Flash Drive

2015 BMW M235i

June 24, 2015 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2015 BMW M235i xDrive Coupe

The 2015 BMW M235I coupe is aggressively styled to match its powerful performance.
The 2015 BMW M235I coupe is aggressively styled to match its powerful performance.

Engine: 3.0-liter I-6 gas, 320 horsepower 330 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission, full-time all-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 20/City—30/Highway—24/Combined

Base Price: $44,900

As Tested: $45,850

Performance:
Legendary BMW six cylinder engine
Twin Power Turbo
Pulls like a freight train
Driving Dynamic modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport
Paddle shifters
All-wheel-drive xDrive system is seamless

The 2015 BMW M235i coupe has xDrive all-wheel-drive for extra traction in all types of weather.
The 2015 BMW M235i coupe has xDrive all-wheel-drive for extra traction in all types of weather.

Powerful disc brakes
Nimble, crisp handling
A little harsh on freeway expansion strips
Compact size is easy to toss around
Great exhaust note in Sport mode
Auto start/stop feature can be turned off

Comfort:
Great sport seats
Adjustable lower thigh support
Power lumbar support
Stretch-out front legroom
Almost no rear legroom
Good size sunroof
Great, extra thick steering wheel
OK auxiliary steering wheel controls

Driving position and long distance comfort/support are outstanding in the snug, secure sports seats.
Driving position and long distance comfort/support are outstanding in the snug, secure sports seats.

Speedo on left is hard to read

Utility:
Difficult backseat access
Extra small console bin
Big, segmented door bins
Medium glovebox, but manual hogs space
Good size trunk and split seats fold for added utility
Rain sensing wipers

Wow Factors:
Grin inducing fun returns to a compact BMW coupe
Easily lives up to “The Ultimate Driving Machine” BMW motto
Legendary torque monster inline six cylinder engine
Wonderful supportive bucket seats
Sharp, aggressive styling

Whines:
Back seat is more for packages than people

Cargo space and utility are good thanks to the split, fold-down rear seats and pass-through.
Cargo space and utility are good thanks to the split, fold-down rear seats and pass-through.

Low option content as delivered

Bottom Line:
The 2015 BMW M235i xDrive Coupe harkens back to the classic compact BMW sport coupes/sedans that built the company’s reputation in the sixties. The emphasis is on open road fun and finding the long way home. Any practicality deficits are more than compensated by the great driving experience.