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Following in the footsteps of the Z4 sDrive28i I just talked about, let’s check out the changes from the 1-Series to the 2-Series. As with the Z4, turbo inline-six power continued in the M235i, which was effectively a restyled 135i with a N55 with a touch more twist and more weight. Purists may decry that an M badge crept into the lineup but the reality is that if you drive one of these turbocharged small BMWs, and I own a 135i Sport, they’re worthy of the letter. Whether you agree or not doesn’t change the fact that one thing was notably absent from the revised 2-series – the normally aspirated N52 was dropped in favor of the N20 in the ’28’ model. So they were cheaper, right? Well, yes and no. This 2016 228i Coupe we’re looking at today stickered at just shy of $33,000; hardly cheap, but one of the cheaper BMWs you could buy in 2016. However, this particular 228i didn’t leave the dealership in the 30s, thanks to a healthy dose of optional equipment that has left it one of the more unique configurations I’ve seen. Let’s take a look:
A colleague of mine in the Bay Area recently took delivery of a BMW 228i with the Track Handling Package. A long time BMW owner, we both like to talk cars when we get the chance. Given that we work for a large technology professional association, our conversation instantly revolves around the finer technical points of the vehicle, most notably the turbocharged, 2.0 liter engine and how well the 8-speed automatic his 228i is equipped with complements this powerplant. I’ve driven a decent number of new cars over the last two or three years, and some of the automatic gearboxes are quite impressive in their performance, while returning better economy. I feel like something is missing though every time I get behind the wheel of a two-pedal vehicle, but thankfully, BMW still gives 2 series buyers the option of the third pedal. Of all the new cars out there currently, this 228i with the 6-speed manual is speaking to me, especially in Estoril Blue, one of my favorite BMW colors.
