It’s full steam ahead with BMW’s new 2-series lineup, led by the impressive new 2022 BMW M240i xDrive Coupe. First impression came down to that colour – Thundernight Metallic. Throughout the week that purple-like colour garnered more than a handful of looks from pedestrians at intersections or turning onto side streets.
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But the engine – a turbocharged, 6 cylinder, 3 litre, the M Series generates 382 of horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque – was the difference-maker during a week-long drive. The car will hit a top speed of 255 km/h (155 mph), not that you’ll be looking to hit that. Acceleration was pretty throaty – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds (0 to 60 mpg in 4.1 seconds). So that was a surprise.
New BMW M240i xDrive: Smooth as silk
The car handles smooth, and takes those sharp turns that make you feel you are in a sports car. Those who live in the city will like it, since it’s easy to park and is quite nimble through downtown traffic. The price was pretty nimble too – $68,595 as tested, a base MSRP of $56,950. You get a lot for that: A premium enhanced package with items like glass sunroof, lumbar support, head-up display, adaptive full LED headlights and Harman/Kardon sound system.
Optional equipment also includes the Adaptive M Sport Suspension, for those looking to scratch a sportier car drive experience itch, and that black Vernasca leather with blue contrast stitching interior was nice. Adaptive M suspension dampers actually bring you three drive modes – Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus. And what about fuel efficiency? Not bad – the EPA estimates 26 MPG combined (23 MPG city, 32 MPG highway), annual fuel cost of $3,300. The wheelbase is a little longer and the body is wider compared with the predecessor model. Loved the newly designed BVMW kidney grille, from an aesthetics perspective.
The M Series (“M” is for Motorsport), introduced nearly 50 years ago to support BMW’s auto racing ambitions, remains a splendid series, with some of the top high-performance luxury cars out on the road now. The 2022 BMW M240i xDrive is at the lower end of that spectrum, perhaps a first step as you make your way up the M ladder.
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Images: BMW/Mark Keast
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