Is the BMW 2 Series good for new drivers? Here’s our verdict.

By Farzana Chaumoo

Being a new driver and buying your first car is truly a special occasion, we take a look at four reasons why the BMW 2 Series is a good car for the fortunate new drivers who can afford them as a first car.

BMW's 2 Series is a popular contestant in the entry-level luxury sport category. Much like the other vehicles in its segment, it also suffers from the tiny backseat, however, it’s packed with high-tech features and an astonishing amount of power.

 Fuel-efficient engine

The 2 Series models are available as a coupé or a convertible (aka cabriolet). New cars will have their engines mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission (a manual was available in most derivatives until its recent facelift), paired with standard rear-wheel drive.

In the line-up, and what we recommend for either the road newbie or a BMW newbie, is the 2.0-litre turbo 220d/220i that produces 140 kW/135 kW and torque of 400 Nm/270 Nm respectively. Claimed average fuel consumption figures are 4.1 l/100km and 5.5 l/100km respectively.

The 220 model can be had in a petrol or diesel derivative differentiated by the suffix “i” or “d”. Both engines perform pretty well and in pure BMW fashion you can expect fast acceleration, confident braking, and nimble handling. There is also a superb lightness behind the wheel.

The 230i is also powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged, in-line four-cylinder petrol engine that puts out 185 kW (248 horsepower) @ 5200 rpm and 350 Nm of torque from 1450 - 4800 rpm. Claimed average fuel consumption for the 230i is 5.7 l/100km.

The M240i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre, inline six-cylinder petrol engine that puts out 250 kW (335 horsepower) @ 5500 rpm and 500 Nm of torque from 1520 - 4500 rpm. The M240i has a claimed average fuel consumption of 7.1 l/100km.

These high-powered engines produce rapid acceleration and make the 2 Series one of the quickest vehicles in its market segment.

Effortless steering and handling

As suggested, the 220i is where you should be looking for a newbie. Ané Theron covered more details on what's it like living with the BMW 220i Convertible. Also, there are several drive modes, but the Comfort mode is where you should leave it when cruising and/or commuting. 

As we all know, the heart and soul of any BMW lives in the Sport mode (cue misbehaviour smirk). With the Sport mode, a little more weight is added to the steering, there are quicker gear changes and an enhanced level of crispness to the throttle.

Across the board though, steering and handling on the BMW 2 Series is both smooth and responsive. You won’t encounter much body roll, as it can handle a sharp turn with much grace. The Sport Plus mode will add further stiffness to the steering and suspension (if the car is fitted with adaptive dampers) and heightens the vehicle's stability control for a more joyful ride.

Makes a great ‘Daily’

Even though the 2 Series is seen as a sports car, it manages perfectly well as a daily vehicle too. Navigating through the city or trying to park in a tight space should prove to be no hassle. When in the city, the best driving modes are the Eco Pro or Comfort mode as this softens up the suspension to optimize the car’s compliance over potholes and expansion joints.

Comfort

If maximum comfort is what you’re after, especially if you often travel with three passengers, the 3 Series would be better suited for you, as the 2 Series beauties are very compact automobiles – meaning there is very limited passenger and cargo space, as well as a tight-fitting interior.

Rear passenger space is extremely tight, especially for bigger-sized and tall passengers. Rear passengers will also find getting in and out of the car a bit tricky. All 2 Series models can, however, accommodate four passengers. But rather than overloading your car, drive with one passenger, preferably in the front seat.

The actual seats are rather comfortable and front seats are highly adjustable. Even short drivers would have no problem in finding a good driving position. The convertibles may not be as refined as the coupés in terms of wind and external sound intrusion, but the ride itself in any 2 Series vehicle is smooth and comfortable.

Storage in the 2 Series is great. There are plenty of nicely-sized storage pockets all around the cabin and the boot space is, surprisingly, larger than some competitors.

Verdict

The 2 Series models are well crafted and refined and would serve as a good car for newbies – but that’s if you can afford it. It offers a good blend of practicality with sportiness and its fuel economy figures are great too. You also get an engaging drive!

If you’re looking for more vehicle options, then consider Safest small cars for new drivers