The new BMW M235i offers owners a taste of a classic car while remaining modern and sporty.
The two-door coupe is agile and relatively affordable for a car that has the BMW name and turbocharged six-cylinder power behind it.
The new car is the first BMW M Performance Automobile to arrive in the U.S., and is even being compared to the classic 2002tii from the '70s. The 2002tii was similar to this car in many respects, and is thought by many to be the quintessential BMW. Even the price is similar - the 2002tii can often be found for around $40,000.
The BMW M235i starts at $44,050 for the base model, which boasts 320 horsepower. Buyers of the car can choose between an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual, with both choices being the same price. If buyers want to upgrade to an all-wheel drive version, however, the M235i xDrive starts at $45,850.
The M Performance Automobile's are different in that they offer a number of sportier characteristics and parts compared to other models. For someone who doesn't necessarily need the "M" in the name, the 228i Coupe, which offers 240-horsepower, can be bought for $33,050.
To further complicate matters, BMW offers an "M Line" option on many of its vehicles that are not part of the M series. This package includes things like M series suspension calibration, M sport steering and a rear spoiler.
The M235i features the M Sport braking system along with 18-inch Michelin Pilot Super Sports tires. It also offers a power moonroof, Xenon headlights and automatic climate control.
The interior of the car features leather seats and a high quality plastic giving the interior a classy appearance.
The car also offers a fuel economy of 22 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
As far as dimensions go, the 2-series coupes have a similar width as the Honda Civic, but are a little bigger all around than BMW's 1-series models.
The car offers an acceleration rate of 0-to-60 in 4.8 seconds, which definitely makes this vehicle a sports car. This will allow drivers to be able to get extra power at a moments notice if necessary.
The car has a limited number of competitors, especially because of the fact that less American's are buying coupe style cars of late. The competitors that are out there are often quite a bit more expensive, with the Audi S5 Coupe costing $53,395, and the 2014 Porsche Cayman coming with a price tag of $53,595.
