The BMW 2 Series has always been a favorite in the subcompact sports car segment thanks to its dynamic performance, sharp handling, and engaging driving experience. Excluding the Gran Coupes, the 2 Series lineup has always included the BMW M2, which gives you the best BMW's M Division in the 2 Series range. The M240i, which only came as an xDrive variant for 2022, sits below the M2, but as you might have noticed, you'll need a healthy wallet to afford either of the two. Luckily, there's the 2022 BMW 230i, which leads the 2 Series range as the base model, offering pure BMW driving pleasure at a more attainable price point. However, the tradeoff for its value is that, like other model years, the 2022 BMW 230i has two fewer cylinders than the M2 and M240i.
A sub-5.0-second 0-60 mph time should certainly convince you to buy a 2022 BMW 230i, but before we get carried away, let's look at the power figures and more performance numbers. For 2022, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four was retuned to produce 255 horsepower and 295 lb.ft, a 7 horsepower and 37 lb.ft increase from the 2021 230i. The 2021 model has a weight advantage though, as the 2022 230i gained roughly 100 pounds, tipping the scales at approximately 3,500 pounds. This could be why the 0-60 mph time and top speed, limited to 155 mph, didn't change. Another downside to the 240i is that BMW never made a 6-speed manual transmission optional like they did with previous model years. Even so, unlike the M240i, it was made as rear-wheel-drive.
For 2022, BMW not only updated the exterior but also refreshed the interior. But the refresh only enhanced the cabin's appeal, giving it more premium material and better tech, lacking in previous model years. The cabin is more cramped than the 2021 230i despite the 2-inch wheelbase increment, especially in the rear seats, which have reduced headroom and legroom. On the other hand, the front seats are pleasingly comfortable and supportive and feature power adjustability. Sadly, BMW didn't include a heating function for them and the steering wheel as standard. These were included in a package that would have set you back $550 would have bought a 2022 BMW 230i new.
The 2022 BMW 230i's visual makeover might either win you over or make you go back to its predecessors. Nonetheless, the revisions extended beyond aesthetics, focusing on enhancing the car's driving capabilities. For example, the front and rear tracks are wider, improving the car's footprint on the road. This helps enhance stability and handling, especially during cornering and high speeds. Additionally, the wider stance gives the car a more aggressive appeal that was lacking in the 2021 230i. As a result of the wider tracks, the front and rear fenders are broader, translating to a more muscular aesthetic accentuated by the sharper body lines.
Sure, there were updates inside the 2022 BMW 230i's cabin, but BMW carried over the old 8.8-inch infotainment display. Fortunately, they upgraded the iDrive system for improved usability and replaced the analog instrument cluster with a new, easier-to-read digital 12.3-inch cluster. However, there's a drawback. According to MotorTrend, the iDrive system can be glitchy due to its overly complex menus. The infotainment display features SiriusXM, Bluetooth phone connectivity, voice activation, real-time traffic display, speed-compensated volume control, and more. Safety and driver assist features included as standard are active blind spot detection, a backup camera, park distance control, lane departure warning with steering correction, and lane-keeping assist, to name a few. These are, of course, in addition to the essentials such as ABS, traction control and the like.
With the 2022 M240i not being available as rear-wheel-drive and the M2 demanding a premium, the BMW 230i is the most tempting choice. Market prices average $30,000, a nearly $10,000 decrease from when the car was new. Given that later model years haven't changed much, it's entirely worth it buying a 2022 BMW 230i. If you're sold on one, Exotic Car Trader's BMW listings feature a variety of BMW 230i units from verified sellers and inspected for your picking.
The 2022 BMW 230i is good, but it isn't perfect. The cabin might feel a touch snug, and the infotainment system can sometimes be finicky. But here's the thing, if you prioritize performance and razor-sharp handling above all else, these drawbacks might fade into the background the moment you hit the gas pedal. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! Looking past the design that makes a statement wherever you go and the prestigious BMW badge, the 2022 BMW 230i is a car built for driving enthusiasts.
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