2024 BMW 2 Series: A Comprehensive Guide On Features, Specs, and Prices

The BMW 2 Series might be the entry-level model to BMW’s car lineup, but it’s actually more of a unique proposition on the market than you realize. As of 2024, the 2 Series is the only remaining two-door compact luxury car left on the market, with the exception of the C-Class coupe, which actually gives the brand an interesting and competitive edge.

The second-generation G42 2 Series has been on the market since 2022, however, a technology update in 2023 means that the 2024 model is about as fresh as you can get without waiting for an all-new generation. In terms of trim offerings, the 2 Series is actually quite simple with only two trims available below the iconic M2.

All of this said, if you’re in the market for a compact luxury car and happen to be considering the 2 Series, this guide will tell you all you need to know about it and some of its potential competitors.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Mazda, Fueleconomy.gov, NHTSA, and IIHS.

What’s New For 2024

With the second generation just launching for the 2022 model year, there have been minimal changes since then. In 2023, BMW did add the new curved digital gauge cluster. The 2 Series carries over unchanged for 2024 and will likely continue as it is, until its mid-cycle update that may happen in 2026 or 2027.

2024 Highlights

• Unique and aggressive styling
• Available AWD
• Sports seats as standard
• Gorgeous instrument cluster and infotainment system
• Head-turning color pallet
• Spacious cabin for a compact coupe

Exterior Dimensions

(Source: BMW)

Engine Specifications And Performance

Leaving the bonkers BMW M2 aside, the 2 Series coupe is available in a couple of different configurations. In 230i form, you get a 2.0-liter, turbocharged inline-four that dishes out a respectable 255 horsepower. If you jump up to the M240i, which is essentially a bridge between the base model and the M2, you’ll get a 3.0-liter inline-six that puts out 382 horsepower.

This model is perfect for those who want extra performance but don’t want to pay hardcore BMW M prices or need all the extra power that comes with a full-fledged M model. The 230i and M240i both come with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission, and both can be operated manual via the sport and manual shift modes.

Regardless of the model, you can opt for BMW’s xDrive AWD system at a $2,000 premium. In terms of performance, the base model will get you to 60 mph in 5.3-5.5 seconds while the M240i drops those numbers to 4.1-4.5 seconds, with the AWD system being the faster option on both models.

If you’re not interested in going above the base model but want to get the most out of the M230i, you can opt for the M sport and Dynamic handling packages. The packages include a number of tuned goodies like 19-inch wheels with sport tires, an upgraded steering system, electronic rear differential, and a sport suspension system.

These packages are generally known to drastically improve the driving dynamic and driver engagement of even the base model, so despite the price, they are generally worth it if you’re looking for something more than a daily driver.

Performance Specifications

(Source: BMW)

Fuel Economy

One of the bigger downsides to performance coupes is, generally, fuel economy, but the 2 Series doesn’t do as bad as you might think. With RWD, the base 230i manages as much as 25 mpg on the highway and 30 mph combined. With AWD, however, those figures drop to 33 and 28 mpg, respectively.

The M240i, despite the larger engine and higher power output does nearly as well with the RWD model garnering as much as 32 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg combined. Interestingly enough, the M240i xDrive manages the same fuel economy, so there’s no real loss if you want to put power down with all fours.

(Source: EPA)

Interior Technology And Comfort

Best Interior Features Of The BMW 2 Series

• Somewhat minimalist interior design
• Modern and responsive infotainment system
• Available digital gauge cluster
• Supportive front seats
• Front passenger space

The BMW 2 Series 230i comes pretty well equipped from the factory with a standard 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, steering wheel controls, Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10-speaker audio system.

There is, however, plenty of room to upgrade. You can opt for a larger 10.3-inch infotainment display and there’s even a 14-speaker audio system from Harman Kardon available that is rated at 464 Watts. The instrument cluster is analog by default, however, that gorgeous digital instrument cluster is practically a must-have option as is the head-up display.

In terms of space, this generation 2 Series is larger than the first-gen model. It even has a 2.0-inch longer wheelbase, but despite this, the rear seat isn’t the most spacious place to be.

Full-grown adults won’t find themselves too happy in the rear if they are there for too long and, oddly enough, there’s even less legroom and headroom than the first-gen model. This, of course, comes courtesy of the sportier roofline but should be something to keep in mind.

Interior Dimensions

(Source: BMW)

Safety And Reliability

With even mainstream brands providing nearly all available active and passive safety systems as standard equipment, it should be no surprise that and entry-level luxury vehicle like the BMW 2 Series comes with a full suite of safety and driver assistance features plus some optional extras if you want even more. The list includes but is not limited to:

• Highway Assistant
• Distance Control and Steering Assist
• Lane Change Assist
• Active Blind Spot Detection
• Forward Collision Mitigation
• Lane-Keep Assist
• Drive Recorder
• High Beam Assist
• Emergency Stop Assist
• Auto Park Assist (when properly equipped)
• Backup Assist (when properly equipped)
• Maneuver Assist (when properly equipped)
• Remote Control Parking (when properly equipped)
• Anti-theft Recorder (when properly equipped)

BMW 2 Series IIHS And NHTSA Safety Evaluations

Despite its compact size, the IIHS gave the 2 Series good safety ratings back in 2021, though, it was not given any Top Safety Pick awards. It has not been rated since the first year of the current generation. In 2021, it received “Good” ratings (the best you can get) across the board, with the only exception being the headlights, which received “Acceptable” and “Marginal” ratings depending on the equipment level of the trim.

The NHTSA has not rated the 2024 BMW 2 Series or any other model year of the second-generation model. There have been no complaints, but there has been one recall for the 2024 model year in regard to an improperly tightened steering gear, though this only affected a total of 201 units, and you can check with any dealership to ensure that the vehicle you’re considering is not affected or if it was affected that the problem has been rectified.

IIHS Crash Testing

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

• Recalls (NHTSA): 1 – Improperly tightened steering gear (201 models affected)
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 0
• Awards: None

2024 BMW 2 Series Versus Its Competitors

The BMW 2 Series Coupe is pretty unique in that it’s the only two-door luxury coupe that you can currently find on the market with the exception of the C-Class Coupe. So, with such a limited selection of coupes, the competitive nature will really come down to price and performance vs. practicality and passenger convenience. For the sake of this comparison, and to avoid reaching too far outside the box, we’ll be comparing the 2 Series to the Audi A3 and the Mercedes C-Class Coupe.

How The BMW 2 Series Compares To the Audi A3

• 	2024 Audi A3	2024 BMW 2 Series Coupe
  Model	2024 Audi A3	BMW 2 Series Coupe
  Engine:	2.0-Liter Inline-Four	2.0-Liter I4 | 3.0-Liter I6
  Torque	221 LB-FT	295 – 369 LB-FT
  Transmission	Seven-Speed DCT	8-Speet Automatic
  Driveline	FWD | AWD	FWD | AWD
  MSRP	$25,400 – $41,000	$38,800 – $51,700
  0-60 MPH	6.6 Seconds	4.1 – 5.5 Seconds
  Horsepower	201 HP	255 – 382 HP

The most obvious difference between the 2 Series and the Audi A3 is the addition of two extra doors and the obvious practicality those two extra doors bring to the table. The Audi A3 is the German brand’s smallest model, though like the 2 Series, it brings that premium feel and modern technology that you just don’t find in the mainstream brands.

There is only one engine available unless you step up to the S or RS line, and that’s a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that’s good for 201 horsepower. A dreamy seven-speed dual-clutch transmission handles shifting duties with grace, and if you’re willing to pony up a little extra you can have a pretty great AWD system that works wonders in areas where sometimes you need a little extra traction.

The A3 is available in two different trims: Premium and Premium Plus. The former starts out at $35,400 and the latter ups the ante to $39,000. Audi’s Quattro AWD system will add $2,000 to your final bill. Stanadrd features from the start include 17-inch wheels, eight-way power seats, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, a Panoramic roof, and you even get LED headlights as standard.

The Premium Plus brings memory seats, wireless phone charging, advanced key, part assist, and adaptive cruise control into the mix. Fuel economy isn’t bad, either, with FWD models offering up to 32 mpg combined. according to the EPA

How The BMW 2 Series Compares To The Mercedes C-Class Coupe

• 	2024 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe	2024 BMW 2 Series Coupe
  Model	Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe	BMW 2 Series Coupe
  Engine:	2.0-Liter Inline-Four	2.0-Liter I4 | 3.0-Liter I6
  Torque	273 LB-FT	295 – 369 LB-FT
  Transmission	9-Speed Automatic	8-Speet Automatic
  Driveline	RWD	FWD | AWD
  MSRP	$49,550 – $51,550	$38,800 – $51,700
  0-60 MPH	5.9 Seconds	4.1 – 5.5 Seconds
  Horsepower	255 HP	255 – 382 HP

Mercedes continues to be the only luxury brand that maintains a compact luxury coupe in its lineup, though, in a way, the base models cater to a slightly different client base. Where models like the 2 Series and even Audi A3 are aggressive and sporty looking, the C-Class still plays the role of being more of an executive coupe. That’s not to say it’s not sporty in its own way, but its overall exterior design is more toned down and less in your face – almost like it’s a little more elegant.

With that said, the C-Class coupe is only available in one trim level, unless you want to step up into the AMG line of vehicles that push the entry-level price well beyond what you’ll pay for a 2 Series. I’m talking about the C 300 Coupe, and it comes with a basic, turbocharged, 2.0-liter inline-four that produces a respectable 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.

According to Mercedes, this model can his 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, so it’s not exactly a slouch either despite the very premium and luxury ambiance of the cabin. The C 300 doesn’t come cheap, with a starting price of $49,550 for RWD or $51,550 for the 4MATIC AWD model.

How Much Does The BMW 2 Series Cost

The BMW 2 Series is actually quite affordable with the entry-level model starting a t just $38,800. If you want the xDrive AWD system, you’ll have to add on an extra $2,000, bringing the total up to $40,800.

The must have design accessory, the M Sport package, will add another $3,350 to the sticker price. Some paint options will add on $650 extra, while a range of 19-inch wheel designs also come at a $600 premium. If you want to go with the various leather options for the interior, you’ll need to pay an extra $1,500.

There are also five different optional packages to consider:

• Convenience: $1,500
• Premium: $3,350
• Dynamic Handling Package: $1,900
• Shadowline Package: $850
• Parking Assistance Package: $700

Needless to say, your $40,000 2 Series can easily cross into $50,000 territory, though it would be hard to argue against the Dynamic handling package or the M Sport package, as they do push the driving experience to the next level.

2024 BMW 2 Series Price

(Source: BMW)

Is It Worth Buying A BMW 2 Series

As long as you don’t mind a compact car with a compact interior, the BMW 2 Series is, arguably, one of the best and most affordable ways to get into a true luxury sports car that really doesn’t compromise.

Sure, you won’t have as much elbow room as you will in larger cars, but you get great performance, impressive handling, and a car that will serve great as a daily driver and a weekend toy. There’s even plenty of room for upgrades and personalization after purchase, so it’s really hard to go wrong with the 2 Series as long as it’s within your budget.