The first BMW M2 was presented at the end of 2015 as the high-performance mid-range compact, equipped with the 3-liter in-line 6-cylinder capable of delivering 370 horsepower. Today, after 7 years, the new “baby” M Performance of the 2 Series range, gives us a power that even supersedes that of the ancestor M2 F22.
Presented at the end of 2020, the new platform of the 2 Series, signed G42, introduces a new stylistic course for the compact coupé from Munich, heir to the 1 Series Coupé designed by Chris Bangle. After the first 2-liter petrol engine and 184 hp, here is finally the most powerful and sporty version.
The M240i is equipped with the 6-cylinder in-line TwinPower B58, now capable of delivering 374hp and 500nm of torque. Power is managed by the proven ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and put to the ground by the sophisticated xDrive all-wheel drive. The adaptive M suspension electronically adjusts the suspension, constantly adapting to the conditions of the road and the driving style, while the M sports differential optimizes traction by providing great driving stability when changing lanes and exiting corners. With such power, the braking system has obviously also been adjusted. The dark blue M sports brake calipers are equipped with four front and one rear pistons, with larger discs for performance adapted to the high dynamics of the car.
From an aesthetic point of view, the three-volume design is enriched with more angular lines than in the past, underlining the uncompromising sporting aspirations of this version. The increase in length of 10 centimeters makes the side giant, while the front is characterized by the double horizontal kidney and the new triangular air intakes giving a strong personality. The wide selection of M performance sports accessories finally completes the look allowing a wide customization. The interior maintains a clean and simple driver-oriented design. The dashboard houses the BMW live cockpit professional with the 12.3-inch display, while the instrument cluster is digital full-screen with head-up display.
The high temperatures of early August give us the perfect excuse to escape from the plains in search of suitable roads towards the Alps, where to fully explore the true M nature of this 240i.
In the mountain twisties the car literally flies from one corner to another with a huge amount of grip thanks to the xDrive system, without losing that typical oversteering behavior of the BMW M. The steering, in sport plus mode, is solid and precise, with quick insertions that allow you to follow the trajectory without the slightest burr. The effectiveness of the 6-cylinder completes the work, with an engaging soundtrack that accompanies the experience without ever screaming too much but making itself felt in the right measure, underlining its noble Bavarian origin.
The double nature Comfort / Sport makes this M240i a perfect choice for those looking for a car that can be used in easy everyday use but that can give real sports emotions during the weekends or whenever you are in front of an exciting road. Overall very fun then, the M240i is a real “Baby M”, the best you could wish for in this segment, while we wait to discover the new M2.