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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
Overview
As one of the least expensive ways to join the BMW owners club, the 2021 2-series Gran Coupe seeks to deliver a luxury-car experience, and it mostly succeeds.
The GC challenges other scaled-down premium four-doors such as the Audi A3 and the 2020 Mercedes-Benz A-class. A turbocharged four-cylinder engine is found under the hood, but it's available in two states of tune: with 228 horsepower in the 228i and with 301 horses in the M235i.
The latter delivers blistering acceleration, but the former is no slouch. The 2-series Gran Coupe's ride is refined, but its handling isn't as sharp as I'd expect from a car with the BMW badge.
Unlike the rear-drive-based 2-series coupe and convertible, the four-door 2-series Gran Coupe comes off a front-drive platform borrowed from BMW's sister brand, Mini, and it can't seem to hide that fact.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
What's New for 2021?
Like many other 2021 BMW models, the 2-series Gran Coupe receives SiriusXM satellite radio as standard, and Android Auto compatibility is finally on the spec sheet.
The once optional 10.3-inch infotainment and gauge-cluster screens are now standard, same goes for the navigation system with real-time traffic updates. Plus, the new Driver Assistance package provides adaptive cruise control and an automatic parking feature.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Driving enthusiasts will likely yearn for the hotter M235i model, but for the majority of drivers, the base 228i Gran Coupe will surely satisfy. I'd skip most options, but adding the Convenience package—keyless entry, driver's-side lumbar support, and a panoramic sunroof—seems like a no-brainer.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Both 2-series Gran Coupe models come with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The one in the 228i makes 228 horsepower, whereas the M235i's produces 301 horses.
All-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission are standard across the line. Around town, the 228i feels sprightly and eager, it does a nice 5.1-second run to 60 mph. But a short test drive in the M235i will push that car from your mind.
The M235i makes the entry-level model feel tame, it blasts to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. That's quicker than the X2 M35i SUV, which has the same power-train.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
Fuel Economy
The EPA rates the 228i xDrive Gran Coupe for 23 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined. The more powerful M235i model earns nearly the same ratings as the 228i: 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Cabin styling matches that of modern BMWs like the 2021 3-series sedan and the 2020 X3 SUV.
It's a simple driver-focused design featuring ambient interior lighting that illuminates the dashboard and door panels.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
BMW claims that rear-seat legroom is nearly the same as the larger 3-series sedan's, but overall the cabin feels snug for both front- and rear-seat passengers.
The 2-series Gran Coupe's small cargo area is good enough for grocery runs and weekend road trips, and the back row folds down to accommodate bulkier cargo.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
Infotainment and Connectivity
The driver faces a 10.3-inch reconfigurable digital gauge display and a dashboard-mounted 10.3-inch touchscreen. The latter is angled slightly toward the driver for ease of use.
Navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio come standard, but a wireless smartphone-charging pad and Harman/Kardon stereo system will cost extra. And BMW provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility at no charge.
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| 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe |
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have crash-tested the 2-series Gran Coupe at the time of writing this post. BMW's Active Driving Assistant, which includes a suite of driver-assistance features to help reduce the likelihood of an accident, comes standard.
Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross-traffic alert
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
BMW offers a warranty package that matches what its European rivals provide, and then it sweetens the deal with three full years of complimentary scheduled maintenance. Audi offers just one year of included service visits, and Mercedes-Benz, none.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Power-train warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles.
2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe
