BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe Review: Style Meets Performance

by reviewzinsight.com · 9 July 2025

BMW has introduced the latest version of the 2-Series Gran Coupe, and it’s already making waves in the compact luxury sedan segment. This second-generation model offers refined styling, more power, updated technology, and a better driving experience. Designed for those who want the practicality of four doors without giving up the sporty appeal of a coupe, the 2025 2-Series Gran Coupe delivers on multiple fronts.

Let’s explore every detail, from design and powertrain to driving dynamics, tech, and overall value.

Stylish Evolution: Sporty Yet Practical

BMW built the new 2-Series Gran Coupe on the UKL2 platform, which it shares with the 1-Series and some MINI models. This setup places the engine at the front and drives either the front or all four wheels. It breaks away from the traditional rear-wheel-drive configuration that BMW sedans are known for, but this choice allows for better interior packaging and efficiency.

Visually, the car looks sharper and more modern than its predecessor. It now features redesigned LED headlights, a sleeker front bumper, and an illuminated kidney grille. The sides carry a coupe-like silhouette, enhanced by a gently sloping roofline and sculpted character lines. At the rear, the Gran Coupe gets slimmer LED taillights and a more pronounced bumper design, giving it a broader, more athletic stance.

BMW subtly added the number “2” within the Hofmeister kink, a small design detail that reflects its model identity while maintaining brand tradition.

Dimensions and Presence

BMW made slight changes to the Gran Coupe’s size. The new model is 0.7 inches longer and 1 inch taller, which improves cabin comfort slightly. It keeps the same width and wheelbase as the previous version, ensuring it stays nimble and city-friendly.

Even in its base form, the Gran Coupe wears sporty 18-inch wheels, while higher trims offer 19-inch options. These larger wheels, combined with more aggressive bumpers on the M Sport package, enhance its performance-oriented look.

Engine Options and Performance

BMW offers two main trims in the 2025 2-Series Gran Coupe lineup:

228 xDrive Gran Coupe: This variant features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.8 seconds.
M235 xDrive Gran Coupe: The more powerful M235 trim boosts the same engine to 312 horsepower. Torque remains the same at 295 lb-ft, but acceleration improves significantly, taking the car from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.3 seconds.

Both engines come paired with a smooth seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. BMW replaced the previous eight-speed automatic with this new gearbox to improve shift response and fuel efficiency. A temporary power-boost feature adds a jolt of acceleration when needed.

Buyers who prefer front-wheel-drive can opt for the upcoming 228 sDrive variant. That version will become available later in 2025.

On-Road Experience: Engaging and Refined

Driving the 2025 Gran Coupe feels engaging and confident. The base model handles daily commuting and spirited drives equally well. The M235 variant brings more excitement with sharper throttle response, firmer suspension, and more athletic handling.

BMW’s Adaptive M Suspension adjusts in real-time based on road conditions and driving style. It offers a good balance between comfort and sportiness. The car stays planted in corners, and the steering feels precise, especially in the M235 trim.

However, the stiffer suspension may feel too firm on rough roads. While the ride quality remains controlled, those who prefer a cushy ride might find the M Sport tuning a bit harsh.

Interior Comfort and Cabin Quality

Inside, the Gran Coupe feels upscale and modern. BMW uses high-quality materials across the dashboard, doors, and seats. The new curved display combines a digital instrument cluster and a large infotainment screen in a single housing, giving the dashboard a clean and high-tech look.

BMW’s latest Operating System 9 powers the infotainment setup. It supports touch, voice, and iDrive knob control. The system responds quickly and integrates features like navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and customizable widgets.

The cabin includes wireless charging, ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. Optional features include a panoramic sunroof, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

Space and Practicality

The front seats offer good legroom and adjustability for both driver and passenger. The seats feel supportive and comfortable during long drives. Rear-seat space remains tight, especially for taller passengers. The sloping roofline cuts into headroom, and the small rear doors make entry and exit a bit tricky.

Trunk capacity stands at around 15 cubic feet, which is impressive for a car of this size. Split-folding rear seats add flexibility for larger items like luggage or sports gear.

Safety and Driver Assistance

BMW includes a full suite of safety features as standard in the Gran Coupe. These include:

Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking
Lane departure warning
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Adaptive cruise control (available on higher trims)
Parking assist with surround-view camera (optional)

These systems work well and enhance driver confidence, especially in urban and highway environments.

Pricing and Variants

BMW prices the 2025 2-Series Gran Coupe competitively within the compact luxury segment. Here’s how the pricing breaks down:

228 sDrive Gran Coupe – Around $39,600 (available later in 2025)
228 xDrive Gran Coupe – $41,600
M235 xDrive Gran Coupe – $49,500

These prices include generous standard equipment. BMW also offers packages for upgraded technology, driver assistance, and interior features, allowing buyers to tailor the car to their needs.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Stylish and modern design
Potent engines with strong acceleration
Dual-clutch transmission enhances driving feel
High-quality interior with advanced tech
Solid trunk space and practical features
Strong safety and driver-assist tech

Cons

Tight rear-seat space
Rear doors feel small and less accessible
Ride may feel firm on rough surfaces
Close pricing to BMW’s larger 3-Series

Final Verdict

BMW has done an excellent job updating the 2-Series Gran Coupe for 2025. It feels more refined, better equipped, and more powerful than before. The styling appeals to younger buyers and those looking for a premium compact car with sporty character.

The car strikes a fine balance between performance and practicality. For solo drivers or couples, it provides enough space and comfort. While rear-seat room remains limited, that trade-off seems acceptable given its sleek coupe-like profile.

The M235 xDrive offers serious performance for its size, making it a fun yet practical daily driver. Meanwhile, the 228 xDrive delivers good value, strong equipment, and solid all-weather performance.

For buyers seeking a premium sedan with the heart of a coupe, the 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe deserves a close look. It blends technology, driving dynamics, and elegant styling into a compact package that feels far more special than most cars in its class.