered M Performance Automobile available.
With a 0-62mph time of 4.8 seconds the new M235i is also quicker by four tenths of a second to sixty-two than the E46 M3.
Both cars are electronically limited to a top speed of 155mph.
5. It shares no body panels with the 1 Series hatch
While the 2 Series might share a platform with the slightly dorky looking 1 Series hatch, absolutely none of the body panels are shared.
Well, except for the door mirrors and the door handles… Oh, the M235i’s wheels are also shared with the M135i. But that’s it!