2022 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Review: Performance, Simplified

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is an everyman's Bimmer, which is to say, it probably won't appeal to the true fans of the brand. Such enthusiasts would never settle for a mere turbo-four engine and a front-wheel-drive-based platform, even if does develop up to 301 horsepower in the case of the M235i. If the standard front-wheel drivetrain isn't enough of a red flag the bulbous styling is another area of contention. It all combines in an uninspiring driving experience, even if you opt for the available all-wheel drivetrain. In a segment where four cylinders and FWD are the default from competition like the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and Audi A3, who would've thought that the BMW is the weakest driver's car of the three? Whereas the BMW lacks the undeniable performance characteristics we expect from the brand, its competitors continue to shine in their respective areas of specialization. So the question becomes, is the 2022 2 Series Gran Coupe a worthy vehicle in its own right, or is it just there to be an alternative to the Merc and Audi for all the BMW fanboys?

2022 2 Series Gran Coupe Exterior

Dimensions

2022 2 Series Gran Coupe Performance

Handling and Driving Impressions

Well, we know that the M235i has all the power it needs, but does the 2 Series have the handling dynamics to take advantage of it? Sadly, the answer is no. It simply lacks the feel that we expect from a Bimmer. It goes fast, sure, but if all you want is a go-fast sedan there are plenty of options out there that do it better. What it really needs is a driving experience that pulls you in and keeps you captivated. But, with its overly light steering and no feedback from the front end, there just isn't a sense of what the wheels are doing. This means that, no matter how sharp and accurate it is, it doesn't give you the confidence to push its limits or enjoy the experience.

Since it is, by design, a front-wheel-drive car, the back end plays no real part when driving. The AWD system is rudimentary compared to the Golf R's twin-clutch differential, and even when trail-braking into a corner, it's more likely to wash out the front end than get the tail involved in any antics. The suspension also limits how much angle you can get from the steering before it locks up on you. As rare as it is to say, Mercedes' entrant into this segment is the more exciting driver, and it supplies a cushier ride, too.

2022 2 Series Gran Coupe Interior

2022 2 Series Gran Coupe Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

Verdict: Is the 2022 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe A Good car?

The answer to this question will depend entirely on how familiar you are with other BMW products. Looking at the 2 Series Gran Coupe in isolation, it's a decent, but not exceptional, car. But once you start comparing it to the rest of the BMW lineup, and the 2 Series GC's natural rivals, it quickly becomes apparent how lacking it is.

It's a perfectly pleasant sedan, with a fair amount of passenger space and ample room in the trunk. It also has an adequate powertrain and a well-appointed cabin that work together to deliver a composed and comfortable riding experience. The standard tech offering is comprehensive, with the ability to upgrade and add a few outstanding bits and bobs.

However, the powertrain lacks any real spirit, and the front-wheel drive-based platform lacks dynamic ability, even in M235i form. The automatic transmission is good but not exceptional, and there is no manual option. Furthermore, the steering supplies no meaningful feedback, and handling is adequate at best.

BMW is renowned for creating some of the most enjoyable cars to drive, so the 2 Series Gran Coupe feels like the black sheep of the family. It still carries the status of a BMW, with all the right badges, but enthusiasts would be better off heading to the nearest Mercedes or Audi dealership.

2022 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Comparisons

2022 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe vs BMW 3 Series Sedan

Comparing what is arguably the best, most-balanced BMW sedan with the similarly agreed-upon worst seems like a rather redundant exercise. The starter engine on the 3 Series is already more powerful, developing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft, and it can be paired with an electric motor in the hybrid models to up outputs to 288 hp and 310 lb-ft. However, it's the meaty six-cylinder with 382 hp and 368 lb-ft that makes the 3 Series the brand's champion. It punches above its weight but maintains its fairly compact dimensions for optimal handling. It's also a naturally rear-wheel-driven vehicle, although AWD is available. It has a fair-sized trunk, too, and there is a little more legroom to go around in the front and rear. Overall, the 3 Series is the better of the two sedans, and it's miles ahead in terms of power and fun factor.

2022 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe vs Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

The CLA-Class uses a similar setup to the 2 Series Gran Coupe in that it is a FWD with optional AWD. However, its base powertrain is less impressive at 221 hp, and there is no alternative unless you are willing to upgrade all the way to an AMG. That said, there isn't a true M model for the small BMW, with the M235i being the closest comparison. Still, the Mercedes-Benz is more expensive even with the lower performance figures, and it supplies a lot less room in the trunk at just 11.6 cubic feet. The cabin is immaculate, though, with the traditional opulent style we expect from Mercedes. However, the standard displays are smaller - just seven inches - and the eight-speaker sound system is less impressive than the 2 Series' ten speakers. The CLA is still the more comfortable driver, and it manages to keep up quite well when things get spirited. The CLA is the better driver's machine, while the BMW is more practical.