2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2023 BMW 3 Series

The 2022 BMW 2 Series presented a fresh exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. It maintained a sleek and aerodynamic appearance with a wider kidney grille and upright triangular air curtains. The M240i xDrive Coupe, in particular, showcased a performance-oriented style with shadowy M-type accents and the M Shadowline package. The interior was straightforward and driver-focused, featuring standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with options for a larger display and additional creature comforts. Despite its high-end vibe, some cost-cutting materials were noticeable.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW 3 Series received a subtle yet sporty exterior refresh, retaining its narrow kidney grille and introducing redesigned full-LED headlights. The Shadowline trim became standard, and new paint options like Skyscraper Grey were available. Inside, the 3 Series boasted the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system with a 27.2-inch Curved Display, offering a minimalist yet driver-centric cockpit. The M Sport package added performance-oriented interior finishes, enhancing the overall driving experience. The 3 Series interior was compact but comfortable, with ample room for average-sized adults and a focus on ergonomics and convenience.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series packed a punch with its turbocharged engines. The 230i Coupe featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved the same in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The eight-speed Sport automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, and the M240i xDrive came with performance features like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes. However, the steering feel was criticized for being numb, leading to a somewhat disconnected driving experience.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series carried over its powertrains from previous years, offering a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for the 330i and 330e, and a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six for the M340i. The 330i produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 330e, with its electric motor, offered a combined output of 288 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 5.6-second 0-60 mph time and up to 22 miles of electric-only range. The M340i, featuring a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivered 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. The 3 Series offered a balanced performance with precise steering and a comfortable suspension, making it a versatile all-season performer.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was compact, with limited rear seat space suitable for children or short trips. The front seats were relatively spacious, but the slanted roofline and shorter trunk lid posed challenges for rear headroom and cargo loading. The 2 Series offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats for added versatility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series provided a more spacious interior, with 38.7 inches of front headroom and 42 inches of legroom. Rear occupants enjoyed 37.6 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom, accommodating average-sized adults comfortably. The 3 Series offered 17 cubic feet of cargo capacity, with 40/20/40-split rear seats for flexibility. Standard features included SensaTec upholstery, power-adjustable front sport seats, and a leather steering wheel. The interior was designed for convenience, with intuitive controls and ample storage options.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, featuring the BMW Live Cockpit Plus with iDrive 7. The system offered over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Connectivity options included a WiFi hotspot, USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. An optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the infotainment to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The 2 Series also offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series introduced the advanced BMW iDrive 8 system with a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was intuitive and customizable, with voice-activated controls via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard features included USB-C ports, enhanced Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. Optional upgrades included wireless device charging, a premium Harman Kardon surround sound system, and a wireless 5G hotspot.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured the Active Driving Assistant suite, including active blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, park distance control, and adaptive cruise control. Optional safety features included adaptive front LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 360-degree surround view. The 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard safety features like a rearview camera, LED headlights, and the Active Guard system. The Driving Assistance Package added features like active blind spot detection and lane-departure warning, while the Driving Assistance Professional Package offered semi-autonomous driving systems. The 3 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS for 2023, but the 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick nod.