2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe M235 xDrive

The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is the second generation of BMW's smallest sedan. It shares its name with regular 2 Series, which is a coupe only. The main appeal of a 2 Series Gran Coupe is that it's a low-priced way to get into a BMW. This year's model also gets a pretty significant overhaul. Highlights include more power and a revamped interior with new technology features.

The 2 Series Gran Coupe will launch in two trims, the 228 xDrive and the M235 xDrive. With 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, the 228 offers higher output — 13 horsepower and 37 lb-ft or torque — than last year's 228i xDrive. The 312-horsepower M235 xDrive is also up 10 horsepower on the outgoing model. The xDrive designation means that they have all-wheel drive, which is a nice bonus for owners living in areas with a lot of wintry weather. Starting midyear, a front-wheel-drive 228 sDrive will be made available. Inside, every 2 Series Gran Coupe gets a new 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, both of which are housed under a single piece of glass. There's a standard Harman Kardon premium sound system.

The Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz CLA are the two other pint-size Germans competing for your attention. The Audi is mildly updated for 2025 and costs a little less to start than the 2 Series Gran Coupe. The CLA has the prestigious halo of Mercedes, but it's more expensive and a bit dated compared to the newer 2 Series Gran Coupe. You might also want to check out BMW's X1 and X2 crossover SUVs. They're similar in size and price to the Gran Coupe and provide a bit more utility.