BMW 4 Series vs BMW 2 Series

The 2022 BMW 4 Series presented a striking appearance with its Sport or M Sport styling options for the base 430i, while the M440i boasted an M Performance design. The model was initially available in rear-wheel drive for the 430i and all-wheel drive for the M440i xDrive, with additional configurations promised later. The Sunset Orange 430i test vehicle was heavily equipped, featuring a Shadowline Package, Premium Package, and more, culminating in a price of $57,295. Despite its aerodynamic design and appealing proportions, the 4 Series was criticized for its oversized grille, which some found garish. The flush-fitting door handles were also a point of contention, as they proved difficult to use. Inside, the 4 Series offered a modern design with asymmetrical geometric shapes, though it lacked some luxury features like power-adjustable seats and a premium sound system, which were only available on the M440i.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series received a new exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The 2 Series was available as a rear-wheel-drive 230i Coupe and an all-wheel-drive M240i xDrive Coupe, with the four-door Gran Coupe also offered in various configurations. The 2 Series Coupe variants were longer, wider, and lower than their predecessors, with a wheelbase extended by two inches. The design featured a wider kidney grille and aerodynamic elements, giving it a leaner appearance. The M240i xDrive Coupe had more performance-oriented styling, including shadowy M-type accents. The interior was straightforward and driver-focused, with standard SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The 2 Series offered a standard 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an optional upgrade to a 10.25-inch display. Despite some use of lower-quality plastics, the interior maintained a high-end vibe.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, despite its weight, felt lively and engaging to drive. The 430i RWD test vehicle featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 294 pound-feet of torque. The engine's responsiveness was notable, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, though lacking a manual option, was praised for its performance. The 430i averaged 25.3 mpg, slightly below the EPA estimate, due to spirited driving. The Dynamic Handling Package enhanced the driving experience, providing excellent balance and control. The 430i's weight distribution contributed to its agility, though the M Sport brakes were noted for their difficulty in achieving smooth stops in traffic.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe offered impressive performance for its size. The 230i Coupe's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivered 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive's 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six produced 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i reached 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, with the M240i xDrive achieving it in 4.1 seconds. Both models featured an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, with paddle shifters and Sport Plus mode for enhanced driving dynamics. The M240i xDrive came standard with performance features like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes, while the 230i could be optioned with similar features. Despite their speed and control, the 2 Series models were criticized for a lack of engagement, with the steering feel described as numb.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, while more practical than its two-door counterparts, was not particularly spacious. The low stance and small doors made entry and exit challenging, especially for rear passengers. The test vehicle lacked power-adjustable front seats, which was surprising given its price. The Gran Coupe's hatchback design offered practicality, with a 16.6 cubic foot trunk expandable to 45.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, it was not as practical as the discontinued 3 Series Sports Wagon.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was compact, with rear seats best suited for children or short trips. The coupe's design, while attractive, limited rear headroom and trunk space. The trunk offered 10 cubic feet of cargo space, with the rear seats providing additional flexibility. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, with a layout similar to other new BMW models.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series featured the iDrive 7 infotainment system, part of the standard Live Cockpit Professional setup. This included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a cloud-based navigation system, and various connected services. The standard 10-speaker sound system was adequate, but a premium Harman Kardon system was only available on the M440i.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, with an optional upgrade to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The iDrive 7 system included cloud-based navigation, real-time traffic updates, and connected services. The 2 Series also offered a WiFi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a BMW Digital Key. The standard audio system featured 10 speakers, with an optional Harman Kardon system available.

The 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe included BMW Assist eCall, SOS Emergency Request, and an enhanced automatic collision notification system. The Active Driving Assistant suite was standard, offering forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The M440i offered additional safety features through the Driving Assistance Professional Package, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series featured the Active Driving Assistant suite, with standard blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. Both the 230i and M240i xDrive could be optioned with adaptive LED headlights, a 360-degree surround view, and the BMW Drive Recorder. The 2 Series had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of review.