When the two series BMW range launched way back in 2014, some eight years ago, it filled a gap in the market that many automotive manufacturers couldn’t. Much like its younger sibling, the one series, it was a rear-wheel-drive sports car. Unlike the one series, the two series is a sleek, modern coupe that was also smaller and lighter than its competitors. I previously discussed the brilliant M2 CS featured in the old two series model, and I might have gone out a bit too much, and the article more or less turned into a love letter… about a car. But I digress; the question now is: Does the new M240i stack up with its predecessor, or is it just a try-hard wannabe?
We’ll need to look at the stats and performance figures to do so. 0-62 mph is easily accomplished in under 4.3 seconds; thanks to x-drive, the 3 litres inline six-cylinder engine churns out 374 bhp and 500 Nm of torque which is enough to keep the BMW moving onto a limited top speed of 155 mph. Though I’m confident, the later M2, M2 Competition and the ultimate M2 CS will go much faster than this. Even still, this semi-skimmed M car will hold its own against the likes of Audi and Mercedes.
Exterior wise, well, this is where it gets a little bit more interesting. It’s got presence, I’ll tell you that, though I’ll leave that down to you to decide whether it’s good or bad presence. Personally, I don’t think the new M240i looks as good as the previous generation; I think the taillights look too small and out of proportion. The front seems a bit rushed and somewhat incomplete, in my opinion; then again, this is an M240i, not an M2, but still, on a car that starts from £39,000, you’d want a bit more out of the looks. Of course, you get the usual features of carbon fibre, splitters and aerodynamics; as much as it pains me to say this, I’d instead choose the Toyota Supra over this. Bear in mind that the Supra and the M240i are essentially the same cars, though the Supra doesn’t have x-drive, and the performance is a fraction slower.
Then we come to the interior, which is without flaw, I must say. BMW has recently done well with their interiors, and I prefer it over Mercedes and Audi; yes, it has a dark theme, but it works and suits the brand very well. The use of exquisite materials such as carbon, leather and aluminium reminds you that you are sitting in a top of the range model.
The M240i cannot be flawed; it’s a great car, a great piece of engineering and transfers that BMW pedigree. However, I wouldn’t buy it. Instead, I’d be patient and wait for the M2 to come out. We know historically the semi-skimmed M cars are great; they’re practical, easy to live with and inconspicuous. If that’s something you want, then great, look no further, but if it’s sheer power, performance, and that authentic BMW driving feel you lust for, then either get the Toyota Supra or, better yet, save your funds and wait for the M2 to come out instead. After all, with BMW, patience is a virtue.
Sources:
Images:
Supercars.net
Carscoops
Bleeding Edge Digital 