A New Name, A More Coupe-Like Form

BMW, a brand that embodies its product philosophy with the unique catchphrase 'The Ultimate Driving Machine.' From this brand comes a new model that evokes precisely that character, now arriving in Japan. Its name is the "2 Series Coupe."

While introduced as 'an entirely new series,' it's clear that it also inherits the lineage of the previous '1 Series Coupe.' Furthermore, it's described as carrying on a legacy, with the '2' designation having symbolized sporty driving in compact 2-door cars for over 45 years, a tradition still fondly remembered by fans of the iconic '02 Series.'1 Series Coupe02 Series



Just as the previous '3 Series Coupe' was renamed the '4 Series Coupe', the renaming of this model clearly signals its positioning above the previous 1 Series Coupe and the current 1 Series Hatchback.

This is most evident in its length, which is 100mm longer than the 1 Series Coupe and 70mm longer than the current hatchback's 'M135i'.

With this added "roominess," the 2 Series Coupe achieves a more flowing, coupe-like roofline compared to the 1 Series Coupe, which, depending on the angle, could appear more like a "2-door sedan" due to its sharply raked rear roofline. This is while maintaining a full four-seater package.

Indeed, the change in name from '1' to '2' has also given BMW's smallest coupe a more elegant form.

An Integrated Feeling, As If Your Senses Extend to Every Corner of the Car

The 'M235i' tested here is a model that particularly emphasizes driving performance within the series.

Under its long BMW-style hood lies an inline 6-cylinder engine, still an important icon for the brand. This powerplant, featuring direct injection and turbocharging, produces a maximum output of 326 ps and a peak torque of 450 Nm from its 3-liter displacement.



The first impression, even from just a few dozen meters driven at speeds not exceeding 20 km/h in a vast underground parking lot where the car was initially received, was one of "extraordinary driver-car integration."

For a brand whose motto (or perhaps 'creed'?) is 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' models with a high degree of integration are not uncommon.

However, even among these past experiences, the integration in this model is "truly exceptional!" It offers a novel sensation, as if your own nerves extend to every corner of the car, allowing for effortless control. The fact that this feeling is palpable even at very low speeds means that "even leisurely cruising through the city is pure pleasure."



While the shift throws are a bit long, the manual transmission offers plenty of engagement. The gearing, including the ratios, is well-chosen and impressive. At 6th gear and 100 km/h, the engine turns at around 2,200 rpm, and even from this range, the throttle response is strong. This is more than enough to remind drivers accustomed to 'top gears focused solely on fuel economy' of the joy of spirited driving.

The redline on the tachometer is at 7,000 rpm. And up to about 500 rpm before that, around 6,500 rpm, the engine revs smoothly and with immense power, without hesitation.

Chassis Dynamics That Captivate the Driver

The chassis dynamics, on the other hand, are "delightfully impressive!"

As mentioned, the powertrain, befitting a company whose name literally means 'Bayerische Motoren Werke' (Bavarian Motor Works), is exceptionally refined. And what further enhances the appeal of this exquisite engine is the car's agile handling, which works in concert with the driver to create that sense of "driver-car integration."

The M235i's chassis, which "bends precisely as you intend in any situation," is sure to captivate many drivers. The feeling that each of the four tires is working perfectly, with neither excess nor deficiency, is characteristic of a well-balanced FR layout.

Furthermore, the suspension also provides a surprisingly high level of comfort. While there were moments, particularly at low speeds, where the ride felt a bit choppy, this could be influenced by the run-flat tires fitted to both test cars, which are a no-cost option for the M235i.



Although generally a bit firm, it's unlikely that anyone interested in this model would find fault with it.

Born to bridge the gap between pure 'M models' and 'M Sport' packages, the 'M Performance' model line—The M235i, belonging to this line, possesses a character that is remarkably close to an original M model.

Certainly, its price, significantly exceeding 5 million yen, cannot be described as 'affordable' for the average person.

However, when considering that this model, which clearly delivers pure sports car-level performance, also offers a full four-seater cabin and a practical trunk space, its exceptional versatility is bound to pique the interest of many.

BMW M235i Coupe | BMW M235i Coupe
Body Dimensions | Length 4,470 x Width 1,775 x Height 1,410 mm
Wheelbase | 2,690 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,530 kg (6-speed MT), 1,550 kg (8-speed AT)
Engine | 2,979 cc Inline 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo
Maximum Output | 240 kW (326 ps) / 5,800 rpm
Maximum Torque | 450 Nm (45.9 kgm) / 1,300-4,500 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed Manual / 8-speed Automatic
Drivetrain | FR
Front Suspension | Double-joint Spring Strut
Rear Suspension | 5-link
Tires Front/Rear | 225/40 R18 / 245/35 R18
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc / Ventilated Disc
Fuel Economy (JC08 mode) | 12.0 km/ℓ (6-speed MT), 12.5 km/ℓ (8-speed AT)
0-100 km/h Acceleration (European spec) | 5.0 seconds (6-speed MT), 4.8 seconds (8-speed AT)
Price (incl. consumption tax) | 6.01 million yen (6-speed MT), 6.15 million yen (8-speed AT)

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