BMW 220i Coupe 2017 Review

What’s it all about?
BMWs updated 2 Series range is comprised of six models spanning three body shapes: Coupe, Convertible and Touring.

The range offers a mix of engines (three, four and six-cylinder), matched to automatic transmissions (six or eight-speed sports), with a six-speed manual a no-cost option.

Each model tops out with its own M-badged performance hero. The updated line-up sees petrol engines only, with the slow selling 220d now discontinued. The 220i on test is the coupe entry point and introduces a new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is up on power (up 5kW/20Nm) while promising greater efficiency than its carried-over nameplate predecessor.

How much will it cost?

Updates to the BMW 220i include bi-xenon headlights, headlight washer system, anti-dazzle auto-fold side mirrors with auto parking function, driving assistant, updated instrument cluster and interior lights package.

Now priced from $51,300 (plus on-road costs), those updates represent a $2400 price hike. Costly options are a given from BMW and our test vehicle did not escape, featuring metallic paint ($1142), Luxury Line package ($1000), Comfort package ($2400), 18-inch alloys ($1192) and a glass sunroof ($2000), pushing the end price to $59,034.

In standard form it misses a few desirables, such as front parking sensors (rear only), adaptive headlights and lumbar support. But it does feature cruise control with braking function, rear-view camera, sat-nav and a full suite of airbags as standard.

You drive away with a three-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, three-year roadside assistance and BMWs condition-based service schedule.

Why should I buy it?

An affordable sports coupe that oozes sophistication… what’s not to like? And with 135kW/270Nm at the ready, the 220i is proper feisty.

Its 0-100km/h time of 7.2sec proves ample form. The eight-speed auto is decisive and smooth, but paddle shifts (as standard) lift the experience to ‘good fun’ territory. The steering is pinpoint accurate and offers excellent feedback. It makes cornering a joy.

The suspension is firm and overall handling almost feels a little tightly wound, but the pay off is a great sense of connection at the wheel and genuine sure-footedness.
The value is undeniable, but the options pose a potential deal breaker.

When is it available in Australia?

The updated BMW 2 Series range is available now.

Who will it appeal to?
Practicalities aside, for now, the 220i’s solid on-road dynamics, matched with BMW’s ever-conservative and mature styling speaks volumes.

OK, so there’s only room for four, and getting passengers into the second row can prove challenging – and headroom is tight. Large doors create optimal access, but heavy wide-swinging doors with poorly positioned hand grabs scream collateral damage. It was love, hate in action.

The 220i’s performance is not going to set your world on fire, but its eager spirit should not be scoffed at – there’s plenty of fun at the wheel and few silhouettes look as good at this price point.

Two-door, strictly four-seaters aren’t the most flexible arrangements on offer, but 60:40 split fold seating at least expands your luggage capacity (280 to 335 litres). It’ll even tow 1500kg (braked), if you’re that way inclined.

Where does it fit?
The small car segment over $40k is not a huge market offering, but several good alternatives exist, such as Audi’s more versatile (four door) A3 line-up or Mercedes-Benz’s lower output CLA200, not to mention BMW’s own accomplished 1 Series underlings… but few are true equals.

More affable than many a sports coupe, the BMW 220i is made for everyday driving and its four-occupant capability means its flexible when need be.

So, what do we think?

A dashing silhouette, refined handling and few compromises – the BMW 220i Coupe is an easy sell in a complex segment offering.

Good looks and impeccable manners offend nobody. Sold.

2017 BMW 220i Coupe pricing and specifications:

Price: $51,300 (plus on-road costs)

Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 135kW/270Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

Fuel: 5.8L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 133g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

Related reading:
>> BMW M240i 2017 review
>> BMW M240i 2017 video review